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A delectable plate of Southwest Chicken and Rice, featuring tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice.

Ultimate Southwest Chicken and Rice

The ultimate guide to making Southwest Chicken and Rice, a culinary adventure that combines juicy chicken, fragrant rice, and a medley of Southwestern spices for a harmonious balance of flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Shredded cheddar cheese optional
  • Chopped cilantro optional

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
  • mixing bowls
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • spatula
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  3. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the taco seasoning. Add them to the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  5. In the same skillet, add the remaining taco seasoning, rice, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to incorporate all the ingredients.
  7. Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, making sure they are submerged in the rice mixture.
  8. Cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  9. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  10. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve the Southwest Chicken and Rice immediately, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro, if desired.

Notes

The key to perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken and rice is searing the chicken first and then baking it together with the rice and other ingredients. Adding extra spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika can also enhance the Southwestern flavors. Adjusting the ratio of rice to liquid is crucial to achieving fluffy, tender rice.