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 32

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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