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! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish offers a delightful combination of tender chicken, zesty spices, and creamy cheese that will satisfy everyone at the table. Its simplicity and quick cooking time make it an ideal choice for those looking to whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in just 40 minutes.
• One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup is guaranteed since everything cooks in a single pan.
• Flavor Packed: Bold Tex-Mex spices and fresh ingredients create a deliciously satisfying dish.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices and toppings to suit your taste; add more veggies or swap the cheese for your favorite variety!
• Family Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Deep skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Deep skillet or saucepan: Ideal for searing chicken and simmering rice all in one pot, saving you time and effort.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precision when adding ingredients for consistent results every time.

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!

For the Chicken

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast (cut into cubes)
• 5 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Vegetables

• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 green bell pepper (diced)
• 1 jalapeno (seeds removed and finely chopped)

For Flavoring

• 2-3 tablespoons taco seasoning (adjust to taste)

For the Base

• 1 cup long grain rice (rinsed)
• 2 cups passata or plain tomato puree
• 2 cups chicken broth

For Protein & Extras

• 1 (15 oz.) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup canned sweet corn (about 7 oz, drained)

For Topping

• 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​

Getting started on this flavorful dish is easy! Follow these simple steps to create your own 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, diced red bell pepper, diced 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, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine everything before bringing it all to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook Covered

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

Step 5: Add Sweetcorn

Stir in the sweet corn evenly throughout the mixture.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

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

Step 7: Serve

Top with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot!

How to Serve Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice​

Serving Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions on top for a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Fresh Cilantro: Add chopped cilantro for a fresh, herbaceous touch that complements the spices.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add creaminess and balance the heat from the jalapeno.

Serve with Warm Tortillas

• Soft Flour Tortillas: Warm tortillas on the skillet for a soft wrap option that pairs perfectly with the cheesy chicken and rice.
• Crispy Corn Tortilla Chips: Serve crunchy tortilla chips on the side for a fun texture contrast and great for scooping!

Pair with a Salad

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado provides freshness to each bite.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This flavorful corn salad brings sweetness that complements the spicy chicken dish.

How to Perfect Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice​

Perfecting your Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice involves paying attention to details. Here are some tips for achieving an impeccable dish every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go; add more taco seasoning or jalapenos based on your heat preference.
• Cook Rice Properly: Ensure your rice is rinsed well to remove excess starch, which helps avoid stickiness.
• Monitor Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on the cooking process; if it looks too dry, add a splash more broth or water.
• Customize Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for creaminess.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit covered after cooking helps meld flavors together before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice​

To round out your meal, consider these delightful side dishes that complement Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice beautifully.

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip seasoned with lime juice, salt, and garlic adds richness.
2. Refried Beans: These provide a hearty addition, perfect for scooping alongside your main dish.
3. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob coated in mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder offers sweet and spicy flavors.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapenos brightens up the plate.
5. Spanish Rice: Flavored with tomatoes, garlic, and spices, this classic pairs well as an additional starch.
6. Cucumber Salad: Lightly dressed cucumbers mixed with red onion provide a refreshing crunch that balances the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the chicken can result in a bland taste. Always brown the chicken for enhanced flavor.
• Overcooking the Rice: Cooking rice too long can make it mushy. Follow the cooking time closely to achieve perfect texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can dull the dish’s flavor. Taste as you go, and adjust seasoning to your preference.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold ingredients straight from the fridge can disrupt cooking times. Allow ingredients like broth and beans to warm slightly before adding.
• Not Stirring Occasionally: Failing to stir can lead to sticking or uneven cooking. Stir once or twice during simmering for even results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice​

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2-3 months.
• Label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice​

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice?

Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a hearty one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, colorful vegetables, rice, black beans, corn, and plenty of cheese.

Can I customize my Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice?

Yes! You can add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or swap proteins based on your preference for variety.

How do I store leftovers of Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any Mexican blend are excellent choices that melt well and enhance flavor.

Conclusion

This Mexican Cheesy Chicken and Rice recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adapt it with different proteins or vegetables based on your taste. Give this comforting dish a try today!

---