We have been experiencing frigid nights in Los Angeles, which is unusual weather for our mild climate. The other night, I pulled out some recipes from an old folder and found this time-tested staple from a time when our daughter was young. It had all the characteristics for casual cold-weather fare: creamy and comforting. And it’s a big hit for little ones as well as adults. And did I mention how seriously simple it is to put together? “The poor man’s paella” and “a Mexican party dish with a Spanish ancestry” are two descriptions given to this homey one-dish rice main course. According to Jacqueline Higuera McMahan, author of “California Rancho Cooking,” arroz con pollo was served at large parties on the California ranches when it was not possible to barbecue outdoors. I like to add fresh mint leaves to lightly infuse the rice lightly and punch up the flavor. …