Mom's Spanish Chicken and Rice

Step 1

Place onion, bell pepper, garlic, and cilantro in a chopper or food processor to chop fine.

Step 2

In a large heavy pot with a good fitting lid such as a Dutch oven; heat 1 tsp of oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Season chicken pieces with salt and sauté until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4

Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 5

Heat remaining oil in skillet, then add onions, peppers, garlic and cilantro.

Step 6

Sauté, stirring frequently, about 5 minutes.

Step 7

Add water, beer, tomato sauce, chicken bouillon, sazon, chicken and salt.

Step 8

Cook 10-12 minutes on medium heat.

Step 9

Add frozen mixed vegetables, alcaparrado (or pimientos) with a little of the brine (liquid) from the olive jar, and rice.

Step 10

Stir and bring to a boil.

Step 11

Reduce heat to medium low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally until water boils down and barely skims the top.

Step 12

Once the water level reaches the top of the rice, cover with a tight fitting lid so no steam escapes and cook 25-30 minutes. (Tip: if your lid doesn't have a good tight fit, place a paper towel over the pot then cover as pictured below)

Step 13

Shut heat off and let the pot sit wit the cover on an additional 10 minutes.

Step 14

Remove lid and fluff with a fork.