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Recipe by:

Sara Crocker

Easy One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice

This Mexican Chicken and Rice dish combines seared chicken, aromatic spices, and flavorful rice, creating a comforting meal perfect for chilly fall days.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Group: Ingredients
  • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, if you prefer
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp. chili powder
  • 1 tsp. cumin
  • 1 tsp. paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet Preferably a cast-iron skillet

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet, letting them sizzle for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
  2. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add diced onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes, then add minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
  3. Stir in the long-grain rice, allowing it to absorb flavors for 1-2 minutes until slightly translucent.
  4. Pour in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, corn, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir everything together until well combined.
  5. Nestle chicken thighs back into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and reduce heat to low, cooking for about 20-25 minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid and is tender.
  6. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and squeeze lime juice over the top.

Notes

This dish warms the belly and fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma; it's perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holiday season.