Description
Mexican Chicken and Rice is a bold, one-pot meal made with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice simmered in a rich tomato and broth mixture. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s hearty, customizable, and full of classic Mexican flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
- Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onion and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in uncooked rice and toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes with juices and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Return chicken to pan, nestling into rice. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff rice, garnish with chopped cilantro and lime juice, and serve warm.
Notes
Use chicken thighs for juicier results; breasts for a leaner option.To prevent sticking, keep heat low and avoid stirring too often while simmering.Brown rice can be used but will need longer cook time and more liquid.Fire-roasted tomatoes add extra depth of flavor.Top with shredded cheese or avocado slices for added richness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
