Name: Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; 1 Onion (chopped); 1 pound Chicken Breasts (chopped); 4 Garlic (cloves, minced); ½ cup Water; 10 oz. Enchilada Sauce (can, mild); 1 cup Long Grain Rice (uncooked); 15 oz. Sweet Corn (rinsed and drained); 14.5 oz. Fire Roasted Tomatoes (drained); 4 oz. Diced Green Chilies (can, mild); 1 teaspoon Salt (EACH); 1 teaspoon Cumin (EACH); 1 teaspoon Ancho Chili Powder (EACH); ½ teaspoon Chili Powder (EACH); ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika (EACH); 16 oz. Refried Beans (can); 1 ¼ cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (divided); LOTS Tortilla Chips; Tomatoes (chopped); Avocados (chopped); Lettuce (chopped); Cilantro; Sour Cream; Guacamole; 3 tablespoons Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing Mix ((1 oz. package)); ½ cup Sour Cream; ½ cup Mayonnaise; ¼ cup Milk; 1 Jalapeno (seeded, deveined, roughly chopped)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I think back to my family’s Friday night traditions, one dish always comes to mind: Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice. Every week, we’d gather around the table, laughter filling the air as the savory aromas wafted from the kitchen. This recipe has a special place in my heart because it’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of togetherness and comfort. The vibrant flavors of the spices, the tender chunks of chicken, and the hearty rice create a symphony of taste that brings everyone to the table. What I love most about this dish is its simplicity. You can whip it up in under thirty minutes, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights when all you want is something delicious without too much fuss.

Whether it’s a casual dinner with friends or a cozy family gathering, the magic of Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice is in its ability to please everyone. Each bite is loaded with the comforting flavors of home, and it leaves you feeling satisfied but not overstuffed. Plus, the flexibility of this dish means you can throw in whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it as nutritious as it is tasty. I remember the first time I made it for my friends; they raved about how easy and delicious it was, and I knew I had found a new favorite.

So, if you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug, I encourage you to try this recipe. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
482 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Blender, Cutting Board, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Skillet, Saucepan, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice Is So Good

It’s Quick and Easy

One of the main reasons I adore Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice is its quick preparation. With a total cook time of about thirty minutes, it’s a lifesaver for those hectic weeknights when time is short. Just throw everything into a skillet, and you’ll have a delightful meal in no time.

Hearty and Filling

This dish is not just quick; it’s also incredibly filling. The combination of chicken, rice, and various vegetables makes it a complete meal on its own. You won’t need to prepare any sides, which is a huge plus!

Family-Friendly

Another thing I love is that everyone in the family can enjoy it. Kids especially love the cheesy goodness and colorful ingredients. It’s a great way to sneak in veggies without them even noticing!

Versatile Ingredients

The beauty of Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it based on what you have in your pantry. Feel free to switch up the vegetables or add your favorite spices to make it your own.

Great for Meal Prep

This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge, then reheat portions throughout the week. It keeps well and tastes even better the next day!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Finally, this dish suits any occasion. Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a potluck, or a game night, Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Key Ingredients for Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice

When it comes to making a flavorful dish, the right ingredients play a crucial role. For Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice, the blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a vibrant taste profile that you’ll love. Each component is selected to enhance the overall flavor and texture, ensuring a delightful experience.

Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon – Used to sauté the onions and chicken, adding richness and flavor.
Onion: 1, chopped – Provides a sweet and savory base for the dish.
Chicken Breasts: 1 pound, chopped – The main protein source, adding heartiness to the meal.
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced – A must-have for that aromatic flavor.
Water: ½ cup – Helps to cook the rice and create a moist dish.
Enchilada Sauce: 10 oz. can – Adds a deliciously spicy kick.
Long Grain Rice: 1 cup, uncooked – The perfect base for absorbing all the flavorful juices.
Sweet Corn: 15 oz. can, rinsed and drained – Adds sweetness and color.
Fire Roasted Tomatoes: 14.5 oz. can, drained – Enhances the flavor with smokiness.
Diced Green Chilies: 4 oz. can – Provides a mild heat that complements the other flavors.
Salt: 1 tsp – Essential for enhancing flavors.
Cumin: 1 tsp – Adds depth and warmth.
Ancho Chili Powder: 1 tsp – Brings a rich, smoky flavor.
Chili Powder: ½ tsp – Adds a subtle heat.
Smoked Paprika: ½ tsp – Offers a hint of smokiness.
Refried Beans: 16 oz. can – Creamy addition for texture and flavor.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 ¼ cups, divided – For a cheesy, gooey topping.
Tortilla Chips: LOTS – For serving alongside.
Tomatoes: Chopped – Fresh topping for added brightness.
Avocados: Chopped – Creamy addition that makes everything better.
Lettuce: Chopped – For crunch and freshness.
Cilantro: For garnish – Adds a fresh herbal note.
Sour Cream: For serving – Richness and tanginess.
Guacamole: For serving – A must-have for any Mexican dish.
Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing Mix: 3 tablespoons – Adds an unexpected twist.
Mayonnaise: ½ cup – Creamy base for the dressing.
Milk: ¼ cup – To adjust the dressing consistency.
Jalapeno: 1, seeded, deveined, roughly chopped – Adds a spicy kick.

