Name: Southwestern Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3/4 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp chili powder; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 4 chicken breasts ((boneless, skinless, pounded to even thickness)); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small yellow onion ((chopped)); 1 red bell pepper ((chopped)); 1 clove garlic ((minced)); 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp chili powder; 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice ((or any long grain rice)); 1 can diced tomatoes ((14 oz) drained); 3 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup canned black beans ((rinsed and drained)); 1 cup corn ((fresh or frozen)); 3/4 cup Monterey Jack Cheese ((shredded)); 3/4 cup sour cream; 1 large avocado ((chopped)); cilantro; lime wedges

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When it comes to cozy weeknight dinners, nothing beats a home-cooked meal like Southwestern Chicken And Rice. It was a typical Wednesday evening, and I was craving something hearty yet simple. I rummaged through my pantry and fridge, inspired by the vibrant flavors of the Southwest. The idea of tender chicken breasts paired with spicy seasonings and wholesome rice made my mouth water. With just a few ingredients, this dish can transform a regular dinner into a flavorful experience for the entire family.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
550 kcal

Protein:
34 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Saucepan, Skillet

What Sets This Southwestern Chicken And Rice Apart

It’s Comforting

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a one-pot meal. With Southwestern Chicken And Rice, you’re treated to a comforting blend of textures and flavors that warms the heart. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables creates a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

It’s Flavorful

The spices used in this recipe—cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder—bring a bold, rich flavor to the table. Each bite is a delicious reminder of the Southwest, making it perfect for those evenings when you want to escape your regular routine with something exciting.

It’s Quick and Easy

Perfect for busy nights, Southwestern Chicken And Rice can be whipped up in no time. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s ideal for those who want a satisfying meal without hours spent in the kitchen.

It’s Versatile

This dish is not just a meal; it’s a blank slate for creativity. Feel free to add more vegetables or adjust the spices based on your preferences. You can even make it spicier if you’re feeling adventurous!

It’s Perfect for Meal Prep

Making Southwestern Chicken And Rice in bulk means you can enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts.

It Brings People Together

Food has a wonderful way of bringing people together, and this dish is no exception. Sitting around the table, sharing stories, and enjoying the vibrant flavors of Southwestern Chicken And Rice can turn an ordinary evening into something special.

Everything You Need for Southwestern Chicken And Rice

Creating a delicious Southwestern Chicken And Rice dish revolves around using fresh, quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in delivering that comforting, vibrant flavor profile that the Southwest is known for. From the spices to the chicken and vegetables, these ingredients work together harmoniously to create a meal that’s not just satisfying but also bursting with flavor.

3/4 tsp kosher salt – A crucial seasoning that enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
1/2 tsp cumin – Adds a warm, earthy flavor characteristic of Southwestern cuisine.
1/2 tsp smoked paprika – Provides a rich smokiness that elevates the dish.
1/2 tsp chili powder – Adds heat and a slight sweetness, perfect for balancing flavors.
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper – A staple spice that adds depth and a kick.
4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, pounded to even thickness) – The hearty protein that makes this meal filling.
2 tbsp olive oil – For cooking the chicken, bringing flavor and moisture.
1 small yellow onion (chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
1 red bell pepper (chopped) – Brings a pop of color and sweetness.
1 clove garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavors.
1 tsp kosher salt – Another layer of seasoning for the rice and vegetables.
1/2 tsp cumin – More of that earthy goodness for the rice.
1/2 tsp chili powder – Ensures the spice level is just right.
1 1/2 cups jasmine rice (or any long grain rice) – The base that absorbs all the flavors.
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz, drained) – Adds moisture and acidity.
3 1/2 cups chicken broth – The cooking liquid that makes the rice flavorful and tender.
1 cup canned black beans (rinsed and drained) – Introduces protein and fiber.
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen) – Sweet and crunchy, adding texture.
3/4 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded) – Melts beautifully for a creamy finish.
3/4 cup sour cream – A dollop on top adds richness and tang.
1 large avocado (chopped) – Creamy and delicious, perfect for topping.
cilantro – Fresh herb for garnish and flavor.
lime wedges – A squeeze adds brightness to the dish.

How to Assemble Southwestern Chicken And Rice

Assembling Southwestern Chicken And Rice is an easy yet rewarding process. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a full meal ready in no time. Let’s dive into the cooking!

Start by combining the kosher salt, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and black pepper in a small bowl. This spice rub is essential for flavoring the chicken. Make sure it’s well mixed.
Take your chicken breasts and season both sides generously with the spice rub you just prepared. Ensure each piece is coated evenly for the best flavor.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about five minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are no longer pink in the center.
After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set it aside for later.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the onion, red bell pepper, garlic, the remaining kosher salt, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for about four minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is softened and translucent.
Next, add the jasmine rice to the skillet. Stir it in for about one minute, allowing it to toast slightly and absorb the flavors.
Now pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about fifteen minutes or until the rice is fully cooked.
After the rice has cooked, stir in the black beans, corn, and the chopped chicken. Sprinkle the Monterey Jack Cheese evenly over the top, cover the skillet, and let it sit for about two minutes to melt the cheese.
Finally, serve each portion with a generous spoonful of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped avocado, fresh cilantro, and a wedge of lime for that perfect zesty finish.

Things Worth Knowing

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and produce will enhance the flavors and overall quality of your dish.
Cooking the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked all the way through to avoid any food safety issues. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices or add heat if you like spicy food. This dish is very adaptable!
Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Southwestern Chicken And Rice turns out perfectly each time, here are some valuable tips:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the dish for up to a month. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Pairing: This dish pairs well with a side salad or cornbread for a complete meal.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and cumin according to your spice preference.
Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh vegetables and herbs to maximize flavor and nutrition.

Accompaniments for Southwestern Chicken And Rice

Serving Southwestern Chicken And Rice can be as delightful as making it. Here are some great ideas for accompaniments:

Fresh Salad: A light side salad with lime vinaigrette complements the dish’s spiciness.
Guacamole: Serve with a side of guacamole for added creaminess and flavor.
Grilled Vegetables: Grilled seasonal vegetables can enhance the meal visually and nutritionally.
Chips and Salsa: Serve some tortilla chips with fresh salsa as a crunchy side.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a casual gathering with friends.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container and enjoy them for lunch the next day!

FAQ

Yes, you can use brown rice instead of jasmine rice, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time. You should also adjust the amount of chicken broth to accommodate the additional cooking time needed for brown rice. Typically, brown rice takes about 20 to 30 minutes to cook compared to 15 minutes for jasmine rice. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before serving to enjoy the best texture.

If you’re looking for a substitute for chicken in Southwestern Chicken And Rice, you can use firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Additionally, shredded beef or pork can be used for a different flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the protein you choose, ensuring it’s cooked through and safe to eat.

Absolutely! Southwestern Chicken And Rice is a great meal prep option. You can cook it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also freeze it in portions for up to a month, making it a convenient dish for busy weeknights.

This recipe is very flexible when it comes to vegetables. You can add zucchini, carrots, or even spinach to Southwestern Chicken And Rice. Feel free to get creative and use whatever veggies you have on hand. Just ensure that they are chopped into small pieces so they cook evenly and blend well with the rest of the dish.

Conclusion

Southwestern Chicken And Rice is a special dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of the Southwest in a comforting one-pot meal. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy nights or family gatherings. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed! Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.