When it comes to comfort food with a punch of flavor, nothing quite compares to Mexican Arroz con Pollo. With the rich, savory taste of tender chicken and the perfect balance of spices, this classic dish is a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special recipe to impress guests, there’s a Mexican Arroz con Pollo variation for every occasion.
From the smoky flavors of chipotle to the tang of fresh lime, these 25+ recipes will bring exciting new twists to your table.
Expect vibrant dishes filled with fresh ingredients like cilantro, bell peppers, and tomatoes, each with its own unique aroma and texture. Get ready to explore the many possibilities of this versatile and mouthwatering dish!
25+ Flavorful Mexican Arroz con Pollo Recipes to Spice Up Your Weeknight Meals
Mexican Arroz con Pollo offers endless possibilities for culinary exploration, making it a go-to dish for any home cook.
With over 25 variations, you can tailor the dish to fit your personal taste, whether you’re seeking a spicy kick, a fresh citrus twist, or a comforting, savory base. From family dinners to special occasions, these recipes ensure you can always enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal.
With so many options at your fingertips, you’ll never tire of cooking this iconic dish.
So, gather your ingredients, bring out your cooking skills, and get ready to indulge in the rich and savory goodness of Mexican Arroz con Pollo.
Arroz con Pollo Tradicional
This classic Mexican Arroz con Pollo is a comforting, vibrant dish that brings the warmth of home into your kitchen. Tender chicken is simmered in a rich, flavorful broth with aromatic garlic, onions, and a medley of spices, infusing every grain of rice with savory goodness. The saffron gives the rice a beautiful golden hue, while the peas and carrots add a pop of color and texture. This dish offers a complete, balanced meal that’s perfect on its own, or can be paired with a fresh avocado salad for an added burst of flavor. The delightful aromas wafting from the pot will make this a weekly favorite.
One-Pot Arroz con Pollo
For busy nights when you crave a flavorful, comforting meal without the fuss, this One-Pot Arroz con Pollo is your go-to recipe. With chicken, rice, and a colorful blend of bell peppers, tomatoes, and peas, all cooked together in one pot, the flavors meld beautifully as the rice absorbs the savory juices. The earthy cumin and smoky paprika add depth, while a squeeze of lime at the end brings a refreshing brightness. This dish is perfect when you’re craving something hearty, yet light and vibrant at the same time.
Spicy Arroz con Pollo
Craving a little heat with your comfort food? This Spicy Arroz con Pollo recipe delivers just the right balance of fiery flavor and savory goodness. Packed with diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and a generous helping of garlic, this dish offers a tantalizing kick that’s tempered by the tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. The smoky, spicy notes linger on your palate, making every bite an adventure. Serve it alongside some cooling sour cream or a simple cilantro-lime slaw to mellow out the heat while elevating the meal.
Coconut Arroz con Pollo
Take your traditional Arroz con Pollo to the next level with a creamy twist in this Coconut Arroz con Pollo recipe. Coconut milk adds a luscious richness to the rice, complementing the savory chicken and bright lime accents. The addition of golden raisins brings a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the subtle heat from green chilies. This tropical take on the classic is as comforting as it is exotic, perfect for a cozy dinner or as the centerpiece of a special gathering.
Arroz con Pollo al Horno (Baked)
If you’re looking to minimize stove-top time while still enjoying a delicious, flavor-packed meal, Arroz con Pollo al Horno is the answer. This baked version layers seasoned chicken over rice and vegetables, allowing the oven to do the work. As the chicken roasts, its juices infuse the rice, making every bite irresistibly tender and flavorful. The crispy skin on the chicken adds a satisfying contrast to the soft, fluffy rice below. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe that feels like a special treat.
Arroz con Pollo Verde
Brighten your dinner table with this vibrant Arroz con Pollo Verde, where the flavor of roasted tomatillos and cilantro takes center stage. The fresh, tangy verde sauce coats the chicken and rice, creating a refreshing yet savory meal. This version is slightly lighter, with the bright herbaceous flavors of cilantro and lime enhancing the chicken and rice in the most delightful way. Perfect for warmer months or when you want a fresh twist on a Mexican classic, this dish will leave your taste buds tingling with satisfaction.
Arroz con Pollo a la Mexicana
This vibrant Arroz con Pollo a la Mexicana offers a burst of color and flavor with each bite. The rice is cooked with a flavorful blend of tomatoes, onions, and garlic, creating a savory base that perfectly complements the tender chicken. A hint of jalapeño adds just the right amount of spice, while a dash of cilantro brings a fresh finish. Whether served as a main dish or as a side to your favorite Mexican fiesta, this recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.
