Cuban Arroz Con Pollo

Step 1

First, pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel then season with salt, pepper, and cumin.

Step 2

In a wide Dutch oven or large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Over medium heat, place chicken thighs in the pan and brown on both sides. Transfer to a plate.

Step 3

Next, add the remaining olive oil and sauté onion, garlic and red pepper, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 4

Add the rice, chicken stock, tomato sauce, annatto powder, bay leaf, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring to a boil then add the chicken thighs to the mixture.

Step 5

Cover with the lid and reduce heat to low. Cooking low and slow will ensure you don't burn the rice. Every stove cooks differently so after 40-45 minutes, take a peek and see if the liquid has been absorbed. If not, continue to cook in 5-minute increments until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 6

Once the liquid has been absorbed, add in the frozen peas, stirring until warm, then fluff the rice with a fork. Serve and enjoy!