Arroz con Pollo, or chicken with rice, is a classic dish in both Latin American and Spanish cuisine. Not only is it hearty and flavorful, but it is also perfect for feeding a crowd. Furthermore, this one-pot meal has become a go-to for many home cooks. With its warm, savory spices, tender chicken, and perfectly seasoned rice, it creates a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. However, knowing exactly what to pair with Arroz con Pollo can take this dish from simply delicious to extraordinary.
In this guide, we will not only explore what to pair with Arroz con Pollo, but we will also introduce 10 of the best side dishes and drinks. Whether you’re looking for something sweet, savory, or refreshing, the right pairings will ensure your next meal is balanced and absolutely delicious.
What Makes Arroz con Pollo Special
Before we dive into the best pairings for Arroz con Pollo, let’s first explore what makes this dish so special. At its core, this meal consists of chicken and rice cooked together, usually in one pot, with a blend of vegetables and spices. It’s not only a staple across many Latin American countries, but each region has its own unique variation.
For instance, the Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo includes sofrito, a flavorful mix of onions, garlic, and peppers, along with sazon seasoning, which gives it a distinct taste. Additionally, this version often incorporates green peas, olives, and a squeeze of lime for added brightness.
In Spain, however, Arroz con Pollo can resemble paella, with saffron adding a beautiful golden hue to the rice. What truly makes this dish remarkable is its versatility. It can easily be customized to suit various tastes and preferences. Ultimately, pairing it with the right sides—whether it’s a fresh salad, sweet plantains, or a zesty drink—can turn a simple meal into an unforgettable experience.
How the Right Pairing Elevates Your Meal
When pairing Arroz con Pollo with sides and drinks, the goal is to balance its rich, savory flavors with complementary textures and tastes. The dish naturally brings warmth and depth, mainly due to the perfectly seasoned chicken and rice. However, pairing it with something fresh, tangy, or sweet can greatly enhance the meal and provide the necessary contrast.
For example, the slight sweetness of fried plantains offsets the savory flavors. On the other hand, a zesty avocado salsa adds freshness and acidity, which helps balance the spices in the dish. Additionally, the right drink, such as a refreshing mojito or fruity sangria, helps cleanse the palate between bites. Consequently, this makes the meal feel lighter and more enjoyable.
With that in mind, let’s dive into the 10 best sides and drinks to pair with Arroz con Pollo, ensuring your meal is perfectly balanced.
10 Delicious Sides to Serve with Your Chicken and Rice
1. Black Bean Salad
Why It Works: A black bean salad is both healthy and flavorful. The earthy taste of the beans perfectly complements the spices in the chicken and rice. Moreover, the lime juice and cilantro add brightness, cutting through the richness. This Black Bean Salsa recipe is an ideal match.
Flavor Profile: Creamy black beans, along with diced tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken and rice. Additionally, the lime juice brings a tangy finish.
Tip: Prepare this salad in advance to let the flavors meld. For best results, serve it cold or at room temperature to offer a refreshing contrast to warm Arroz con Pollo.
2. Sweet Plantains (Plátanos Maduros)
Why It Works: The natural sweetness of fried plantains beautifully contrasts the savory flavors of Arroz con Pollo. Sweet plantains, or plátanos maduros, are often fried until caramelized, offering a sweet touch to balance the dish.
Flavor Profile: The plantains become slightly crisp and caramelized on the outside, with a soft, sweet interior. Thus, this texture pairs beautifully with the spiced chicken and rice.
Cooking Tip: For a healthier option, bake the plantains with a little oil. A sprinkle of cinnamon or brown sugar can further enhance their sweetness.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice
Why It Works: Although Arroz con Pollo already includes rice, cilantro lime rice adds a fresh, citrusy twist. This zesty side dish lightens the meal, contrasting the rich spices in the chicken. Thus, it’s an excellent choice to boost flavors.
Flavor Profile: The zesty lime and fresh cilantro offer a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness of the main dish.
Tip: This side is great for guests who prefer a lighter rice option with a refreshing kick alongside Arroz con Pollo.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Why It Works: Grilled corn on the cob is a classic Latin-inspired side. Its smoky sweetness perfectly complements Arroz con Pollo, and the char from grilling adds depth to the natural sweetness of the corn.
Flavor Profile: The smoky kernels contrast with the rich chicken and rice. Furthermore, chili powder and lime juice enhance this simple dish.
Pro Tip: Top grilled corn with queso fresco or a spoonful of Mexican crema for a creamy finish.
5. Avocado Salsa
Why It Works: Rich and creamy, Avocado Salsa offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty Arroz con Pollo. If you want to add freshness to your meal, this salsa is perfect. The smooth texture of the avocados balances the spices in the chicken and rice.
Flavor Profile: Creamy avocado, tangy lime, and fresh cilantro combine to elevate the dish. For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños.
Tip: This salsa is quick to prepare and can double as a topping for Arroz con Pollo or serve as a side dish.
6. Mango Slaw
Why It Works: For a tropical touch, Mango Slaw adds a fresh, crunchy element to your meal. The sweet mango pairs with the crunch of cabbage and a tangy lime vinaigrette, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich Arroz con Pollo.
