Luxurious Saffron Chicken Rice (Arroz Con Pollo)
A decadently rich and delicious saffron infused rice cooked with chicken, shrimp, roasted red peppers and fresh herbs makes this a week night treat. Buon Provecho!
Equipment
- Large ovenproof pan with tight fitting lid
Ingredients
- 2 cups (400 g) long grain rice, washed and drained
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin on
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 2-3 Tbsp. Olive Oil, for pan
- 6 cloves Garlic, coarsely chopped
- 1 large Onion, coarsely chopped
- 3 large roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1 tsp saffron
- 3 cups (750 ml) Chicken Broth, homemade or store bought
- 4 sprigs fresh oregano or herb of your choice
- 3 large ripe fresh tomatoes, chopped, or 1 can diced tomatoes
- 12 large shrimp, tail-on (optional)
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Set ovenproof large pan on stovetop and heat on low. Wash rice until water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken, pat dry. Season generously with salt and fresh cracked black pepper on both sides. Turn up heat on pan to medium high and add olive oil. Swirl oil gently to coat bottom of pan. When ready, add chicken to pan and sear till lightly brown on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to plate.
- Lower heat and add chopped garlic, onions, and sliced roasted red peppers to pan. Cook till fragrant and soft, about 4-5 minutes. Then add the drained rice and saffron. Stir thoroughly to coat the rice with mixture. Add chicken broth and bring to boil. Add the chicken pieces plus all dripping to the pan. Arrange so that there are space between the chicken. Top evenly with fresh oregano. Cover with lid and put the entire thing into the preheated oven. Cook for 40-45 minutes. Remove lid and stir in the tomatoes and shrimp. Cover and cook for another 10-15 minutes until the rice has absorbed most of the broth. When ready, remove from oven, garnish with more fresh herb if desired. Your luxurious arroz con pollo is ready!
Notes
- Use the best saffron threads for this dish to obtain maximum flavor. Even though it's pricey, you'll only need a very small amount to add richer, bolder flavor to any recipe.
- Use fire charred or roasted red peppers for depth. The smokiness adds another layer to the dish.
- If you prefer, substitute chicken thighs with breasts halves.