Description
A flavorful and comforting Southwest Chicken and Rice dish combining tender seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, and tomatoes, all cooked together in a skillet and optionally topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that brings bold spices and hearty ingredients together in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 lb chicken fillet, diced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables and cooking the chicken.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the heated skillet and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken fillet to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- Add spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika to coat the chicken evenly and develop robust southwestern flavors.
- Add beans, corn, and tomatoes: Mix in the drained black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes, combining all ingredients thoroughly.
- Combine with rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir well until all components are evenly incorporated and heated through.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference, mixing well to distribute seasonings.
- Optional cheese topping: If using shredded cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the dish, then cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use cooked rice that is slightly cooled or day-old for best texture.
- You can substitute chicken fillet with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- To keep it dairy-free, omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern American
Keywords: southwest chicken rice, chicken skillet recipe, black beans chicken, easy chicken rice, comfort food, southwestern cuisine
