Mexican Chicken and Rice
The ultimate comfort food that brings a taste of Mexico to your table. This Mexican Chicken and Rice is bursting with flavors, combining tender chicken, hearty rice, and vibrant vegetables for an easy weeknight dinner. Perfect for families and gatherings, it’s a dish you’ll want to make tonight!
Equipment
- Skillet
- Oven
- Cutting Board
- Frying Pan
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Saucepan
- Chef's Knife
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into 3/4-inch pieces
- 1 small yellow onion chopped
- 2 small jalapeños or 1 large jalapeño, core and seeds discarded, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper chopped
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 cup long or medium-grain brown rice do not use short grain or instant, as it will become mushy
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes in their juices
- 3 medium green onions chopped
- Optional chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges, additional sliced jalapeño, shredded cheese, diced avocado, prepared salsa, sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium to high heat. Once hot and shimmering, swirl to coat the pan, then add the chicken, onion, jalapeño, and red bell pepper. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until the chicken is browned and the onion is beginning to soften.
- Add the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the black beans and rice. Stir to coat once more.
- Add the diced tomatoes in their juices and 1 1/2 cups water. Stir to combine the ingredients. Bring to a gentle boil, cover, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and stir, scraping up any rice that has started to stick to the bottom of the pot. Re-cover and continue to let simmer with the lid on until the rice is tender, 10 to 20 additional minutes, stirring the pot every 10 minutes or so to prevent sticking. If the rice begins to dry out, add a bit more liquid.
- Stir in the green onions. Serve warm with any other desired toppings.
Notes
- Tip 1: Note that if white rice or another type of rice or grain is substituted, the cooking time will vary. Consult the package for guidance.
- Tip 2: To Store. Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Tip 3: To Reheat. Warm gently on the stovetop, covered, until heated through. If needed, add a few tablespoons of water or chicken stock to the pan to rehydrate the rice while warming. Alternatively, you may warm in the microwave until heated through.