Arroz Con Pollo

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 lbs skinless chicken pieces
• 1 1/2 cups brown rice
• 1 mild green pepper, seeded and chopped ((I use a Cubanelle)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron thread
• salt and pepper
• 2 1/2 cups chicken stock
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce

Directions

1. 1

   Rinse the rice and drain it very well. Prepare the onion, pepper and garlic. Mix the chicken stock and tomato sauce and set aside.

2. 2

   Heat the oil in a large heavy skillet, over medium heat. Saute the chicken pieces until lightly browned on each side. Remove them to a plate and set them aside.

3. 3

   Add the rice to the skillet, and toss it in the remaining oil. Saute the rice until half of it has turned opaque.

4. 4

   Add the chopped pepper and onion, and continue to saute until the onion is soft and translucent.

5. 5

   Add the garlic, saffron, salt and pepper, and saute for another minute.(You may add the saffron separately to the chicken stock and heat itand set aside to allow the saffron to release its flavor).

6. 6

   Add the mixed chicken stock and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil.

7. 7

   Return the chicken pieces to the pan. Cover, and reduce the heat to a simmer.

8. 8

   Simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid absorbed.