Jalapeno Chicken And Rice
A flavorful baked chicken and rice dish featuring creamy jalapeno and pimiento flavors topped with melted mozzarella, perfect for a comforting family meal with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken completely, then remove from broth, cool, and debone.
- Cook the yellow rice in the remaining chicken broth, adding more water if necessary.
- Once the rice has cooked completely, add the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, pimientos, and chopped jalapeno peppers.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more chopped jalapeno peppers or using pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, it can be a great time-saver for this dish. You can also substitute brown rice for yellow rice for a healthier option. This dish is reminiscent of American recipes like Tetrazzini, making it a comforting choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Jalapeno Chicken and Rice alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with cornbread, enhancing the comfort food experience. For a fun twist, you can top it with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. This will help maintain the creaminess and texture of the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jalapeno Chicken And Rice contains roughly 166 calories, with 10g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 945mg per serving (41% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses to enhance the flavor profile. Each cheese will bring its unique taste and texture, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
What if I don't have yellow rice?
If yellow rice is unavailable, you can use plain white rice or brown rice, adjusting the seasonings to add a bit of saffron or turmeric for color and flavor. The dish will still turn out delicious with these alternatives.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to serve, bake as instructed, possibly adding a few extra minutes if it's coming from the fridge.
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).