Arroz Imperial

Name: Arroz Imperial
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked yellow rice (with saffron or bijol); 500g shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup mayonnaise; 200g cream cheese, softened; 2 cups shredded mozzarella; 1 red bell pepper, roasted and sliced; 1 cup green peas; 1 onion, diced and sautéed; Salt and pepper

Arroz Imperial (ah-ROHS eem-peh-ree-AHL)

Imperial Rice Casserole

⏱ Prep Time 25 min

📈 Difficulty Medium

👥 Servings

🔥 Calories 518 kcal

A layered casserole of saffron-yellow rice, shredded chicken in creamy sauce, and melted cheese, baked until golden — Cuba's answer to celebration comfort food.

Nutrition & Info

Protein 32.0g

Carbs 48.0g

Fat 22.0g

Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

gluten-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ dairy

Equipment Needed

large baking dish saucepan mixing bowls oven

Presentation Guide

Vessel: large baking dish

Garnishes: roasted peppers, parsley

Accompaniments: maduros, salad

Ingredients

4 cups cooked yellow rice (with saffron or bijol)
500g shredded cooked chicken
1 cup mayonnaise
200g cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded mozzarella
1 red bell pepper, roasted and sliced
1 cup green peas
1 onion, diced and sautéed
Salt and pepper

Instructions

1
Mix shredded chicken with mayonnaise, cream cheese, sautéed onion, and peas. Season well.
2
Layer half the yellow rice in a greased baking dish, pressing firmly.
3
Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the rice.
4
Top with the remaining yellow rice, pressing down.
5
Cover with shredded mozzarella and roasted pepper strips.
6
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 min until cheese is melted and golden.

💡

Did You Know?

Arroz imperial is the dish Cuban mothers make when they want to impress — it appears at every birthday party, quinceañera, and holiday table.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

large baking dish
saucepan
mixing bowls
oven

Garnishing

roasted peppers, parsley

Accompaniments

maduros, salad

The Story Behind Arroz Imperial

Arroz imperial emerged in mid-20th century Cuban cuisine as a celebration dish that combined accessible ingredients into something lavish. The layered construction transforms simple rice and chicken into a showpiece casserole. It became a staple of Cuban-American celebrations, particularly in Miami, where every Cuban party features at least one massive tray.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed parties and celebrations 📜 Origins: Mid-20th century Cuban cuisine

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