Get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Puerto Rico with this irresistible chicken and rice dish that promises to turn an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure! Imagine tender, golden-brown chicken thighs nestled on a bed of fragrant saffron-infused rice, packed with bold flavors that will make your family beg for seconds. This isn't just a recipe—it's a journey through Puerto Rican cuisine that will elevate your home cooking from mundane to magnificent.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 cups rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp saffron
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the thighs dry with paper towels and generously seasoning both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 6-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside on a plate.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
- Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat the grains with the vegetable mixture, toasting slightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the saffron threads over the rice. Stir gently to distribute the saffron evenly.
- Carefully place the browned chicken thighs on top of the rice, nestling them slightly into the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
- Serve hot, placing a chicken thigh on top of a portion of the saffron rice, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Skin Crispiness is Key: Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfectly crispy, golden-brown skin that adds incredible texture.
- Saffron Selection: Use high-quality saffron threads for the most authentic and rich flavor. A little goes a long way, so use sparingly.
- Rice Perfection: Toast the rice briefly before adding liquid to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Maintain a low simmer when cooking to ensure the chicken is tender and the rice cooks evenly without burning.
- Resting Time Matters: Allow the dish to rest after cooking to let flavors meld and the rice absorb any remaining liquid, creating a more cohesive and delicious meal.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a bright, fresh finish to this rich and comforting dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 438kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg
