Arroz Imperial (Cuban rice)

Arroz Imperial is a classic Cuban comfort dish, loved for its layers of flavorful rice, tender chicken, and creamy cheese, all baked to golden perfection. This crowd-pleaser combines rich, savory ingredients with a hint of Latin spices, making it a centerpiece for family gatherings and celebrations. Easy to customize and utterly satisfying, this dish brings the warmth and heart of Cuban cuisine straight to your table.

Where does Arroz Imperial come from?

Arroz Imperial, or “Imperial Rice,” is a traditional Cuban dish that has become a beloved staple in Cuban-American households. Its origins trace back to Cuba’s rich culinary history, which blends Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. The dish showcases the creativity of Cuban cooking, where simple ingredients are transformed into a flavorful and visually impressive meal meant to feed and delight a crowd.

While the exact origin story of arroz imperial remains unclear, it is widely associated with celebratory occasions, such as birthdays, weddings, and holiday gatherings. Its layered presentation—reminiscent of a lasagna but uniquely Cuban—adds a festive touch to any table. The incorporation of saffron or turmeric to create vibrant yellow rice and the use of cheese reflect European influences, while the seasonings and spices hint at Cuba’s love for bold, aromatic flavors.

Over the years, arroz imperial has traveled beyond Cuba, especially to the United States, where Cuban exiles and immigrants have kept the tradition alive. Variations of the recipe have emerged, adapting to regional ingredients and modern preferences, but the heart of the dish remains the same—a comforting, flavorful creation that embodies the warmth and togetherness of Cuban culture.

Main ingredients needed to make Arroz Imperial

The key ingredients that make arroz imperial special are the saffron or turmeric, shredded chicken (I used plant-based), and cheese.

Saffron or turmeric gives the rice its vibrant golden color and earthy flavor, which serves as the dish’s foundation.

The vegan chicken, often seasoned with garlic, onion, and spices, adds depth and heartiness to the layers. Finally, cheese, typically melted or baked to a golden crust, brings a creamy, rich texture that ties the dish together. These elements combine to create a visually stunning and deeply flavorful meal.

Essential preparation technique

The basic preparation of Arroz Imperial involves cooking and layering its components.

First, the chicken is boiled or simmered with aromatics like onion, garlic, and bay leaves, then shredded and seasoned with tomato-based sofrito or spices for rich flavor. Meanwhile, the rice is cooked separately with saffron or turmeric to achieve its signature golden hue and seasoned with chicken broth for extra depth.

Once the rice and chicken are ready, the dish is assembled in layers, starting with a base of rice, followed by a layer of the shredded chicken, then topped with cheese. This process is repeated until the dish is fully layered, often finishing with a generous cheese topping.

Finally, it is baked until the cheese melts and forms a bubbly golden crust, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

What to serve with Arroz Imperial?

Arroz Imperial is hearty and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the meal.

A fresh green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette adds a light, tangy contrast to the richness of the dish. 

Fried plantains (maduros or tostones) provide a sweet or savory balance and a nod to Cuban cuisine’s roots.

For additional texture, consider serving crusty Cuban bread or soft dinner rolls to scoop up every bite. A side of black beans or bean soup can round out the meal with an earthy, comforting element. To complete the experience, a glass of crisp white wine or a tropical fruit drink pairs beautifully with the flavors of the dish.

Ideas for Variations

1. Seafood Arroz Imperial: Swap the shredded chicken for a mix of seafood, such as shrimp, crab, or fish, lightly sautéed with garlic, onions, and a splash of white wine. This variation brings a coastal flair to the dish, complementing the golden rice with the delicate flavors of the sea.
2. Vegetarian Arroz Imperial: Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach, seasoned with spices and sofrito. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the rice, and add layers of creamy cheese or a plant-based alternative to maintain the dish’s signature texture.
3. Spicy Arroz Imperial: Add a kick by incorporating spicy chorizo or seasoned ground beef in place of the chicken, and mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat. Pair the layers with sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese to enhance the bold flavors, creating a spicier, heartier version of the classic dish.

Other recipes to try

• Cuban Rice and Beans
• Cuban Picadillo
• Easy Pickle Fries
• Chickpea Mash Green Bean Casserole
• Easy Homemade Lasagna

I hope you love making and enjoying this delicious Arroz Imperial as much as I do! It’s the perfect dish to bring people together, and I’d love to see your beautiful creations.

Snap a picture and share it on Instagram or Facebook — don’t forget to tag me so I can celebrate with you! If you tried the recipe, please leave a comment below with your thoughts and a star rating; your feedback means so much and helps others discover this recipe too.

Happy cooking!

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