Recipe Steps for Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice

Making Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice is a delightful process that brings together all the best ingredients in one pan. Follow these steps for a meal that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare.

Start by preparing the Jalapeno Ranch dressing. Add all of the Jalapeno Ranch ingredients to your blender and blend until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add additional milk a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until translucent. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
Next, add the chopped chicken to the skillet. Cook it until it’s no longer pink on the outside; this will take around 5 to 7 minutes. Remember, the chicken will continue to cook with the rice.
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds. You should be able to smell the garlic’s delightful fragrance!
Turn the heat down to low and add the water, enchilada sauce, rice, corn, fire roasted tomatoes, green chilies, and all the spices: salt, cumin, ancho chili powder, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Stir everything until well combined.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Make sure to stir at the 10 and 15-minute marks to prevent sticking.
After 15 minutes, check if the rice is tender. If it’s cooked through, stir in the refried beans until smooth, followed by ¾ cup of shredded cheese. This will create a creamy texture that you won’t be able to resist.
Top the skillet with the remaining cheddar cheese, cover, and cook on low until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s hard to resist peeking under the lid to check!
Once the cheese is melted, remove from heat and serve topped with lettuce, tomatoes, avocados, and a drizzle of sour cream or your homemade Jalapeno Ranch dressing. This is where the dish gets its beautiful presentation.
Don’t forget to serve with plenty of tortilla chips for dipping. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!

Things Worth Knowing

Check the Rice: Always ensure the rice is cooked to perfection by tasting it before serving. It should be tender but not mushy.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding more jalapeno or a dash of hot sauce.
Let it Rest: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and quality chicken makes a noticeable difference in taste.

Change It Up

When it comes to Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice, the possibilities for customization are endless! Here are some ideas to help you make it your own:

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Protein Swaps: Substitute chicken with ground turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Spice It Up: Add different spices like oregano or cayenne pepper for a unique twist.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier kick or use a mix of cheeses for complexity.
Serving Style: Serve it in a taco shell or over a bed of greens for a fun and fresh take.

What to Serve Alongside Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice

Pairing dishes with Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some delicious ideas:

Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty flavors.
Mexican Street Corn: The sweetness of grilled corn with lime and cheese enhances the meal.
Sautéed Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables sautéed in garlic can add a fresh crunch to the plate.
Guacamole: This classic dip enhances the flavors and adds creaminess.
Rice and Beans: A side of seasoned black beans or pinto beans can add another layer of heartiness to your meal.
Chips and Salsa: A bowl of tortilla chips with fresh salsa makes for a great appetizer.
Refreshing Drinks: Serve with a cold drink like horchata or agua fresca to balance the meal.

FAQ

Yes! You can prepare Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep!

You can serve Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice with a variety of sides. Fresh guacamole, tortilla chips, or a crisp salad complement it well. For a more filling meal, consider pairing it with Mexican street corn or a side of beans. The possibilities are endless!

Absolutely! Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice is a great dish for kids. The flavors are mild, and the cheesy topping is always a hit. You can also customize the recipe by adding less spice or incorporating more of their favorite vegetables to make it even more appealing.

Yes! To make Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with tofu or a variety of beans. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.

Conclusion

Skillet Mexican Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor in every bite. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience full of warmth and togetherness. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and share it with your loved ones. It’s perfect for any occasion, and I promise it will quickly become a family favorite!