Microwave Chicken Mexicana
A creamy, cheesy microwave chicken dish with a spicy kick from diced tomatoes and green chilies, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and flavorful family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and arrange in an 8-inch square baking dish.
- Cover with wax paper and microwave at high power for 6 to 8 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Cool slightly, then cut chicken into smaller pieces if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and spices before cooking. If you don't have Cheddar cheese soup, you can substitute it with a homemade cheese sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different taste. Using fresh diced tomatoes can also enhance the dish's freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over a bed of lettuce for a fresh crunch or with a side of Spanish rice to complement the flavors. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Tostada for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for a more even reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Chicken Mexicana contains roughly 257 calories, with 7g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1031mg per serving (45% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it's best to thaw it first for even cooking. If you're in a hurry, you can microwave the chicken on a lower power setting until thawed, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, use hot diced tomatoes with green chilies or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or jalapeño slices. You can also top the finished dish with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
What can I serve with Microwave Chicken Mexicana?
This dish goes well with a side of refried beans or a simple salad. For a fun twist, consider serving it with tortilla chips for scooping. You can also pair it with a refreshing margarita or iced tea for a complete dining experience.
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).