Arroz imperial

Although arroz imperial is often served as a side dish in Cuba, it is hearty enough to be served as a main dish, on its own, a fact that can be proven just by looking at the extremely long list of ingredients used to make it: chicken pieces, bacon, onions, green peppers, garlic, tomato sauce, lime juice, dry sherry, peas, rice, chicken broth, mayonnaise, and grated cheese. When all the components have been prepared, they are assembled and layered like a casserole, then topped with cheese and baked until the top is slightly browned. The origins of arroz imperial are somewhat murky, as it is still unclear when and where it originated in Cuba.