Arroz Imperial Recipe: Classic Cuban Casserole Made Easy for Family Dinners

Benefits and Advantages of arroz imperial

Arroz imperial is a beloved Cuban casserole known for its ease of preparation and comforting flavors, making it accessible for cooks at all skill levels. The recipe requires a manageable number of ingredients while producing a rich, satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. It’s flexible and can be adapted to various dietary preferences by incorporating lean proteins like chicken breast and fresh vegetables to boost its nutritional value.

One of the standout features of arroz imperial is its layered structure, combining seasoned yellow rice, shredded chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and melted cheese to create a dish reminiscent of Cuban lasagna. This layering contributes not only to the hearty taste but also to an impressive presentation. The recipe’s adaptability means it can easily be modified for vegan or gluten-free diets, making it suitable for a wide range of nutritional needs.

Arroz imperial’s combination of flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility make it a go-to choice for busy households looking for a delicious, nutritious, and crowd-pleasing meal.

Essential Ingredients for arroz imperial

• 2 cups uncooked long grain rice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp sliced pimentos, drained
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• 4 cups water
• 1 chicken bouillon cube
• 1/2 tsp annatto powder or turmeric (for color)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste
• 2 lbs cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie chicken recommended)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sauté)
• 1/2 small onion, chopped
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken stock (for deglazing)
• 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt or sour cream as alternatives)
• 2-3 cups shredded melty cheese (like cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or a blend)
• Optional: 1 cup diced sweet deli ham
• Garnishes: sliced olives, pimentos, or finely chopped parsley

This ingredient list supports the classic taste and texture of arroz imperial, allowing substitutions for dietary needs while preserving traditional flavors.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your arroz imperial

Adapting arroz imperial for different diets is simple due to its flexible ingredients. Here are some common customizations:

• Vegan alternatives: Replace shredded chicken with textured vegetable protein, jackfruit, or mushrooms. Use vegan mayonnaise and plant-based cheese substitutes to retain creaminess and cheesiness.
• Gluten-free options: The dish is naturally gluten-free, but double-check that tomato sauce, seasonings, and bouillon cubes are certified gluten-free.
• Low-calorie adjustments: Use lean chicken breast, reduce or switch mayonnaise to Greek yogurt or sour cream, and select reduced-fat or smaller amounts of cheese.
• Other protein alternatives: Incorporate diced ham or other cooked meats for extra flavor and variety, or substitute chicken with turkey or tofu depending on preferences.
• Rice substitutions: For a lower-carb version, try cauliflower rice or brown rice while adjusting cooking times accordingly.

These substitutions allow arroz imperial to fit diverse nutritional requirements and taste preferences while maintaining the dish’s satisfying character.

How to Prepare the Perfect arroz imperial: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Yellow Rice: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Sauté 1 small chopped onion, 1 small chopped green bell pepper, and 2-3 minced garlic cloves for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add 2 tbsp drained sliced pimentos and 1/4 cup tomato sauce; cook for 1 minute, stirring to combine.
3. Stir in 2 cups uncooked long grain rice, 4 cups water, 1 chicken bouillon cube, 1/2 tsp annatto powder or turmeric, 1 bay leaf, and salt to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer without lifting the lid for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, keep covered for 5 more minutes, then fluff rice with a fork and discard the bay leaf.
5. Cook the Shredded Chicken: In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté 1/2 chopped onion with 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp cumin, salt, and pepper for about 5 minutes.
6. Add 2 minced garlic cloves; cook for 1 minute, then deglaze the pan with 1/4 cup chicken stock.
7. Add 2 lbs shredded cooked chicken breast to the pan, stir well, and cook for 2 minutes. Set aside.
8. Optional Ham Preparation: Lightly brown 1 cup diced sweet deli ham in a separate pan.
9. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom.
10. Layer half the yellow rice evenly over the mayo, then half the shredded chicken (and half the ham if using), followed by a layer of shredded cheese.
11. Repeat layers: remaining rice, a thicker layer of mayonnaise, remaining chicken and ham, and top with remaining shredded cheese.
12. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake or broil for an additional 3–5 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
13. Allow to rest a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced olives, pimentos, or chopped parsley as desired.

Following this method, you’ll create a delicious, richly layered arroz imperial with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. For more rice recipes, see Parmesan Chicken Rice.

Learn about authentic yellow rice preparation in this guide on How to Make Cuban Yellow Rice.

