🇨🇺 Cuban Cuisine

Arroz Imperial

Imperial Rice Casserole

Prep Time 25 min

Servings 8

Difficulty Medium

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.

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.