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Southwest Chicken and Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 115 reviews

A flavorful and hearty Southwest Chicken and Rice dish featuring tender chicken, black beans, corn, and tomatoes, seasoned with smoky spices and topped with melted cheese, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Vegetables

  • 1 lb chicken fillet, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes

Grains

  • 2 cups cooked rice

Spices and Seasonings

  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Dairy (Optional)

  • 1 cup shredded cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat the skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables and cooking the chicken.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  3. Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Add spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika to coat the chicken and aromatics evenly and enhance the southwestern flavor profile.
  5. Combine vegetables and beans: Add the drained black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes into the skillet, mixing well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  6. Add cooked rice: Stir in the cooked rice thoroughly to distribute it evenly throughout the mixture and heat it through.
  7. Season and adjust flavors: Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring well.
  8. Melt the cheese (optional): If using shredded cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the skillet mixture and cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.

Notes

  • Use freshly cooked rice for best texture or leftover rice that’s been refrigerated.
  • Black beans and corn can be fresh, canned, or frozen; thaw or drain as necessary.
  • Adjust the chili powder and cumin amounts to suit your preferred spice level.
  • For a dairy-free version, simply omit the shredded cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
  • Serve with a side of avocado slices or sour cream for added creaminess.

Keywords: Southwest Chicken and Rice, Chicken and Rice Skillet, Easy Chicken Dinner, One-Pan Chicken Recipe, Comfort Food, Spicy Chicken Rice

Find it online: https://dishedbydana.com/southwest-chicken-and-rice-recipe/