– 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
– 2 cups of long-grain rice
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 green bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tomatoes, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
Preparation Time
The preparation of Arroz de Galinha typically involves several stages, including marinating, sautéing, and simmering. The total time from start to finish is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, broken down into:
– Preparation: 30 minutes
– Cooking: 60 minutes
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings. The dish can be easily doubled or halved depending on the number of guests.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by marinating the chicken pieces to infuse them with flavor. In a bowl, combine a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. For optimal results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or better yet, overnight in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion. Sauté the onions until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, continuing to sauté for an additional 3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Once the vegetables are softened, add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices
To the browning chicken, add the diced tomatoes, saffron (if using), bay leaf, and more salt and pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to cook for 5 minutes, letting the tomatoes break down and release their juices.
Step 5: Incorporate the Rice
Once the tomato mixture is well combined, add the rice directly to the pot. Stir the rice into the chicken and vegetable mixture, toasting it slightly for about 2 minutes. This will help the rice absorb all the great flavors of the pot.
Step 6: Pour in the Chicken Broth
Next, carefully pour in the chicken broth. Ensure that the rice is submerged in the liquid. Stir gently to combine, and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 7: Simmer the Dish
Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as the steam is essential for perfectly cooked rice.
Step 8: Check for Doneness
After the cooking time, check to see if the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. If not, cover again and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. Once done, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 9: Fluff and Serve
After letting the dish rest, remove the lid and use a fork to gently fluff the rice. Serve the Arroz de Galinha warm, garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by lemon wedges for a zesty touch.