Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice​

This Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a cozy, one-pan dinner that’s packed with bold Tex-Mex flavor! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and melted cheese creates a comforting meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and easily adaptable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with this one-pan meal that minimizes dishwashing.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: Packed with spices and fresh ingredients, this dish delivers a hearty Tex-Mex experience.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap the beans for another variety to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet or saucepan
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Large deep skillet or saucepan: A deep skillet allows for even cooking of the chicken while providing enough space to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting vegetables quickly and safely.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

This Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a cozy, one-pan dinner that’s packed with bold Tex-Mex flavor! Quick, comforting, and totally satisfying!

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast (cut into cubes)
• 5 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 green bell pepper (diced)
• 1 jalapeno (seeds removed and finely chopped)
• 2-3 tablespoons taco seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup long grain rice (rinsed)
• 2 cups passata or plain tomato puree
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (15 oz.) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup canned sweet corn (about 7 oz, drained)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

How to Make Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice​

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat the oil in a large, deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until lightly browned on all sides.

Step 2: Add Veggies & Seasoning

Stir in the minced garlic, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, jalapeno, and taco seasoning. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until everything is well coated and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Base

Add the rinsed rice, passata (or tomato puree), chicken broth, black beans, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine everything before bringing it to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook Covered

Reduce the heat to low. Cover with a lid, allowing it to cook for about 15–20 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Check once or twice to ensure it’s not sticking.

Step 5: Add Sweetcorn

Gently stir in the sweet corn until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Place the pan under a preheated broiler for about 3–5 minutes until bubbly and golden. Alternatively, cover with a lid for about 5–7 minutes until melted.

Step 7: Serve

Top with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro if desired before serving hot!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice!

How to Serve Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice​

This dish is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, the presentation can elevate the experience.

Use Fresh Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch and mild onion flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro enhances the dish with its vibrant taste and color.
• Sour Cream: A dollop on top provides creaminess and balances out the spices.

Pair with Fresh Salsa

• Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and lime adds brightness to each bite.
• Mango Salsa: For a sweet twist, mango salsa offers a delightful contrast to the savory flavors.

Serve with Tortillas

• Corn Tortillas: Warm these up to create soft shells for scooping up the cheesy chicken and rice.
• Flour Tortillas: Great for wrapping around the mixture for a handheld option.

How to Perfect Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice​

Perfecting this dish comes down to attention to detail and a few handy techniques that enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold Seasoning: Always taste as you go; adjusting taco seasoning can make a big difference.
• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• Proper Cooking Time: Ensure the rice is fully cooked by checking it regularly during simmering.
• Layer Flavors: Sauté garlic first before adding other ingredients to build depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice​

Pairing sides with your Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice can enhance the meal’s overall appeal while providing additional flavors.

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that complements the spices perfectly.
2. Refried Beans: Adds protein and pairs well with tortillas.
3. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob topped with cheese and spices.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with your choice of salsa.
5. Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens dressed lightly to balance richness.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled for extra flavor that complements the main dish.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime for an extra burst of freshness.
8. Pineapple Salsa: Sweet pineapple mixed with jalapenos for a fruity kick alongside savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use taco seasoning generously to enhance the dish’s taste.
• Not rinsing the rice: Using unwashed rice can make your dish starchy and gummy. Rinse your rice thoroughly before cooking to achieve a perfect texture.
• Overcrowding the pan: If you add too many ingredients at once, they may not cook evenly. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything is properly seared and flavored.
• Ignoring liquid ratios: Incorrect liquid amounts can lead to undercooked or mushy rice. Follow the recipe precisely regarding broth and tomato puree for best results.
• Forgetting to check doneness: Leaving the rice unattended can cause it to stick or burn. Stir occasionally and check for tenderness as it cooks.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice​

• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice​

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice?

Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a delicious one-pan meal featuring chicken, rice, vegetables, and cheese all cooked together with bold Tex-Mex flavors.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice; however, it will require additional cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly to ensure it’s fully cooked.

How can I customize my Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or spinach. You can also switch up the cheese or include different beans based on your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with beans or tofu, and adjust seasoning as needed for a flavorful vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice is an inviting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends. Its comforting flavors are sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Feel free to customize it by adding different proteins or vegetables according to your taste!

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