Description
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One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice is a quick, flavor-packed meal featuring tender chicken, fragrant spices, and perfectly cooked rice. Ready in 35 minutes, this easy one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.
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Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken – Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano.
- Sauté the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables – In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
- Toast the Rice – Stir in the uncooked rice, allowing it to toast for 1-2 minutes to enhance its texture and flavor.
- Combine Ingredients – Pour in the chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, and lime juice. Stir well.
- Simmer with Chicken – Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture.
- Cook Until Done – Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve – Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh cilantro and shredded cheese (if using). Serve hot with lime wedges.
Notes
- Protein Swap – Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different twist.
- Spice Level – Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Grain Options – Substitute brown rice or quinoa, adjusting the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetable Additions – Include zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrients.
- Cheesy Finish – Stir in a handful of shredded cheese at the end for a creamy touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: One-Pan, Stovetop
- Cuisine: mexican inspired
Keywords: Mexican chicken and rice, one-pan meal, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, 35-minute meal