Mouthwatering Mexican Chicken & Rice for Easy Weeknight Dinners

This easy Mexican Chicken & Rice is a one-pot marvel, perfect for busy nights.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

2 tablespoons sunflower oil Feel free to substitute with olive oil for a different flavor
600 g cubed chicken breast Swap in chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option
3 cloves crushed garlic Use fresh or pre-minced for convenience
200 g rinsed rice Gluten-free rice works if needed

For the Vegetables

diced red and yellow peppers Any type of bell pepper will do
225 g drained black beans Pinto beans or mixed veggies can be swapped in
200 g sweetcorn Frozen corn can be used for quick prep

For the Flavoring

2 teaspoons cumin Smoked cumin can give an exciting twist
1 teaspoon mild chili powder Adjust for your spice preference
2 teaspoons paprika Choose between sweet or smoked based on taste
500 g passata Diced tomatoes are a substitute if needed
500 ml chicken stock Use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version

For the Topping

75 g grated mozzarella or cheddar Greek yogurt or sour cream can replace for creaminess

Equipment

Large pot

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Chicken & Rice

Heat 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
Add 600 grams of cubed chicken breast and brown for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in 3 crushed garlic cloves and diced red and yellow peppers; sauté for 3-4 minutes.
Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of cumin, 1 teaspoon of mild chili powder, and 2 teaspoons of paprika, and cook for 2 minutes.
Add 200 grams of rinsed rice, 500 grams of passata, and 500 ml of chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and cover.
Cook for 15-20 minutes until rice absorbs the liquid.
Stir in 225 grams of drained black beans and 200 grams of sweetcorn; cook for another 5 minutes.
Sprinkle 75 grams of cheese on top, cover, and let sit for 2-3 minutes until melted.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

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