Blog | Dishes

One Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice

Name: One Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tsp garlic powder (or 2 garlic cloves, minced); 2 tsp paprika; 2 tsp cumin powder; 1 3/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Black pepper; 5 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin on; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 small onion, diced; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 red capsicum (bell pepper), diced or sliced; 1 cup long grain rice, uncooked; 1 cup chicken stock/broth, low sodium; 3/4 cup tomato passata; 1 cup frozen corn kernels; 1 can (400g/16oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

ByLily Carter May 14, 2025May 13, 2025

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Looking for a delicious and easy meal to whip up for dinner? Look no further than this flavorful One Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice recipe! Packed with vibrant Mexican spices and tender chicken, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Bursting with bold Mexican flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Requires minimal prep time and only uses one pot for easy cleanup.
Ideal for meal prep – make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

Mexican Spice Mix

Garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic)
Paprika
Cumin powder
Salt
Cayenne pepper (optional)
Black pepper

Chicken

Chicken thighs, bone-in, skin on
Olive oil
Lime juice

Rice

Onion, garlic, and red bell pepper for added flavor
Long grain rice
Low sodium chicken broth
Tomato passata
Frozen corn kernels
Black beans (or red kidney beans)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a small bowl, mix together the Mexican Spice Mix ingredients.
Season the chicken thighs with the spice mix, olive oil, and lime juice.
In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
Add the rice, chicken broth, tomato passata, corn, and beans to the pot.
Nestle the seasoned chicken thighs into the rice mixture.
Cover and simmer until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

For a spicier kick, add extra cayenne pepper to the spice mix.
Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables like diced zucchini or carrots.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for extra flavor and moisture.
Allow the rice to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this One Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice with a side of fresh avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime. Serve with a side of cornbread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To reheat leftovers, place the dish in a microwave-safe container with a splash of water and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of extra broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, but bone-in, skin-on thighs will result in juicier and more flavorful chicken.

Can I substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breast?

While you can use chicken breast, thighs are recommended for better flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by adjusting the cooking times accordingly.

Is this dish spicy?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less cayenne pepper to the spice mix.

Conclusion:

Now that you have all the tips and tricks to make this mouthwatering One Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice, it’s time to get cooking! Try this recipe for a satisfying and flavorful meal that will become a staple in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy every delicious bite!

Lily Carter