Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with a mouthwatering dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Southwest right to your table! Our One Pan Southwestern Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it's an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave your family asking for seconds. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to discover how to create a delicious, hearty meal in under an hour? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southwestern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice
- 1 can black beans
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by cutting chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, rinsing black beans, and measuring out all spices and other components.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat with a light coating of olive oil.
- Season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and cumin, then add to the hot pan. Cook chicken until golden brown and nearly cooked through, approximately 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add uncooked rice to the pan with the chicken, stirring to toast the rice slightly and coat with pan drippings, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in salsa, black beans, and corn, then add
- 5 cups of water or chicken broth to help cook the rice.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes to allow rice to fully absorb remaining moisture.
- Fluff rice with a fork, check seasoning, and adjust salt and pepper if needed before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can chop the chicken and measure out the spices and other ingredients in advance. This way, you can quickly throw everything together when you're ready to cook.
- Choose the Right Pan: A large skillet or cast-iron pan works best for this recipe, as it allows for even cooking and easy stirring. Make sure it has a lid to trap the steam while the rice cooks.
- Don’t Skip the Toasting: Toasting the rice for a minute or two with the chicken enhances the flavor and gives it a nice texture. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
- Adjust for Spice: If you like it spicy, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the salsa. For a milder version, stick with a medium salsa.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit covered for a few minutes after cooking helps the rice absorb any remaining moisture, ensuring a perfectly fluffy texture.
- Garnish for Flavor: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. These toppings add freshness and a burst of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 75mg
