Valley-Style Arroz con Pollo

Name: Valley-Style Arroz con Pollo
Yield: makes 6 to 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 (3-pound) chicken, cut into 8 pieces, skin removed; 2 teaspoons salt, plus more for chicken; 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, plus more for chicken; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes; 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 cup finely chopped onion; 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 3 bay leaves; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 (32-ounce) carton chicken broth (see page 200), or as needed

By Crystal Cook and Sandy Pollock

June 22, 2011

“The Valley” is what we, in Texas, call the Rio Grande Valley. It’s located on the southernmost tip of the state, bordering Mexico, and it’s where Sandy grew up. The Valley is a melting pot of American and Mexican cultures, and is known for its festivals, architecture, and cuisine. So when Sandy talks about comfort food, she thinks of dishes that are often heavily influenced by traditional Mexican flavors. Arroz con Pollo (rice with chicken) is one of her favorites. Many Spanish-speaking countries claim this dish, so there are many different ways to prepare it. This particular recipe is served up Valley style and is uniquely Texan.

Recipe notes

Rosemary and Dried Cherry Pork Chops

Rehydrating dried cherries in hot water turns them plump and juicy—exactly what you want scattered throughout a rosemary-scented pan sauce for pork chops.

Brussels Sprout Pasta

This brussels sprout pasta recipe taps nutty brown butter, crunchy pecans, and hot Italian sausage to create an easy dinner bursting with fall flavors.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Frijoles Peruanos (Peruvian Refried Beans)

Mayocobas, or canary beans, are the quick-cooking pantry ingredient you should know about.

White Bean Turkey Chili

A dash of cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the broth of this easy turkey chili.

French Silk Pie

A no-bake Oreo crust, a rich chocolate filling, and a tower of whipped cream come together in this shut-the-room-up dessert.