Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico! This Chicken Breasts with Chilies and Arroz Blanco recipe is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that combines tender, perfectly seared chicken with the bold, zesty flavors of green chilies and aromatic white rice. Whether you're a spice lover or just looking to add some excitement to your dinner routine, this dish promises to deliver a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups cooked arroz blanco (white rice)
- 1 cup green chilies, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and patting chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides of chicken breasts generously with salt.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until oil shimmers and appears slightly rippled.
- Place chicken breasts into hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on first side until golden brown and develops a nice sear.
- Flip chicken breasts carefully and add chopped onions and diced green chilies around the chicken in the skillet. Reduce heat to medium.
- Continue cooking chicken for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- While chicken is cooking, reheat the prepared arroz blanco in a separate pan or microwave to ensure it's warm when serving.
- Remove chicken from skillet and let rest for 3-4 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which helps maintain moisture.
- Plate the chicken breasts over a bed of warm arroz blanco, spooning the sautéed chilies and onions over the top as a garnish.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnishing with fresh cilantro or a lime wedge for additional flavor.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Don't overcrowd the skillet - this helps achieve a beautiful, even sear on the chicken.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, choose hotter green chilies or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime just before serving can elevate the entire dish's flavor profile.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the chicken at its most tender and the rice at its warmest.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 95mg
