From the short-grain Arborio rice used in creamy arroz con leche to long-grain white used for arroz blanco, rice holds a cherished place in the heart of Cuban cuisine. Rice isn’t just a side dish; it’s the foundation of many of our Cuban dishes.

Each Cuban rice reflects the fusion of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences that have shaped the island’s culture. The primary goal of this post is to introduce you to 10 mouthwatering Cuban rice recipes that will transport your taste buds to the cozy kitchens of Cuban households.

From classics like arroz con pollo to delicious gems like arroz con camarones, get ready to bring one of these Cuban rice recipes into your own home.

1
Staub dutch oven with cooked Cuban yellow rice with chicken (arroz con pollo)
4.58 from 378 reviews

Cuban Arroz Con Pollo (Cuban Chicken + Rice)

This authentic Cuban Arroz con Pollo recipe is Mami’s recipe so you know it’s a good one! Tender chicken, simmered with Cuban sofrito, aromatic spices, Sazon, and homemade chicken stock, mixed in with fluffy yellow rice. It's an effortless one-pot dinner that practically prepares itself.
2
4.49 from 39 reviews

Arroz Blanco (How To Make White Rice)

Arroz Blanco is an easy white rice side dish typically served with Cuban black beans or Cuban picadillo. Ready in 25 minutes with just 4 ingredients! All you need is long-grain rice, water, oil, and salt. Learn how to make it on the stovetop or in a rice cooker. Both methods are practically fool-proof!
3
4.75 from 12 reviews

Cuban Rice and Beans Recipe (Arroz con Frijoles Negro)

Arroz con frijoles negro is a classic Cuban rice and beans recipe made with silky, savory black beans served on top of fluffy white rice. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, it will be a delicious meal for any day of the week!
4
4.65 from 172 reviews

Moros y Cristianos/Arroz Congri (Cuban Black Beans + Rice)

My family calls it Congri, you call them Moros y Cristianos. No matter what you call them, this Cuban black beans & rice is a classic Cuban side dish with tons of flavor! Made with long-grain rice, black beans, Cuban sofrito, crispy bacon, and fragrant spices, this classic dish can be prepared two ways: traditionally with dried beans or quickly with canned beans.
5
4.92 from 25 reviews

Easy Arroz Amarillo (Spanish Yellow Rice)

Arroz Amarillo is a seasoned Spanish yellow rice dish made with white rice that's colored with annatto powder and cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sofrito sauce. This 30-minute yellow rice recipe is a classic staple in Cuban cuisine and a delicious Cuban side dish for pork, ham, chicken, beef, or fish.
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4.87 from 23 reviews

Arroz con Camarones (Yellow Rice with Shrimp)

The perfect Sunday dinner! This mouthwatering arroz con camarones dish is made with Spanish yellow rice, a rich Cuban sofrito, aromatic spices, and succulent shrimp simmered in a simple homemade shrimp stock (which you can make in advance!). The rice cooks in just 25 minutes once the homemade shrimp stock is made.
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large skillet with chicken sausage and yellow rice
4.58 from 42 reviews

Arroz Con Salchichas (Cuban Yellow Rice with Vienna Sausages)

Arroz con salchichas is a Cuban yellow rice dish cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sofrito sauce and served with sliced Vienna sausages. Comfort food at its finest! This delicious Cuban 30-minute dinner staple is the perfect, quick weeknight dinner for any day of the week.
8
4.53 from 142 reviews

Easy Cuban Arroz Imperial (Imperial Rice!)

Cuban Arroz Imperial aka Imperial Rice. A classic Cuban comfort food dish made with layers of yellow rice, shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and melted cheese. Perfect for parties, large crowds, and any time of year!
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4.63 from 16 reviews

Arroz Con Pollo A La Chorrera

A soupier version of the classic Cuban arroz con pollo recipe made with beer, wine, and chicken broth  Tons of flavor and the best Sunday dinner meal! 
10
cuban rice pudding with ground cinnamon sprinkled on top
4.49 from 64 reviews

Arroz Con Leche (Cuban Rice Pudding)

Arroz con Leche is an easy-to-make, creamy Cuban rice pudding made with sweetened condensed milk, cinnamon, and lemon zest. The perfect dessert for any day of the week and it's unbelievably delicious!

As you delve into the world of Cuban rice recipes, you’ll discover a universe of flavors, colors, and aromas. The versatility of these dishes makes them suitable for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Don’t hesitate to experiment, adapt, and make them your own.

Which one are you making this week?