Arroz con Pollo y Frijoles
For a complete and hearty meal, Arroz con Pollo y Frijoles is the way to go. The combination of seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and creamy black beans creates a comforting, filling dish that’s packed with protein and flavor. The beans add an earthy richness that contrasts beautifully with the zesty tomato and onion mix. This dish is perfect for meal prepping or serving to a hungry crowd—it’s a soul-satisfying meal that works well on its own or paired with a crisp green salad.
Arroz con Pollo Rojo
Deep red and savory, Arroz con Pollo Rojo takes the traditional recipe to new heights with its smoky, rich flavors. The rice is infused with the deep notes of roasted tomatoes, dried chiles, and cumin, creating a dish that’s both hearty and full of depth. The chicken is tender and juicy, perfectly complementing the rich, spiced rice. This dish is perfect for those who love bold, smoky flavors with a bit of heat. Pair it with a dollop of cooling crema to balance the spice for a truly satisfying meal.
Arroz con Pollo con Chile Verde
For those who love a fresh, green twist, Arroz con Pollo con Chile Verde offers a delightful balance of bright and savory flavors. The green chile sauce, made with roasted tomatillos and garlic, infuses both the chicken and rice with a subtle heat and tanginess. This dish is lighter than the traditional red version, yet still offers a rich and comforting flavor profile. Serve it with a side of lime wedges for a fresh burst of citrus to enhance the dish even further.
Arroz con Pollo con Pimientos
Arroz con Pollo con Pimientos is a colorful, Mediterranean-inspired variation that incorporates sweet red bell peppers and smoky paprika into the classic dish. The peppers add a gentle sweetness that complements the savory chicken and the perfectly seasoned rice. Each bite bursts with flavor, from the smoky undertones of the paprika to the vibrant, tender vegetables. This dish is ideal for those who enjoy a lighter, more aromatic take on Arroz con Pollo, and it pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing citrus salad.
Arroz con Pollo de la Costa
Inspired by the coastal regions of Mexico, Arroz con Pollo de la Costa features the bright, zesty flavors of lime, coconut, and cilantro, paired with tender chicken and fluffy rice. The coconut milk adds a velvety texture to the rice, while the lime zest and juice bring a refreshing tang. This version has a tropical twist that transports you straight to the beach with every bite. Perfect for summer or a special dinner, this dish offers a fresh, exotic take on the classic Arroz con Pollo.
Arroz con Pollo Simple
Arroz con Pollo Simple brings the beauty of simplicity into the kitchen. With just a few basic ingredients—chicken, rice, onions, garlic, and a sprinkle of spices—this dish comes together effortlessly. The rice absorbs the rich flavors of the chicken as it simmers, creating a comforting, savory meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. You can add peas, carrots, or your favorite veggies for extra color and texture. This simple version allows the savory chicken and rice to shine, offering a satisfying meal on its own or as a perfect side to grilled meats.
Arroz con Pollo Instant Pot
For a modern twist on the classic, the Arroz con Pollo Instant Pot makes this beloved dish quick and easy to prepare. This pressure-cooked version locks in all the rich flavors of tender chicken, aromatic onions, garlic, and spiced rice, giving you a flavorful meal in a fraction of the time. The Instant Pot helps the rice absorb all the savory chicken juices, making it extra flavorful. Ideal for a busy day, this recipe lets you enjoy the comforting tastes of Mexican cuisine without the long cooking time.
Arroz con Pollo al Chipotle
If you love a smoky, spicy kick, Arroz con Pollo al Chipotle is the perfect choice. This recipe infuses the chicken and rice with the bold flavor of chipotle peppers, adding heat and smokiness that will tantalize your taste buds. The deep, rich tomato base brings out the savory notes, while the creamy texture of the rice balances the heat. Whether served on its own or with a side of tangy sour cream, this dish will deliver a satisfying blend of smoky and spicy flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Arroz con Pollo Yucatán
Inspired by the flavors of the Yucatán Peninsula, Arroz con Pollo Yucatán introduces vibrant citrus and achiote spices into this classic dish. The chicken is marinated in a tangy mixture of orange juice, lime, and achiote paste, which imparts a bright and aromatic flavor. When cooked, the rice takes on a beautiful red hue, bursting with zest and warmth. This version is perfect for those seeking a citrusy and slightly tangy twist on the traditional recipe, offering a bright and exotic flavor profile that stands out at any meal.
