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One Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice

One Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice
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One Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish combining tender chicken, fragrant long-grain white rice, and bold Mexican spices all cooked together in a single pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe requires minimal cleanup while delivering a hearty, well-balanced meal bursting with textures and colors. It offers comforting authentic Mexican-inspired flavors and is highly customizable to suit any dietary preference.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or breasts, seasoned

Grains

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (with juices)

Liquids & Seasonings

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken

    Heat oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Add seasoned chicken pieces and brown on all sides to lock in flavor.

  2. Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Spices

    Stir in chopped bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toast the spices briefly with the vegetables and chicken to release their aromas.

  3. Step 3: Stir in Rice and Liquids

    Add the long-grain white rice, diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly, ensuring the rice is evenly coated in the sauce.

  4. Step 4: Simmer Until Cooked

    Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a lid and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through. Avoid stirring during this time to prevent mushy rice.

  5. Step 5: Finish with Fresh Ingredients and Serve

    Remove from heat and let sit covered for a few minutes to absorb all flavors. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving for a fresh, zesty finish.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken for added flavor and juiciness.
  • Do not stir the pot while simmering to avoid mushy rice.
  • Toast spices briefly before adding liquids to enhance flavor complexity.
  • Let the dish rest covered off heat to fully absorb flavors.
  • Choose a heavy-bottomed, lidded pot for even cooking and heat distribution.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot, Mexican chicken and rice, easy dinner, weeknight meal, gluten free, quick recipe, chicken thighs, Mexican spices

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/one-pot-mexican-chicken-and-rice/