One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice
A vibrant and healthy one-pan dish combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a blend of spices, making it perfect for busy nights and meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts Brings lean protein to the dish.
- 1 cup uncooked rice The foundation of this dish, creating a fluffy texture.
- 1 cup chicken broth Infuses the rice and chicken with savory goodness.
- 1 cup sweet corn Adds sweetness and texture.
- 2 medium jalapeños For that zesty punch—adjust to your heat preference.
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese Melty goodness that binds the dish together.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro Brightens the dish with a refreshing flavor.
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp black pepper Adds a warm, flavorful kick.
- 1 tsp sea salt Essential for enhancing the dish's overall taste.
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper Introduces a zesty warmth.
- 1 tsp ground cumin Offers depth and warmth.
- 4 cloves garlic Provides an aromatic, savory note.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients on the counter.
- Crush the garlic and chop the jalapeños, setting them aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with black pepper, sea salt, cayenne pepper, and ground cumin.
- Rinse the uncooked rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, sauté crushed garlic and chopped jalapeños for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, and sweet corn.
- Nestle the cooked chicken back into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Sprinkle the shredded white cheddar cheese over the top in the last few minutes of cooking.
Serving
- Fluff the rice gently and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal hot!
Notes
For best results, marinate chicken for 30 minutes before cooking. Use low-sodium chicken broth for a heart-healthy option. Consider adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving.