Here’s a list of ingredients for **Instant Pot Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo**, optimized for SEO with relevant keywords:
- **Chicken thighs or drumsticks** (bone-in, skin-on for authentic flavor)
- **Long-grain white rice** (essential for Puerto Rican-style arroz con pollo)
- **Olive oil** (for sautéing and adding richness)
- **Sofrito** (Puerto Rican sofrito base with onions, garlic, peppers, and cilantro)
- **Tomato sauce** (adds color and depth of flavor)
- **Chicken broth** (for cooking the rice and infusing flavor)
- **Sazon seasoning** (with annatto for authentic Puerto Rican seasoning)
- **Adobo seasoning** (for seasoning the chicken)
- **Garlic powder** (enhances the savory profile)
- **Oregano** (dried or fresh, for a traditional touch)
- **Bay leaves** (adds aromatic depth to the dish)
- **Green olives** (with pimientos, for a briny, authentic flavor)
- **Frozen peas and carrots** (optional, for added color and texture)
- **Cilantro** (fresh, for garnish and added freshness)
- **Salt and black pepper** (to taste, for seasoning)
This **Instant Pot Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo recipe** is perfect for a quick, flavorful, and authentic one-pot meal. It’s a great way to enjoy **Puerto Rican comfort food** with minimal effort!
Steps
# How to Make Instant Pot Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo: A Flavorful One-Pot Meal
Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo is a classic dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic rice, and vibrant spices. Using an Instant Pot makes this recipe quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious, authentic Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo that will impress your family and friends.
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### **Ingredients for Instant Pot Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo**
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 packet Sazón seasoning (or substitute with 1 tsp turmeric and 1 tsp annatto powder)
- 1/2 cup green olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
#### **1. Prepare the Chicken**
- Season the chicken thighs or drumsticks generously with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika.
- Set the Instant Pot to "Sauté" mode and heat 2 tbsp of olive oil.
- Sear the chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
#### **2. Sauté the Vegetables**
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, Sazón seasoning, and green olives (if using). Cook for another minute to blend the flavors.
#### **3. Add Rice and Liquid**
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Add the rice to the Instant Pot and stir to coat it with the vegetable mixture.
- Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir.
#### **4. Cook the Arroz con Pollo**
- Place the seared chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing."
- Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" setting and set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.
#### **5. Natural Release and Serve**
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
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### **Tips for Perfect Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo**
- **Use Bone-In Chicken:** Bone-in chicken adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- **Don’t Skip the Sazón:** Sazón seasoning is key to the authentic Puerto Rican flavor.
- **Adjust Liquid Ratio:** For firmer rice, reduce the chicken broth by 1/4 cup.
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### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
This Instant Pot Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo is a one-pot wonder that’s packed with bold flavors and vibrant colors. It’s a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Serve it with a side of fried plantains or a simple salad for a complete Puerto Rican feast.
By following these steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready in under an hour. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine right in your own kitchen!
**Keywords:** Instant Pot Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo, easy arroz con pollo recipe, one-pot chicken and rice, Puerto Rican rice dish, Instant Pot chicken recipes, authentic arroz con pollo.