Description
This Mexican Chicken and Rice Dinner is a one-pan meal loaded with juicy chicken, spiced rice, and vibrant flavors. With tender chicken thighs, aromatic spices, tomatoes, and beans, this dish is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner. Serve it with avocado, sour cream, or fresh lime wedges for an extra kick!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 1 1/2 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Rice:
- 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) chicken broth
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Avocado slices
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Add the rice, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir to coat the rice with seasonings.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, and corn (if using). Stir well.
- Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture.
- Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 75°C).
- Remove from heat, let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, and shredded cheese. Serve hot!
Notes
- Use brown rice instead of white rice, but increase cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
- Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if preferred.
- For extra spice, add a diced jalapeño or more chili powder.
- Serve with tortillas or a side of guacamole for an even heartier meal.