Pueblo Chicken And Rice
Pueblo Chicken and Rice is a hearty, flavorful dish combining seasoned chicken, rice, and a blend of tomatoes, green chilies, olives, and cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it offers a comforting mix of Southwestern flavors with creamy and cheesy textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped tomatoes with liquid, chopped onion, chopped green chilies, and sliced black olives.
- Spread half of the rice mixture into a 2 1/2-quart dish.
- Layer with cooked chicken, half of the sour cream, and half of the shredded Jack cheese.
- Top with the remaining rice mixture, sour cream, and the rest of the shredded cheese.
- Chill the assembled dish for 24 hours.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes, or 1 hour if chilled, until hot throughout.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, consider adding a teaspoon of cumin or chili powder to the rice mixture. If you prefer, you can substitute the Jack cheese with Cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. Using leftover rotisserie chicken can also save time and enhance the dish's flavor, making it a great addition to your collection of chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Pueblo Chicken and Rice dish pairs beautifully with a side of fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for added crunch. A simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette also complements the flavors well. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing beverage like iced tea or a light beer for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring they are warmed evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pueblo Chicken And Rice contains roughly 249 calories, with 10g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1518mg per serving (66% 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, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it for 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld, resulting in an even tastier meal when it’s time to serve.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you're looking for a lighter alternative to sour cream, Greek yogurt works well in this recipe. It provides a similar creaminess and tang. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based sour cream or cashew cream.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep for up to 2 months. To bake, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking as directed.
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).