One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice

Name: One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, green); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tsp olive oil; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro (optional)

Published: October 1, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy one-pan wonder takes minimal effort while delivering bold flavors
The colorful ingredients make it visually appealing and fun to eat
It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a casual family dinner
Plus, cleanup is a breeze!

My friends still rave about the time I whipped up this dish for our game night—everyone went back for seconds. Who knew chicken and rice could steal the show?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Thighs are juicier than breasts, making them perfect for absorbing all those incredible flavors.
Long-Grain Rice: Use long-grain rice for fluffy results that won’t stick together like an awkward family reunion.
Bell Peppers: A mix of red, yellow, and green adds color and sweetness to the dish.
Onion: A finely chopped onion will add depth and sweetness as it cooks down.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings an aromatic kick that makes everything taste better.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add moisture and vibrant color to the mix.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing flavor.
Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Chili Powder): These spices create that signature Mexican flair we all crave.
Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness—like sunshine on a plate!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping your bell peppers and onions into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic until fragrant fills your kitchen.

Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and allow it to warm. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan until they achieve a golden brown crust.

Add Aromatics and Spices: Toss in your chopped onion and bell peppers, stirring until they soften—this should take about 5 minutes—and then add garlic along with cumin, paprika, and chili powder.

Mix in Rice and Tomatoes: Stir in long-grain rice followed by diced tomatoes with their juice. This is where magic begins as you blend all those tasty ingredients together.

Pour in Broth and Simmer: Carefully pour chicken broth over the mixture. Bring it to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Cover the skillet tightly and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender.

Add Finishing Touches: Once cooked, fluff everything with a fork. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before serving!

Now you have a delicious One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice ready to impress friends or simply treat yourself after a long day! Enjoy every bite of this flavorful creation! delicious beef enchiladas.

You Must Know

This One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights
It’s loaded with flavor and colors that will make your taste buds dance
The convenience of cooking everything in one pan means less clean-up, which is a win in anyone’s book

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden, then sauté the vegetables before adding rice and broth. This sequence ensures maximum flavor while everything cooks evenly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add black beans for extra protein. You can also experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or chipotle for a smoky kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect results, ensure the chicken is well-seasoned before cooking to enhance flavor
Avoid overcrowding the pan; this prevents browning and creates steam instead
Always let the dish rest briefly before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully

The first time I made One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice, my friends couldn’t believe it was homemade! Their raving reviews had me grinning from ear to ear, proving that simple meals can still impress. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Taco Salad recipe.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase cooking time and liquid amount for brown rice.

Is this dish spicy?

spicy jalapeno popper soup.

The spice level depends on how much chili powder you add; adjust according to your preference.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu or more veggies and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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