Name: One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 white onion, diced finely; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 teaspoon kosher salt (and freshly ground pepper to taste); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice; 1 10 oz red enchilada sauce; 1 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained; 1 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican-blend cheese; Sour cream; Diced tomatoes; Diced avocado; Cilantro

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup, then look no further than this One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice. Bursting with flavors and packed with ingredients that create a comforting dinner, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a cozy meal without a lot of fuss. With tender chicken, vibrant spices, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a one-stop meal that everyone will love.

Why Cooks Rave About It

One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice is a favorite among home cooks for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With everything cooked in a single pan, clean-up is a breeze. The flavors meld beautifully, and the dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Additionally, it’s highly customizable. Whether you prefer a bit more spice or additional toppings, this dish can easily adapt to your taste preferences. Finally, the heartiness of the chicken and rice, combined with the richness of the cheese and the zesty flavors, make it a crowd-pleaser for families and gatherings alike.

What Goes In

To create this flavorful One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice, gather the following ingredients:

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 white onion, diced finely
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican-blend cheese

Optional Toppings:

Sour cream
Diced tomatoes
Diced avocado
Cilantro

Equipment & Tools

To make this One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice, you’ll need the following:

Large skillet: A wide, deep skillet works best for even cooking.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing the ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Knife and cutting board: To prepare your chicken and veggies.

Make One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice: A Simple Method

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

In your large skillet, heat the 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely diced white onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the skillet. Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burnt.

Step 4: Incorporate Rice and Liquids

Add 1 cup of uncooked long grain white rice to the skillet and stir to combine. Then, pour in the can of red enchilada sauce, the can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (with their juices), and 1 cup of water. Sprinkle in the ground cumin and stir everything together.

Step 5: Simmer and Cook

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This will allow the rice to absorb all the delicious flavors and cook perfectly.

Step 6: Add Cheese

After 20 minutes, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican-blend cheese over the top. Cover again and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cheese has melted, fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot. Top with your choice of optional toppings like sour cream, diced tomatoes, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

This One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice is versatile and can be adjusted based on seasonal ingredients:

Spring: Add fresh asparagus or peas for a pop of color and freshness.
Summer: Include fresh corn or bell peppers to enhance the flavor.
Fall: Stir in roasted butternut squash for a sweet, nutty flavor.
Winter: Incorporate kale or spinach for a hearty, nutritious touch.

Learn from These Mistakes

While making One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice is straightforward, here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

Not cooking the chicken thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding other ingredients.
Overcooking the rice: Follow the simmering time closely to avoid mushy rice.
Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dish to sit after cooking helps all the flavors meld and the cheese to melt perfectly.
Using too much liquid: Stick to the recommended amounts for the best texture.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice is perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat it:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to revive the texture.

Quick Q&A

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so follow the package instructions for best results.

What can I substitute for chicken?

Feel free to use ground turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this dish spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted based on the enchilada sauce and diced tomatoes you choose. For milder flavors, opt for a mild enchilada sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

Final Bite

One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this dish brings everyone together around the table, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. With its vibrant colors and comforting textures, it’s bound to become a staple in your weekly rotation. So gather your ingredients, grab that skillet, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, hassle-free dinner.

This One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also embodies the essence of home-cooked comfort food. Every forkful is filled with tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a melty layer of cheese that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Don’t forget to experiment with seasonal ingredients and toppings to truly make this dish your own. Happy cooking!