Costa Rican Arroz Con Pollo

Our family loves Costa Rica! Paul served a 2-year mission for our church in Costa Rica and took me there on our honeymoon. We have been fortunate enough to go back many times since then and absolutely love the people and the country. One of our very favorite Costa Rican dishes is this arroz con pollo, which just means “rice with chicken”. Lots of countries and cultures have a similar dish, but everybody does it just a little differently. So this is “Tico-style” arroz con pollo. Arroz con Pollo has been a staple in Latin American cuisine for a very long time, particularly in Costa Rica, where its delicious flavor makes it a popular dish that everybody has to try at least once if they visit the country. I worked long and hard on perfecting my arroz con pollo recipe because I wanted it to taste just like the very best versions I enjoyed while in Costa Rica. I even took a cooking class near the Arenal Volcano once where we made it and discussed the flavors and methods that go into this dish that every Costa Rican grandmother knows how to make. It is incredibly flavorful, combining spices, vegetables, and tender chicken along with chicken broth, tomato paste, and a variety of spices ensures a rich and savory taste. For more flavorful rice dishes to try, check out my recipes for Homemade Mexican Rice (aka Spanish Rice), Easy Cilantro Lime Rice, Easy Chicken Fried Rice, Easy Dirty Rice, and Cafe Rio Black Beans & Cilantro Lime Rice!

Why We Love This Recipe

You can easily make it a one-pot meal by cooking everything in the same large Dutch oven, or a similar pot, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy with family or friends. It’s also a great way to use up leftovers, making it economical as well as delicious.

What You’ll Need

Scroll down to the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

Long Grain White Rice – This is the base of the dish. Long grain rice is preferred for its texture and ability to absorb flavors. Chicken Broth, Chicken Stock, or Water – Adds depth of flavor to the rice. Achiote Paste – Provides a distinctive color and flavor. Salt – Enhances the overall taste. Vegetable Oil – For sautéing the vegetables. Olive oil can also be used. Chicken Breasts – Provides protein and richness. Mixed Vegetables – Adds color and nutrition. Celery Stalks – Adds crunch and flavor. Onion – A base for the sofrito. Garlic Cloves – Essential for the sofrito. Salsa Lizano – Adds a unique flavor. Red Bell Peppers – Adds sweetness and color. Use a green bell pepper for less sweetness. Cilantro – Freshness and flavor. Green Onion – Adds a mild onion flavor.

How to Make Arroz con Pollo

Tips for Success

Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor. Fresh cilantro and bell peppers make a noticeable difference. Cook the chicken until just done to ensure it remains tender when added to the rice. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or a squeeze of lime can enhance the flavors. You can make one-pot Arroz con Pollo by using the large Dutch Oven to boil the chicken before sautéing the vegetables.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture, or use leftover rotisserie chicken. Fresh green beans, carrots, and peas can replace the frozen mixed vegetables. Add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor. If you don’t have garlic cloves, garlic powder can be used in a pinch.

More Easy Chicken Recipes You’ll Love

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole Easy Chicken Fried Rice Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Chicken Stroganoff Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Easy Creamy Chicken Marsala Best Homemade Chicken Pot Pie

Fried or baked plantains are a traditional side dish that pairs perfectly with Arroz con Pollo. Their sweetness balances the savory flavors of the dish. Creamy avocado slices are a simple yet delicious accompaniment. They add a rich, buttery texture that complements the rice and chicken.