Flavor Profile: The sweetness of the mango and the crispness of cabbage balance the savory chicken and rice. Meanwhile, the lime dressing adds a zesty bite.
External Link: For a bright, refreshing side, try this Mango Slaw recipe.
7. Roasted Vegetables with Latin Spices
Why It Works: Roasted vegetables seasoned with cumin, paprika, and garlic bring a healthy, flavorful side to the table. If you’re looking for a nutritious balance to the rich chicken and rice, roasted vegetables are a great option.
Flavor Profile: Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes develop a caramelized sweetness when roasted. In addition, the spices tie the flavors back to the main dish.
Health Angle: Roasted vegetables provide a balanced, nutritious side for those wanting to add more veggies without sacrificing flavor.
8. Tostones (Twice-Fried Plantains)
Why It Works: Tostones, or twice-fried green plantains, add a savory, crispy texture to contrast with the soft rice and chicken in Arroz con Pollo. Moreover, the crunchy texture and mild saltiness balance the rich flavors of the dish.
Flavor Profile: The crispy exterior and starchy interior offer a satisfying contrast to the tender chicken and rice.
Pro Tip: Serve tostones with a garlic dipping sauce or sprinkle sea salt for extra flavor.
9. Yuca Fries
Why It Works: Yuca fries, made from a starchy root vegetable, provide a crispy alternative to regular fries. They are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a mild, nutty flavor that pairs well with the spices in Arroz con Pollo.
Flavor Profile: These fries have a light, crispy texture with a mild, nutty flavor. Moreover, they soak up seasonings beautifully, complementing the dish’s spices.
Cooking Tip: Serve yuca fries with a spicy garlic aioli or sprinkle them with adobo seasoning for an extra kick.
10. Green Side Salad with Tropical Fruits
Why It Works: A green salad with tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, or papaya adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty Arroz con Pollo. The sweetness of the fruit pairs with the savory chicken, while the fresh greens add a crisp texture.
Flavor Profile: The combination of fresh greens, juicy tropical fruits, and a tangy citrus vinaigrette creates a balanced, flavorful salad. Thus, it brightens the meal and complements Arroz con Pollo perfectly.
Healthy Option: This salad is ideal for those looking to keep the meal light and healthy while still enjoying bold tropical flavors.
Refreshing Drink Options for Chicken and Rice
1. Classic Sangria
Why It Works: Sangria is a traditional Spanish drink that pairs wonderfully with Latin-inspired meals. The fruity, slightly tangy flavors of red wine and citrus balance the richness of Arroz con Pollo, making it a refreshing choice.
Flavor Profile: The sweetness of the fruit combined with the slight acidity of the red wine creates the perfect counterbalance to the savory, spiced chicken and rice.
Pro Tip: Make your sangria a few hours ahead to allow the flavors to develop fully. Garnish with slices of orange and berries for an extra burst of color and flavor.
2. Mojitos
Why It Works: A mojito, with its fresh mint and lime, provides a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of Arroz con Pollo. If you’re looking for a refreshing drink to pair with Arroz con Pollo, a mojito is an excellent choice. This classic Cuban cocktail cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing the meal.
Flavor Profile: The combination of lime, mint, and a hint of sweetness offers a light, zesty flavor that complements the spices in the chicken and rice.
Pro Tip: Use fresh lime juice and mint leaves for the best flavor. Serve it over crushed ice for an extra cool and refreshing touch.
Conclusion:
When paired with the right sides and drinks, Arroz con Pollo becomes more than just a meal—it transforms into an unforgettable experience. For instance, the sweet caramelization of Sweet Plantains, the crisp bite of Grilled Corn, or the refreshing crunch of Mango Slaw each adds a unique dimension to the dish. Furthermore, if you’re wondering what to pair with Arroz con Pollo, don’t forget the drinks! A fruity Sangria or a refreshing Mojito will perfectly complement the dish, rounding out the flavors and cleansing your palate.
Additionally, with so many pairing options available, you can easily mix and match to create a meal that suits your preferences. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, fresh, or tangy, these combinations will ensure that your Arroz con Pollo meal is complete and satisfying.
If you’re still struggling with what to pair with Arroz con Pollo, especially when trying to perfect the texture of your rice, don’t worry—check out our tips in Why is my Arroz con Pollo mushy? for helpful advice.
FAQs
1. What are the best vegetable sides for Arroz con Pollo?
Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes are excellent sides for Arroz con Pollo. Season them with cumin and paprika to tie the flavors back to the main dish.
2. Can I serve Arroz con Pollo with spicy side dishes?
Yes, spicy sides like Avocado Salsa with diced jalapeños or a spicy Black Bean Salad can add a kick to your meal and complement the savory chicken and rice.
3. What drinks go well with Arroz con Pollo?
Classic Sangria and Mojitos are ideal drinks to serve with Arroz con Pollo. Both offer fruity and refreshing flavors that balance out the richness of the dish
4. Are there healthy side options for Arroz con Pollo?
Absolutely! Green Salad with Tropical Fruits and Roasted Vegetables are both healthy, nutritious options that pair well with the dish.
5. Can I make these sides ahead of time?
Many of these sides, such as Black Bean Salad and Cilantro Lime Rice, can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them convenient options for busy cooks.