Easy Arroz con Pollo Dish

This easy Arroz con Pollo brings together tender seasoned chicken, colorful bell peppers, and flavorful rice all topped with creamy queso. It’s a true Mexican comfort dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying and full of flavor without a lot of fuss. The combination of smoky chipotle, savory fajita seasoning, and melty cheese makes every bite cozy and delicious.

I first made this recipe on a rainy evening when I craved something warm and comforting. Now it’s a regular request at our table because it reminds us of cozy Mexican dinners out but made with my own twist.

Ingredients

• Red and green bell peppers: fresh and crisp for sweetness and color essential for that classic Arroz con Pollo taste
• Yellow onion: adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed
• Chicken breast or tenders: depending on your preference tender and protein packed you can swap for boneless skinless thighs for more juiciness
• Queso sauce: creamy and rich topping that ties the dish together look for refrigerated or shelf stable varieties in the Mexican section or make your own
• Green chiles: add a mild heat and tangy flavor optional but recommended for authenticity
• Chipotle sauce: smoky with a hint of spice can be found canned in the Mexican food aisle or substitute with a mild taco sauce for less heat
• Fajita seasoning: a blend of spices that brings smoky earthy Mexican flavors choose store bought or homemade if you want to control the salt and spice level
• Spanishstyle rice: provides the savory starchy base available pre made or make your own with tomato base and seasonings
• Chopped cilantro: brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes totally optional depending on your taste

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables:

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the sliced red and green bell peppers along with diced yellow onion and a splash of avocado oil. Cook for about 6 minutes stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened and just beginning to caramelize which builds a rich flavor foundation.

Cook the Chicken:

Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet with the sautéed peppers and onions. Cook for 4 to 7 minutes stirring occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. This ensures the meat stays juicy and tender.

Add the Sauce and Seasonings:

Pour in one eighth of a cup of queso sauce followed by the green chiles, chipotle sauce, and fajita seasoning. Stir everything carefully until all the ingredients are combined well so the flavors marry beautifully.

Serve over Rice with Toppings:

Spoon the chicken and veggie mixture over a bed of warm Spanishstyle rice. Drizzle the remaining queso sauce on top according to how creamy you want it. Finish by sprinkling chopped cilantro for a fresh herbal contrast if you like.

My favorite part is the combination of smoky chipotle and creamy queso. I remember making this on a busy weeknight and how the aroma of spices filled the kitchen. It instantly lifted everyone’s mood and we all agreed it was a keeper recipe for the family.

Storage Tips

Store leftover Arroz con Pollo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to five days. When reheating cover the dish and heat gently on the stove or microwave to keep the chicken moist and prevent the rice from drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have queso sauce you can use shredded cheese such as Monterey Jack or mild cheddar melted on top instead. Chicken thighs work very well if you prefer a richer texture. You can omit the chipotle sauce if you want a milder dish or substitute with a smoky paprika to keep depth without the heat.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with warm corn or flour tortillas allowing you to make quick wraps or to scoop up every bite. A fresh garden salad with a lime vinaigrette gives a bright counterpoint and black beans add an extra protein boost if you want a heartier meal.

Enjoy this cozy quick Arroz con Pollo that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and makes great leftovers.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What side dishes pair well with this dish?

Warm tortillas, guacamole, black or refried beans, fresh garden salads with lime vinaigrette, and crispy tortilla chips with salsa complement it wonderfully.

→ Where can I buy queso sauce?

Look for queso sauce on Mexican ingredients shelves or in refrigerated sections near cheeses or salsas at the grocery store.

→ Which rice works best for this meal?

Spanish-style rice is ideal, either store-bought or homemade. Avoid adding extra peppers or onions to the rice if they are already included in the dish.

→ Can I substitute fajita seasoning?

Taco seasoning is a suitable alternative offering similar flavor notes if fajita seasoning is unavailable.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers refrigerated and consume within 5 days for best taste and safety.