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Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice dish served in a bowl with toppings

Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice

A comforting dish featuring seasoned chicken, vegetables, and cheesy goodness, perfect for a weeknight dinner or gathering with friends.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Mexican
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Vegetables

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced adds protein
  • 2 tbsp olive oil provides moisture and flavor
  • 1 medium onion, diced adds sweetness and aroma
  • 1 medium bell pepper, diced adds color and crunch
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced provides rich flavor
  • to taste Salt and pepper enhances overall flavor

For the Seasoning

  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning adds spice and depth
  • 1 tsp ground cumin contributes earthy flavor
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, adds heat

For the Rice Base

  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice serves as the base
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained adds moisture and acidity
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth provides rich flavor and moisture
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed adds protein and texture
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels adds sweetness and color
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles adds mild spice and flavor

For the Cheese Toppings

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded adds creaminess and richness
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded provides smoothness
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened adds creaminess and richness

For Serving

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped for freshness and flavor
  • 2 whole green onions, sliced adds freshness and crunch
  • 1 whole lime, cut into wedges for brightness
  • to taste Sour cream adds creaminess
  • to taste Hot sauce optional, for extra heat
  • to taste Sliced jalapeños for serving, adds a spicy kick

Instructions
 

Cooking the Chicken

  • Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the diced chicken and sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Adding Vegetables

  • Introduce the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the peppers soften.
  • Toss in the minced garlic and season with salt and pepper, cooking for 1 minute.

Spicing it Up

  • Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir to coat the mixture evenly and toast for 1 minute.

Cooking the Rice

  • Add the long-grain white rice, stirring well to coat with the spices.
  • Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine and bring to a simmer.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Final Touches

  • Gently fold in the black beans, corn, green chiles, and cream cheese until evenly combined.
  • Sprinkle cheeses on top, cover, and let sit until melted and bubbly.
  • Stir to incorporate melted cheese and fold in the cilantro and green onions just before serving.

Notes

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. It offers flexibility in serving and can be customized with different toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g
Keyword cheesy chicken, comfort food, easy dinner, One-Pot Meal, Taco Rice
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