Cheesy Mexican Chicken 'N Rice
Creamy and flavorful Mexican-inspired chicken and rice dish featuring cheese, corn, and spices, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a large skillet with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add chicken; cook and stir on medium-high heat for 3 to 4 minutes or until cooked through. Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Add process cheese spread, corn, picante, chili powder, and cumin (if using).
- Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes or until cheese spread is completely melted.
- Serve over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice and garlic before cooking. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with any creamy cheese sauce or shredded cheese for a different texture. If you're looking for a healthier option, use quinoa instead of rice. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken or make a larger batch of 'Mexican recipes' for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a heartier meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of black beans or a fresh green salad. For a complete feast, consider serving with tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole on the side. This cheesy chicken dish is also a fantastic filling for burritos or tacos.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed thoroughly. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Mexican Chicken 'N Rice contains roughly 576 calories, with 26g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (85% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 901mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. This will help ensure even cooking and prevent any food safety issues. If you're short on time, you can also use pre-cooked chicken to speed up the process.
What can I substitute for Cheez Whiz?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use shredded cheddar cheese or a homemade cheese sauce. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese spread. Just keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may vary slightly.
How spicy is this dish?
The spiciness of this dish depends on the picante sauce you choose. Old El Paso thick and chunky picante is typically mild, but if you prefer more heat, opt for a spicy version or add diced jalapeños to the mix. Adjust the chili powder to your taste as well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).