Southwestern Chicken And Rice
A flavorful southwestern chicken and rice dish with beans, salsa, and corn, perfect for weeknight dinners and satisfying for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and chopped onion to the skillet.
- Cook and stir until the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in drained kidney beans, chunky salsa, drained corn, and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
- Stir in uncooked rice, then remove from heat and cover.
- Let stand for 5 minutes to allow rice to absorb the flavors.
- Stir in sour cream until well combined.
- Garnish as desired and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice, cumin, and garlic beforehand. You can substitute black beans for kidney beans or use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier twist. If you prefer a spicier dish, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of tortilla chips or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Green Chili Burrito Casserole for a festive dinner. Top with avocado slices or fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also heat it on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwestern Chicken And Rice contains roughly 966 calories, with 9g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 638mg per serving (28% 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and increase the amount of chicken broth, as brown rice takes longer to cook. Follow the package instructions for best results.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with diced bell peppers, zucchini, or other vegetables of your choice, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This will create a delicious vegetarian version of the recipe.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.
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).