Let me tell you a little story. One evening, after a long day of work, I found myself staring into the fridge, hoping for a dinner miracle. There it was: a lonely chicken breast, half a block of cheese, and some leftover rice. Not exactly inspiring. But then, a lightbulb moment, why not combine these humble ingredients into something delicious? And thus, the idea for this one-skillet Mexican chicken cheese and rice dish was born.
This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, flavorful, and, best of all, requires minimal cleanup. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, my family asks for it at least once a week. Let’s dive into how you can make this dish a staple in your home too.
Why This Dish Works
Combining chicken, cheese, and rice is a classic trio, but adding Mexican flavors takes it to the next level. The spices infuse the chicken with warmth, the cheese adds creaminess, and the rice soaks up all the delicious flavors. It’s comfort food with a kick.
Ingredients Overview
Before we get into the cooking process, let’s talk about the key ingredients:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. They cook quickly and absorb flavors well.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal, but you can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
- Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and corn add sweetness and crunch.
- Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and paprika provide that signature Mexican flavor.
- Liquids: Chicken broth keeps the rice moist and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating some oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant. This forms the flavor base of your dish.
2. Cook the Chicken
Push the vegetables to the side and add your seasoned chicken pieces. Cook until they’re browned on all sides. The goal here is to sear the chicken, locking in the juices.
3. Add the Rice and Spices
Stir in the uncooked rice, allowing it to toast slightly. This step adds a nutty flavor to the dish. Then, sprinkle in your spices cumin, chili powder, and paprika stirring to coat everything evenly.
4. Pour in the Liquids
Add chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This deglazing step ensures maximum flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Simmer and Melt the Cheese
Cover the skillet and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, sprinkle the cheese over the top, cover again, and let it melt into gooey perfection.
6. Garnish and Serve
Top your dish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot and enjoy the symphony of flavors.
Tips for Success
- Use a Large Skillet: This dish requires space for all the ingredients to cook evenly.
- Don’t Rush the Rice: Letting the rice simmer slowly ensures it’s fully cooked and flavorful.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your spice tolerance.
Variations to Try
- Add Beans: Black or pinto beans can add extra protein and texture.
- Use Different Proteins: Swap chicken for ground beef or turkey for a different twist.
- Make It Vegetarian: Omit the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
If you’re serving guests or planning a themed dinner, you could follow up this dish with something dramatic like our Bomba Dessert. Talk about a flavor fiesta!
Mexican Chicken, Cheese, and Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast diced
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup canned black beans drained
- 0.5 cup salsa
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until golden, about 6–7 minutes.
- Stir in salsa and black beans, cook for 2 minutes.
- Add cooked rice and mix until heated through.
- Sprinkle cheese on top and cover until melted.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream or cilantro.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with:
- Tortilla Chips: For a crunchy contrast.
- Guacamole: Adds creaminess and freshness.
- Mexican Street Corn: Complements the flavors beautifully.
Pair this meal with something refreshing like a light cucumber salad or for a bold contrast, serve it with a zingy drink like our Ginger Smoothie. Trust me, it cuts through the richness beautifully
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
FAQs – Mexican Chicken Cheese and Rice
What is chicken cheese and rice called?
In many Mexican restaurants, the combination of chicken, cheese, and rice is often referred to as Arroz con Pollo con Queso, or simply ACP. But at home, it’s just as comforting when you whip up your own Mexican chicken cheese and rice skillet. Whether baked, grilled, or seared in one pan, it’s a cozy, cheesy classic that goes by many names but is always delicious.
What does ACP stand for in Mexican restaurants?
ACP stands for Arroz con Pollo, which translates to “rice with chicken.” It’s a popular dish in many Mexican and Tex-Mex eateries, often served with queso sauce on top. When cheese is added, you essentially have a restaurant-style chicken cheese and rice Mexican combo that people love for its creamy texture and hearty flavor.
Why does Mexican restaurant rice taste better?
Restaurant-style Mexican rice is typically sautéed in oil with garlic and onion before being simmered with tomato sauce or bouillon, giving it that savory depth. When you make Mexican rice chicken and cheese dishes at home, toasting the rice and using good broth helps you replicate that flavor. It’s all about layering seasonings and cooking the rice properly, no shortcuts.
What rice goes with Mexican chicken?
Long-grain white rice is the most common and traditional pairing for Mexican chicken cheese and rice dishes. It holds its texture well and soaks up the broth and spices beautifully. However, jasmine rice, basmati, or even brown rice can work, depending on your taste and nutrition goals. The key is to let the rice simmer gently with the chicken and spices for that authentic flavor.
Conclusion
This one-skillet dinner isn’t just a lifesaver on hectic weeknights, it’s also a solid pick for those who meal prep. In fact, it’s perfect for anyone with a packed schedule, including folks on the road. If you need more hearty, portable ideas, check out our guide to Meal Prep for Truck Drivers for more inspiration.
And for dessert? I mean, you’ve already got dinner in one pan, why not treat yourself to something sweet like our Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread? It’s indulgent, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser.
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