Name: One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup long grain rice (white or brown); 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tsp olive oil; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro (optional)

Print Recipe

The aroma of One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice wafting through your kitchen is enough to make any hungry soul drop their plans for the evening. Picture this: tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and rice simmering together in a symphony of spices that would make even your neighbor’s cat meow with envy. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes This dish is not just a meal; it’s a fiesta in a pan!

Every time I whip up this delightful recipe, I am transported back to my childhood kitchen where family dinners were filled with laughter and the delightful sizzle of cooking. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me; your taste buds will be dancing like nobody’s watching.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This one pan wonder makes dinner prep a breeze, allowing flavors to meld beautifully
You can customize ingredients based on what you have available
The colorful presentation makes every plate look festive and inviting
Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings!

I remember one time serving this dish to friends, and their delighted reactions made me feel like a culinary superstar. It’s the kind of recipe that keeps you coming back for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts, adjusting based on the number of hungry mouths. Chicken and Butternut Squash Orzo.
Bell Peppers: Grab red, yellow, or green peppers for color and sweetness; they add both flavor and visual appeal.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth; choose yellow onions for sweetness or red for a sharper bite.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key; they infuse the dish with an aromatic punch that elevates everything.
Long Grain Rice: The foundation of this dish; use white or brown rice for different textures and nutrients.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping the flavors rich and comforting. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole recipe.
Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Chili Powder): These spices bring out the Mexican flair; adjust levels based on your heat preference.
Olive Oil: For sautéing, choose quality olive oil to enhance flavors while keeping everything moist.
Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds brightness at the end; don’t skip it if you’re a fan!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your bell peppers, onion, and mincing the garlic. Prepping these ingredients early will streamline your cooking process—trust me on this one!

Sauté Vegetables First: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers until they soften and release sweet aromas—about 5-7 minutes should do it!

Add Chicken Next: Toss in diced chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook until they’re browned on all sides—around 6-8 minutes—making sure they’re cooked through but still juicy.

Mix in Rice and Spices: Stir in rinsed rice along with cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This step enhances every grain with flavor as it cooks.

Pour in Broth: Carefully add chicken broth to the pan while making sure everything is well combined. Bring it to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low.

Simmer Until Cooked Through: Cover with a lid and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender and has absorbed all that delicious broth goodness.

Once you’ve mastered these steps, you’ll have yourself a fiesta-worthy One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice that tastes like happiness served on a plate! Enjoy every savory bite! hearty Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup.

You Must Know

The One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice recipe is not only easy to prepare but also full of vibrant flavors
Using just one pan means less cleanup, making it a weeknight favorite
Enjoy the delightful aroma as it simmers, filling your home with warmth and comfort

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then add rice and seasonings before pouring in broth for a perfectly cooked meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or add black beans and corn for extra texture and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavors; they enhance the overall dish
Make sure to taste as you go, adjusting seasonings to your liking
A splash of lime juice just before serving adds a refreshing zing that elevates every bite

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my cousin’s birthday party, where everyone went back for seconds, proving that delicious food makes any gathering memorable.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Is this dish spicy?

The spice level is mild; feel free to add jalapeños for extra heat if desired.

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

delicious Chicken Divan recipe.

You can easily substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp based on your preference. For more inspiration, check out this One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe.