Dry chicken pieces well with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
Heat oil at medium-high heat in a large, wide saucepan with 2-3 inch sides or in a Dutch oven (choose a pan with a lid). Once oil is hot, add chicken pieces. Brown for 3-4 minutes per side or until a light brown color is achieved. Remove chicken to a plate.
Add onion and green pepper to same saucepan where chicken was cooked. Saute until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and saute for about 30 seconds more.
Add tomatoes, broth, wine, Bay leaf, all spices, and 1 ½ teaspoons salt & ¼ teaspoon pepper. Stir, cover and bring to a quick boil over high heat.
Once bubbling, stir in rice and peas. Nestle chicken pieces into rice and bring to a quick boil again. Once boiling, cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes.
Serve garnished with jarred roasted red pepper strips and lime wedges, if desired.
