Mexican Rice Con Pollo
A flavorful Mexican-inspired rice dish with tender chicken, creamy sour cream, cheesy topping, and black olives, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare rice according to package directions.
- Add shredded cooked chicken and sour cream to the cooked rice and stir well.
- Transfer the mixture to a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with nacho cheese sauce and sliced black olives.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some onions and garlic before adding the rice. You can substitute the shredded chicken with rotisserie chicken for convenience or use leftover chicken from recipes like Emma's Chicken. If you want a spicier kick, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. This dish is versatile and can be adapted to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of refried beans or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the cheese and sour cream. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Mae's Enchilada Pie for a complete Mexican feast. Garnish with fresh cilantro or diced tomatoes for added freshness and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist, and microwave covered until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Rice Con Pollo contains roughly 599 calories, with 15g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1190mg per serving (52% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the cheese sauce and olives before baking. This can save time on busy weeknights, making it a great option for meal prep.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt, which will provide a similar creaminess with added protein. Alternatively, a dairy-free yogurt can be used for a non-dairy version without compromising texture.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. This makes it a convenient dish for future meals.
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).