Arroz con Pollo al Limón
Zesty and refreshing, Arroz con Pollo al Limón adds a delightful twist with the bright, tangy flavor of lemon. The rice absorbs the citrusy juice and zest from fresh lemons, creating a fragrant and light base for the succulent chicken. The addition of herbs like thyme and parsley enhances the fresh, bright flavors, making each bite a burst of sunshine. This lighter, citrusy take on Arroz con Pollo is perfect for a spring or summer dinner, offering a refreshing change from the heavier, spiced versions of the dish.
Arroz con Pollo con Salsa Roja
Arroz con Pollo con Salsa Roja brings a deep, rich flavor thanks to a luscious homemade red sauce made from roasted tomatoes, garlic, and spices. This dish’s bold red sauce coats the chicken and rice, infusing them with warmth and savory goodness. The smokiness from the roasted tomatoes gives the dish a satisfying depth, while the tender chicken pieces soak up all the flavorful
arroz con Pollo Verde
Arroz con Pollo Verde is a fresh and zesty variation that combines the earthy flavor of green chilies and tomatillos with the comforting richness of chicken and rice. The vibrant green sauce infuses the dish with a tangy kick, while the chicken stays tender and juicy, absorbing all the bold flavors. The cilantro adds a refreshing finish, and a squeeze of lime brightens the entire dish. This is the perfect option for those craving something both flavorful and light, ideal for a quick family dinner or a summer gathering.
Arroz con Pollo al Pastor
Take your Arroz con Pollo to new heights with a twist of al pastor in this delicious recipe. Inspired by the famous Mexican street food, this dish combines the savory richness of marinated chicken with the smokiness of pineapple and achiote. The chicken is infused with layers of flavor, and the rice soaks up all the vibrant juices, making every bite an explosion of savory, slightly sweet, and spicy goodness. Serve with a fresh salsa for a complete and unique take on this classic dish.
Arroz con Pollo Casero
Arroz con Pollo Casero is a homemade, heartwarming version of this beloved dish. Featuring tender chicken, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a touch of saffron, this dish is simple yet bursting with flavor. The rich broth soaks into the rice, creating a comforting base that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. This homestyle version feels like a meal made with love and is perfect for family gatherings or when you just want to treat yourself to something familiar and satisfying.
Arroz con Pollo Ranchero
Arroz con Pollo Ranchero brings the essence of traditional ranch-style cooking to your table. Chicken is seasoned with a smoky, slightly spicy ranchero sauce made from roasted tomatoes, chili peppers, and garlic, creating a bold flavor that infuses both the chicken and rice. The rice absorbs the sauce’s rich, savory notes, making it the perfect accompaniment. This hearty, flavorful dish is ideal for those who crave a little extra kick and a rustic, homey feel in their meals.
Arroz con Pollo con Verduras
For a lighter and more vegetable-packed version, Arroz con Pollo con Verduras incorporates a variety of fresh veggies such as bell peppers, peas, and carrots alongside the tender chicken. The rice soaks up the delicious, aromatic juices from the chicken and vegetables, making each bite a healthy yet flavorful experience. This dish is the perfect way to add a boost of vitamins and fiber while still enjoying the savory comforts of Arroz con Pollo, perfect for a wholesome family dinner.
Arroz con Pollo Tapatío
Arroz con Pollo Tapatío showcases the flavors of Guadalajara with a spicy kick of Tapatío sauce. This popular Mexican hot sauce adds a layer of heat and flavor to the chicken and rice, enhancing the overall dish with its tangy, peppery notes. The rice soaks up the sauce’s savory goodness, while the tender chicken pieces bring a delicious balance of spice and richness. It’s a bold and lively variation of Arroz con Pollo that brings the vibrant spirit of Jalisco right into your kitchen.
Conclusion
No matter which of these 25+ Mexican Arroz con Pollo recipes you choose, you’re guaranteed to experience a meal full of flavor, texture, and heartiness. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to adapt to your preferences, offering everything from spicy and smoky to fresh and tangy variations. It’s a meal that works for casual family dinners, festive celebrations, or when you just want something truly satisfying.
So, explore these incredible recipes and get ready to add a new favorite to your culinary repertoire. Mexican Arroz con Pollo is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of rich ingredients and bold flavors that are sure to impress every time you make it.
