Mexican Chicken Rice

Spice up your weeknight dinner routine with this delicious and easy Mexican Chicken Rice recipe! Packed with flavor and simple to make, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 cup white rice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

• In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until no longer pink. Remove from skillet and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add the rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and taco seasoning. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
• Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
• Sprinkle cheese over the top and let melt.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A: Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

• Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?

A: Absolutely, frozen corn can be used as a substitute for canned corn in this recipe.

• Q: Is there a low-sodium option for the chicken broth?

A: Yes, you can use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the sodium content of the dish.

• Q: Can I add extra vegetables to this recipe?

A: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to customize this dish to your liking.

• Q: How can I make this dish spicier?

A: To add more heat, you can increase the amount of taco seasoning or add some chopped jalapenos.

• Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken if you want to save time in the cooking process.

• Q: What can I serve with Mexican Chicken Rice?

A: This dish pairs well with a side of guacamole, salsa, or a fresh salad.

• Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

• Q: How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?

A: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Q: Can I freeze Mexican Chicken Rice?

A: Yes, this dish can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Helpful tips:

• For added flavor, sauté some onions and bell peppers with the chicken.
• Top with avocado slices for a creamy addition to the dish.
• Make it spicy by adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
• Try using different types of beans like pinto or kidney beans for variety.
• Serve with a side of lime wedges for a pop of citrus flavor.
• For a crunch, add some crushed tortilla chips on top before serving.
• Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or queso fresco.
• Add a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy finish.
• For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add extra veggies or tofu.
• Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals later on.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the rice with a splash of lime juice for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Marinate the chicken in Mexican spices for extra taste before cooking.
• Add a can of diced green chilies for an added kick of heat.
• Use roasted corn for a deeper, smokier flavor profile.
• Try cooking the dish in a slow cooker for a hands-off cooking experience.
• Top with fresh avocado slices and a squeeze of lime juice for a bright finishing touch.
• Experiment with different types of salsa to change up the flavor profile.
• Make a double batch of the taco seasoning and store it in an airtight container for future use.
• Garnish with fresh chopped jalapenos for an added layer of heat.
• Serve the dish with a side of Mexican rice and beans for a complete meal.