Advanced Tips and Variations

• Enhance Flavor with Spices: Add spices like cumin, smoked paprika, or chili powder to the yellow rice or chicken mixture for deeper, richer flavors.
• Incorporate More Vegetables: Finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or corn can be added to the rice layer for extra color, texture, and nutrition.
• Mix Cheeses: Use a blend of melty cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda to improve flavor complexity and creaminess.
• Substitute Mayonnaise: For a lighter touch, replace mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or sour cream; these alternatives provide creaminess with added tang.
• Include Deli Ham or Olives: Add diced sweet deli ham or sliced olives to the layers to boost traditional Cuban flavors and add a savory punch.
• Make it Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate before baking; it reheats well and allows flavors to meld.
• Try Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, swap the yellow rice with cooked cauliflower rice and adjust seasoning and cooking times accordingly.
• Use Non-Stick Bakeware: Choosing a non-stick casserole dish simplifies cooking and cleanup while preventing sticking.

These tips allow you to personalize arroz imperial for any occasion, dietary preference, or flavor preference without losing its classic Cuban identity.

How to Store arroz imperial: Best Practices

Proper storage of arroz imperial helps maintain its delicious flavor and texture while keeping it safe to eat:

• Cool Quickly: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
• Use Airtight Containers: Store leftovers in sealed containers to retain moisture and prevent odors from spreading in the refrigerator.
• Refrigeration Duration: Consume refrigerated arroz imperial within 3 to 4 days for best quality and safety.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months to maintain flavor and texture.
• Thaw and Reheat: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a small splash of water or broth helps keep the casserole moist during reheating.

These guidelines help you enjoy arroz imperial at its best, whether freshly made or stored for future meals.

Nutritional Value of arroz imperial

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About arroz imperial

arroz imperial

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★★★★★

5 from 1 reviews

• Author: Isabella Hayes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Diet: Contains Dairy, Contains Poultry

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Description

🍚 Arroz Imperial is a rich Cuban casserole combining seasoned yellow rice, shredded chicken, and melted cheese for a comforting family meal.
🧀 This dish layers creamy mayonnaise and melty cheeses, delivering a nostalgic flavor perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners.

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Ingredients

– 2 cups uncooked long grain rice

– 1 tbsp olive oil

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped

– 2-3 garlic cloves, minced

– 2 tbsp sliced pimentos, drained

– 1/4 cup tomato sauce

– 4 cups water

– 1 chicken bouillon cube

– 1/2 tsp annatto powder or turmeric (for color)

– 1 bay leaf

– Salt to taste

– 2 lbs cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie chicken recommended)

– 1 tbsp olive oil (for sauté)

– 1/2 small onion, chopped

– 1 tsp oregano

– 1 tsp cumin

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 garlic cloves, minced

– 1/4 cup chicken stock (for deglazing)

– 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt or sour cream as alternatives)

– 2-3 cups shredded melty cheese (like cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or a blend)

– Optional: 1 cup diced sweet deli ham

– Garnishes: sliced olives, pimentos, or finely chopped parsley

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Instructions

Prepare the Yellow Rice: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Sauté 1 small chopped onion, 1 small chopped green bell pepper, and 2-3 minced garlic cloves for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add 2 tbsp drained sliced pimentos and 1/4 cup tomato sauce; cook for 1 minute, stirring to combine.

Stir in 2 cups uncooked long grain rice, 4 cups water, 1 chicken bouillon cube, 1/2 tsp annatto powder or turmeric, 1 bay leaf, and salt to taste.

Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer without lifting the lid for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, keep covered for 5 more minutes, then fluff rice with a fork and discard the bay leaf.

Cook the Shredded Chicken: In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté 1/2 chopped onion with 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp cumin, salt, and pepper for about 5 minutes.

Add 2 minced garlic cloves; cook for 1 minute, then deglaze the pan with 1/4 cup chicken stock.

Add 2 lbs shredded cooked chicken breast to the pan, stir well, and cook for 2 minutes. Set aside.

Optional Ham Preparation: Lightly brown 1 cup diced sweet deli ham in a separate pan.

Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom.

Layer half the yellow rice evenly over the mayo, then half the shredded chicken (and half the ham if using), followed by a layer of shredded cheese.

Repeat layers: remaining rice, a thicker layer of mayonnaise, remaining chicken and ham, and top with remaining shredded cheese.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake or broil for an additional 3–5 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Allow to rest a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced olives, pimentos, or chopped parsley as desired.

Notes

🥄 Mayonnaise adds creaminess and prevents sticking; substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter option.
🍗 Using rotisserie chicken saves prep time and adds flavor.
🧀 Mixing multiple cheeses enhances melt and taste complexity.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Baking time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Cuban

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 casserole
• Calories: 525 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 46 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 68 mg

Keywords: arroz imperial, Cuban casserole, shredded chicken, comfort food