Aruban Rice With Chicken Recipe

Escape to Aruba with this vibrant and easy-to-make chicken and rice recipe! A taste of the Caribbean in under an hour, this simple dish is perfect for a weeknight meal. Serve alongside a fresh lettuce and tomato salad for a complete and satisfying experience. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 55 mins
Calories 523.6 kcal
Protein 33g
Rating 4.8 (5 Reviews)
Aruban Rice With Chicken

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Aruban Rice With Chicken

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • Water
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth
  • Chicken Leg
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • Green Pepper
  • Celery Ribs
  • Tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt & Pepper

How to Make Aruban Rice With Chicken

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast lightly.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, coconut milk, and tomato paste. Stir in the adobo seasoning, saffron, and thyme.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped scallions and cilantro before serving. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired. Serve hot with a side salad of your choice.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

16 g

Sugar

9g

Fat

13g

Carbs

27g