Arroz Con Pollo Verde is a vibrant one-pan meal bursting with flavors, featuring chicken, rice, and fresh veggies. This dish embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine, bringing together tender chicken thighs and aromatic herbs in a delightful green sauce. In under an hour, you can create a comforting dinner that will wow your family and friends. Let’s dive into the magic of this traditional dish!

Why You’ll Love This Arroz Con Pollo Verde
This green chicken rice dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why it’s a must-try:
- It’s a complete meal cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Rich in flavors from the fresh cilantro and jalapeño, delivering a delightful kick.
- Healthy and gluten-free, perfect for those watching their diet.
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
- Quick to prepare, taking only about 45 minutes from start to finish.
- Ideal for meal prep and great for leftovers.
This arroz con pollo recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, showcasing the beauty of Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients for Arroz Con Pollo Verde
Gather these items:
- 4 pieces Chicken Thighs
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 1 medium Onion (Yellow/White)
- 1 medium Jalapeño
- 1 cup Cilantro
- 1 lime Lime Juice
- 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1.5 cups White Basmati Rice
- 2 medium Carrots
- 1 medium Red Bell Pepper
- 1 cup Garnishes (Cilantro, Avocado, Jalapeño slices, Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream)
How to Make Arroz Con Pollo Verde Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Prepare the Green Sauce: Blend together garlic, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 2: Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then cook them until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Step 3: Sauté Vegetables: Add sliced carrots and red bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients: Pour the green sauce into the skillet. Simmer, then stir in the white basmati rice, ensuring it’s coated. Nestle the browned chicken on top.
- Step 5: Simmer: Cover the skillet and reduce heat. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Step 6: Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, jalapeño, and yogurt to enjoy your meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Arroz Con Pollo Verde
Keep these in mind:
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Let the chicken rest after browning for juiciness.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeño.
- This dish is perfect for making ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld.
Best Ways to Serve Arroz Con Pollo Verde
Here are some great ideas:
- Pair it with a fresh avocado salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with warm corn tortillas to scoop up the delicious rice.
- Top with extra cilantro or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
How to Store and Reheat Arroz Con Pollo Verde
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the moisture. This is a perfect one-pot green chicken rice meal for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions About Arroz Con Pollo Verde
What is arroz con pollo verde?
Arroz Con Pollo Verde is a flavorful Mexican dish that combines chicken, rice, and a vibrant green sauce made from fresh herbs and vegetables. It’s a delightful twist on the traditional chicken and rice dish.
Can I make arroz con pollo verde ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare arroz con pollo verde in advance. Just follow the recipe, cool it down, and store it in the fridge. It reheats wonderfully!
How do I avoid common mistakes with arroz con pollo verde?
To avoid mistakes, ensure the chicken is browned well for flavor, and don’t rush the simmering process. This allows the rice to absorb all the delicious flavors from the green sauce.
Variations of Arroz Con Pollo Verde You Can Try
For a fun twist on this traditional dish, consider these variations:
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
- Experiment with different greens in the sauce like spinach or parsley for unique flavors.
Each variation maintains the essence of authentic arroz con pollo verde while offering a fresh take on this beloved dish.
For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Tuscan Scallops Recipe or try making Baked Lemon Rosemary Chicken. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, our One Pan Cheesy Ranch is a great option!
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Delicious Arroz Con Pollo Verde: 5 Steps to Perfection
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Arroz con Pollo Verde is a vibrant one-pan meal bursting with flavors, featuring chicken, rice, and fresh veggies.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken Thighs
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 1 medium Onion (Yellow/White)
- 1 medium Jalapeño
- 1 cup Cilantro
- 1 lime Lime Juice
- 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1.5 cups White Basmati Rice
- 2 medium Carrots
- 1 medium Red Bell Pepper
- 1 cup Garnishes (Cilantro, Avocado, Jalapeño slices, Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream)
Instructions
- Prepare the Green Sauce: Blend together garlic, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then cook them until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add sliced carrots and red bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the green sauce into the skillet. Simmer, then stir in the white basmati rice, ensuring it’s coated. Nestle the browned chicken on top.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet and reduce heat. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, jalapeño, and yogurt to enjoy your meal.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg