When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a hearty bowl of Tex Mex Chicken And Rice. This one-pot wonder is packed with flavor and made with wholesome ingredients, making it an ideal weeknight meal that the entire family will love. The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and a spicy kick of Tex Mex seasoning creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home.

The Upside of Tex Mex Chicken And Rice

Tex Mex Chicken And Rice is more than just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are some reasons why you’ll love making this dish:

Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a vibrant and delicious flavor profile.
One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to enjoy your meal.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Meal Prep Friendly: Great for batch cooking, leftovers can be stored and reheated easily.
Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and veggies, making it a wholesome choice.

What Goes In

To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 pound chicken thighs, boneless skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons Tex Mex seasoning
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large onion, chopped
2 medium bell peppers, chopped (red and green)
4 cloves garlic, minced
15 ounces fire-roasted tomatoes (1 can diced)
15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
8 ounces corn, canned or frozen, drained if canned
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 cups chicken broth (low sodium or no sodium added)
1 cup long grain rice (such as Jasmine or Basmati)
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges for serving

Setup & Equipment

Before you start cooking, here are a few essential tools you’ll need:

Large Skillet: A deep skillet or Dutch oven is perfect for one-pot meals like this.
Wooden Spoon: For stirring and mixing the ingredients together.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the veggies and chicken.

Directions: Tex Mex Chicken And Rice

Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s dive into the cooking process!

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken thighs and sprinkle with the Tex Mex seasoning. Sauté until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, and ground cumin. Stir to combine all the ingredients well.

Step 4: Add Rice and Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the long grain rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Cook Until Done

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Serve

After the rice has rested, fluff it gently with a fork. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top and let it melt for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations by Season

Tex Mex Chicken And Rice is versatile and can be adapted to fit the season. Here are some ideas for variations:

Spring: Add fresh asparagus or peas for a pop of color and freshness.
Summer: Toss in some corn on the cob or zucchini for a summer twist.
Fall: Incorporate diced butternut squash for a hearty autumn version.
Winter: Mix in some kale or spinach for added nutrients and color.

Pro Perspective

If you want to elevate your Tex Mex Chicken And Rice, consider marinating the chicken in the Tex Mex seasoning for a few hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for an added kick. And remember, the key to a perfect one-pot meal is not to lift the lid while it cooks—trust the process, and you’ll be rewarded with fluffy rice and tender chicken!

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers, allow the Tex Mex Chicken And Rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen it up.

Quick Q&A

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken breast, ground turkey, or even beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with extra beans, tofu, or even a mix of your favorite vegetables.

Can I freeze Tex Mex Chicken And Rice?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

What can I serve with this dish?

Tex Mex Chicken And Rice pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, tortilla chips with salsa, or some warm, crusty bread for sopping up all that delicious sauce.

Next Steps

Ready to dig into this Tex Mex Chicken And Rice? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get cooking! With just a handful of steps, you’ll have a delicious meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your soul. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make this delightful dish today and enjoy every flavorful bite!