Mexican Chicken And Rice
A flavorful Mexican-inspired chicken and rice dish featuring tender chicken, sweet corn, and a mild salsa, all topped with melted Cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting family meal, it combines bold flavors with easy preparation and hearty ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper; cook and stir until the chicken is cooked through.
- Add frozen sweet corn, chicken broth, and mild salsa; bring to a boil.
- Stir in instant rice and cover the skillet; remove from heat.
- Let stand for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Let stand for 2 minutes, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and spices before cooking. You can substitute brown rice for instant rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for hot salsa or add diced jalapeños. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to include other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, similar to Chicken Fajita Sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of fresh guacamole or a simple green salad for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds a nice touch. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Enchilada(Microwave) for a festive Mexican-themed dinner or try it alongside your favorite Mexican recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Chicken And Rice contains roughly 791 calories, with 27g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1851mg per serving (80% 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 other types of chicken?
Yes, you can use thighs or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. If using rotisserie chicken, add it toward the end of the cooking process to warm it through without overcooking.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little broth if needed.
What can I substitute for instant rice?
If you don't have instant rice, you can use regular long-grain rice, but you'll need to cook it separately according to package instructions. Just add the cooked rice to the skillet with the other ingredients at the end for a similar texture.
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).