Photo from pinterest.com

Locrio is a classic Dominican dish that blends rice with seasoned meat, typically chicken, to create a flavorful one-pot meal. Often referred to as the Dominican version of paella, Locrio is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. This dish is rich in flavors, with each bite offering a perfect balance of seasoned meat and tender rice, infused with spices and vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Meat:

2 lbs (0.9 kg) chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tsp (5 g) salt

1/2 tsp (2.5 g) black pepper

1 tsp (5 g) oregano

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp (30 ml) lime juice

2 tbsp (30 ml) oil

For the Locrio:

2 cups (0.45 kg) long-grain rice

4 cups (0.96 liters) water or chicken broth

1 small onion, chopped

1 bell pepper, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup (120 ml) tomato sauce

1/2 tsp (2.5 g) cumin

1/2 tsp (2.5 g) paprika

1/2 cup (75 g) frozen peas (optional)

1/4 cup (30 g) chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, oregano, minced garlic, and lime juice. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Cook the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the Rice and Seasonings: Add the rice to the pot, stirring to coat it with the vegetable mixture. Pour in the tomato sauce, cumin, and paprika, stirring to combine. Return the chicken to the pot and mix everything together.

Cook the Locrio: Pour in the water or chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If using, stir in the peas and cilantro during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Fluff and Serve: Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Serving

Locrio is best served hot, straight from the pot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or slices of avocado for a complete meal. It’s a perfect dish for a family dinner, offering a comforting and filling experience that everyone will love.

Locrio is a delicious and satisfying Dominican dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With its tender chicken, seasoned rice, and a hint of spice, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for any occasion, Locrio brings a taste of the Dominican Republic to your table with every bite.