Delicious Panamanian Recipe: Rice with Chicken

If you're on the hunt for a mouthwatering and satisfying dish, look no further than the Panamanian classic, Rice with Chicken. This savory and comforting recipe seamlessly combines tender chicken with aromatic rice and a medley of flavorful herbs and spices. Known locally as "Arroz con Pollo," this dish holds a special place in the hearts and stomachs of Panamanians, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast.

Originating from the Spanish colonization of Panama, the recipe has evolved over the years to create a unique combination of flavors that truly represents Panamanian cuisine. With influences from African, Caribbean, and Indigenous cultures, this dish embodies the country's rich culinary heritage.

To start cooking this delectable dish, let's gather the ingredients. You'll need:

2 cups of long-grain rice

1 whole chicken, cut into pieces

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced

1 tomato, diced

1 teaspoon of cumin

1 teaspoon of oregano

1 teaspoon of paprika

1 teaspoon of annatto powder (optional, for color)

4 cups of chicken broth

1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Now that we have everything we need, let's dive into the cooking process. Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin. Allow the flavors to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Next, heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of cooking oil. Sear the chicken pieces until they have a golden brown crust. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, bell pepper, and tomato. Sauté until they become fragrant and slightly softened. Then, sprinkle in the annatto powder (if using), oregano, and any remaining seasoning from the chicken.

Add the rice and mix it well with the vegetables, making sure each grain is coated with the flavors. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and lay the chicken pieces over the rice. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid.

While the rice is cooking, take this opportunity to prepare your mixed vegetables according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set them aside.

After the rice has absorbed the liquid and is cooked to perfection, gently remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the cooked mixed vegetables. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

To serve, generously ladle the flavorful rice onto plates and top each portion with a piece of the succulent chicken. Garnish with fresh cilantro, which adds a vibrant touch and a hint of freshness to the dish.

Rice with Chicken is often enjoyed as a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with fried plantains, avocado slices, or a zesty salad to create a full Panamanian feast. Don't forget to have a side of hot sauce or salsa on hand if you like to add a kick of heat to your culinary experience.

This traditional Panamanian dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also tells a story of Panama's diverse culinary influences. So, the next time you're in the mood for a delightful and cultural journey through food, give this recipe a try. You'll be transported to the tropical flavors of Panama right from the comfort of your own kitchen. Buen provecho!