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: 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ large yellow onion (diced); 1 red bell pepper (diced); 1 cup long-grain white rice; 20 ounces diced tomatoes with green chiles (2 (10-ounce) cans); 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 15 ounces canned black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed); 1 cup frozen corn; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; 1½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend; Sliced green onions; Chopped fresh cilantro

One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice dish garnished with herbs and spices.

By :

Sarah

February 15, 2026

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How to make One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice

Making One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice is easy and quick. Here, we will walk you through each step, so you can have a delicious meal in no time.

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ large yellow onion (diced)
1 red bell pepper (diced)
1 cup long-grain white rice
20 ounces diced tomatoes with green chiles (2 (10-ounce) cans)
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
15 ounces canned black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed)
1 cup frozen corn
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Sliced green onions
Chopped fresh cilantro

Directions:

Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Cook Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet in an even layer. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked and lightly browned. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Cook Vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Then, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook these until softened, about 5 minutes. If you get a little charring on the veggies, it’s a good thing since it adds flavor.
Add Rice: Stir in the rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring to combine.
Mix Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, black beans, frozen corn, taco seasoning, and the previously cooked chicken. Stir it well.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
Add Cheese: Once the rice has absorbed most of the liquid, reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, cover again, and allow it to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts.
Garnish and Serve: Finally, top it with sliced green onions and chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve it warm and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice

This One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice is a complete meal that combines everything in one dish. You get protein from the chicken, fiber from the beans, and plenty of flavor with spices and veggies. The melty cheese adds a creamy texture that ties it all together, making each bite satisfying. Plus, the use of a single pan means less cleanup for you!

Nutriment Benefits

Protein: Chicken and black beans provide a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle health and recovery.
Fiber: Black beans and corn are rich in fiber, which aids digestion.
Vitamins: Bell peppers and onions are loaded with vitamins A and C.
Healthy Fats: Olive oil contains healthy fats that are good for heart health.

What to Serve With One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice

This dish stands well on its own, but there are several delicious options to serve alongside it:

Guacamole: Creamy, flavorful, and fresh, guacamole adds extra richness.
Salsa: A fresh salsa can add a crunchy and zesty contrast.
Tortilla Chips: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for a fun side.
Salad: A simple green salad can add freshness and balance to the meal.

How to Store One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing it. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become tough and dry, so be sure to keep an eye on it and remove it as soon as it is done.
Use Low-Sodium Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth can help control the salt levels in your dish.
Don’t Skip the Simmering Step: Allowing the flavors to meld together while simmering is essential for the best taste.
Stir Occasionally: Stirring occasionally prevents the rice from sticking, ensuring an even texture.

Variations

Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your taste:

Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp or ground beef if you prefer.
Add More Veggies: Incorporate veggies like zucchini, corn, or spinach to boost nutrition.
Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and increase the amount of beans and veggies for a tasty vegetarian meal.

FAQs

Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare it in advance and either store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for a more extended period.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the liquid and cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
What if I don’t have diced tomatoes with green chiles?
You can use regular diced tomatoes and add your own green chiles or spices to achieve a similar flavor.
Can I make this without cheese?
Absolutely! You can leave out the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can be controlled by the amount of taco seasoning you use. You can make it mild or spicy based on your preference.

This scrumptious One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep. With its great taste and easy preparation, you’ll want to make it again and again! Happy cooking!

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One-Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice