Benefits and Advantages of arroz imperial
Arroz imperial is a versatile and satisfying Cuban casserole that appeals to cooks of all skill levels. One of the key benefits of this dish is its simplicity; it uses everyday ingredients combined in a straightforward way to produce a rich and flavorful meal. Its balanced composition includes seasoned yellow rice, shredded chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and melted cheese, providing all major macronutrients in one dish.
The dish is also adaptable to a variety of dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan options, which increases its appeal among diverse households. Fresh ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and pimentos not only add vibrant color and taste but boost the nutritional profile with vitamins and minerals. Arroz imperial stands out as a comfort food classic that works equally well for weeknight dinners and large gatherings, delivering both convenience and nutrition in every bite.
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Essential Ingredients for arroz imperial
- 2 cups long grain rice (washed and drained)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- ½ small green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp sliced pimentos (drained)
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 3 cups water
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
- ½ tsp annatto or turmeric powder (for coloring)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cooked and shredded; rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing the chicken mixture)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup chicken stock or broth (for deglazing the pan)
- 1 cup diced deli ham (optional but traditional)
- ¾ cup mayonnaise (can substitute with plain Greek yogurt or sour cream)
- 2 to 3 cups shredded cheese (a blend of Gouda, Cheddar, mozzarella, or similar melty cheeses totaling approximately 200-300 grams)
- Garnishes: sliced olives, sliced red pepper, and chopped flat-leaf parsley (optional)
This ingredient list balances traditional Cuban flavors with options to suit a variety of diets, allowing for substitutions without compromising the overall taste and texture of arroz imperial.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your arroz imperial
Arroz imperial is a delicious and adaptable Cuban casserole that can easily be customized to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Here are some practical substitutions to keep your arroz imperial flavorful and accessible for everyone:
- Vegan and Vegetarian Options: Replace shredded chicken with textured vegetable protein (TVP), cooked lentils, or sautéed mushrooms to mimic the texture and heartiness of chicken. Use vegan mayonnaise alternatives such as plant-based spreads or creamy cashew-based sauces. Swap traditional shredded cheese with vegan cheese substitutes to maintain that melty topping without animal products.
- Gluten-Free Variations: This dish is naturally gluten-free if you ensure that the bouillon cube, tomato sauce, and seasoning blends are certified gluten-free. Always check labels to avoid hidden gluten in processed ingredients.
- Low-Calorie Adjustments: Use leaner proteins such as ground turkey, chicken breast, or plant-based alternatives to reduce fat content. Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream in smaller amounts to lower calories while still binding the layers. Opt for reduced-fat cheese or use less cheese overall.
- Low-Carb Alternatives: Substitute the traditional yellow rice with cauliflower rice or another low-carb rice substitute. This variation significantly cuts down carbohydrates but maintains the dish’s satisfying texture when combined with the other layers.
- Additional Flavor and Texture Enhancements: Incorporate diced sweet deli ham or chorizo for added savory flavor and protein. Incorporate extra vegetables like peas, diced bell peppers, or carrots into the rice layer to boost nutrition and color.
These substitutions allow arroz imperial to remain a crowd-pleaser that fits a wide range of dietary choices, all while preserving the classic flavors and comforting qualities that make this dish so popular. For more creative meal ideas, you might enjoy our Garlic Chicken recipe or Parmesan Chicken Rice.
Learn how to prepare authentic yellow rice as part of your arroz imperial with this helpful guide: Classic Cuban Yellow Rice Recipe.
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arroz imperial
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free option available
Description
🍚 Arroz Imperial is a comforting Cuban casserole layering seasoned yellow rice with shredded chicken, ham, creamy mayo, and melted cheese for a rich, satisfying meal.
🧀 This classic dish is perfect for gatherings and parties, offering ease of preparation and delicious authentic flavors everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
2 cups long grain rice (washed and drained)
2 tbsp olive oil
½ small onion, finely chopped
½ small green bell pepper, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp sliced pimentos (drained)
½ cup tomato sauce
3 cups water
1 chicken bouillon cube
½ tsp annatto or turmeric powder (for coloring)
1 bay leaf
Salt to taste
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cooked and shredded; rotisserie chicken works well)
2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing the chicken mixture)
1 small onion, chopped
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup chicken stock or broth (for deglazing the pan)
1 cup diced deli ham (optional but traditional)
¾ cup mayonnaise (can substitute with plain Greek yogurt or sour cream)
2 to 3 cups shredded cheese (a blend of Gouda, Cheddar, mozzarella, or similar melty cheeses totaling approximately 200–300 grams)
Garnishes: sliced olives, sliced red pepper, and chopped flat-leaf parsley (optional)
Instructions
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter.
Prepare batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
Cook pancakes: Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each pancake. Cook until lightly golden brown on both sides; serve hot.
Notes
🧂 Avoid opening the lid while cooking rice to keep it fluffy and properly steamed.
🍗 Use rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor.
🧀 Experiment with different cheese blends like Gouda, mozzarella, and Cheddar for ideal melting and taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cuban
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 525 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 68 mg
Keywords: Arroz Imperial, Cuban Rice Casserole, Chicken Casserole, Cuban Comfort Food
I made the arroz imperial for our family dinner last night, and it was a hit! 🥳 Although I added some extra bell peppers for a bit more crunch. Thanks for the recipe—it brought back fond memories of my abuela’s cooking!
★★★★★