Saffron-Infused Arroz con Pollo: A Cuban Comfort Classic & Mojito Recipe

saffron threads

💰Cheaper: turmeric

Turmeric provides a similar color at a lower cost.

arborio rice

🥗Healthier: brown rice

Brown rice adds fiber and nutrients.

chicken

🥗Healthier: tofu

Tofu offers a plant-based protein alternative.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

Vegetable broth is lower in calories and suitable for vegetarians.

Season chicken thighs on both sides.

Soak saffron threads in 1/4 cup white wine.

Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a pan and add chicken skin side down; cook for 5 minutes.

Flip chicken and cook for another 5 minutes covered.

Remove chicken and set aside.

Reduce heat to medium and add chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened.

Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant.

Add 8 oz can of plain tomato sauce and saffron-wine mixture; stir.

Add 2 fresh bay leaves, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon oregano; stir and let liquid evaporate for 5-10 minutes.

Add 1 cup arborio rice and 2 cups chicken stock; stir.

Return chicken to the pot, cover, and reduce heat to low; cook for 30 minutes.

Remove bay leaves, stir in frozen peas, and garnish with chopped parsley.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: