Chili Chicken with Mexican Rice
Chili Chicken with Mexican Rice Recipe - Authentic Mexican Cuisine
Introduction
Chili Chicken with Mexican Rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with spicy chili and savory rice. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.
History
This recipe is a fusion of Mexican and American flavors, combining the bold spices of chili with the comforting elements of rice and chicken. It is a popular dish in many households and is often served at potlucks and parties.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454 g) skinless and boneless chicken nuggets
- vegetable cooking spray
- 1 package (6.8 oz or 193 g) spanish rice mix, prepared according to package directions
- 1 can (15 oz or 425 g) chili without beans
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
How to prepare
- Sprinkle the chicken breasts with black pepper.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the chicken breasts and brown both sides.
- Place the rice in an 8x8x2 inch baking dish. Place the chicken on top.
- Pour the chili over the chicken and top with chips.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 10 to 15 minutes or until bubbly.
Variations
- Add diced bell peppers and onions to the dish for extra flavor and texture.
- Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for a different twist on the recipe.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to brown the chicken breasts before baking to seal in the juices and add flavor.
- Use a high-quality chili without beans for the best results.
- Crushed tortilla chips add a crunchy texture to the dish, so don't skip this step.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chili Chicken with Mexican Rice with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Browning the chicken breasts before baking ensures that they are cooked through and have a nice sear on the outside.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any type of rice mix in place of the Spanish rice mix, and any type of chili can be used in this recipe.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the dish up to the baking step ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Chili Chicken with Mexican Rice in individual baking dishes for a fun and festive presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
This dish pairs well with a side of black beans or a fresh green salad.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 350 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 35g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 12g per serving
Saturated Fat: 3g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 25g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is a good source of Vitamin C, Iron, and Calcium.
Alergens
This recipe contains gluten from the tortilla chips.
Summary
Chili Chicken with Mexican Rice is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for dinner.
Summary
Chili Chicken with Mexican Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, this dish is a nutritious and delicious choice for any occasion.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a hot summer day, and I was attending a potluck with some friends. One of the dishes that caught my eye was a vibrant and fragrant plate of Chili Chicken with Mexican Rice. The combination of spicy chili flavors with the comforting warmth of the Mexican rice was irresistible to me.
I approached the woman who had brought the dish and asked her for the recipe. She smiled warmly and told me that it was a family recipe passed down through generations. She explained that the key to the dish was in the balance of spices and the slow cooking process that allowed the flavors to meld together perfectly.
I was determined to recreate this dish in my own kitchen, so I asked her if she would be willing to teach me how to make it. She agreed, and we set a date for a cooking lesson at her home.
As I arrived at her house, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of spices wafting from her kitchen. The woman, whose name was Rosa, welcomed me with a warm hug and led me to her well-stocked kitchen. She laid out all the ingredients we would need for the Chili Chicken and Mexican Rice, explaining the importance of each one in creating the perfect balance of flavors.
We started by marinating the chicken in a mixture of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and lime juice. While the chicken was soaking up the flavors, Rosa showed me how to make the Mexican Rice. She sautéed onions, garlic, and tomatoes in a skillet before adding in the rice and chicken broth. The rice simmered on the stove, absorbing all the delicious flavors as we prepared the rest of the dish.
Next, we seared the marinated chicken in a hot skillet until it was golden brown and cooked through. The smell of the chili powder and cumin filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. Rosa then added in a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies, along with some chicken broth, to create a rich and spicy sauce to coat the chicken.
As the dish simmered on the stove, Rosa and I chatted about our love of cooking and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. She told me stories of her own grandmother, who had taught her the art of Mexican cooking, and how each dish they made together held a special place in her heart.
Finally, the Chili Chicken was ready, and we served it alongside the fragrant Mexican Rice. The colors and aromas of the dish were stunning, and I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was a revelation - the tender chicken was infused with the bold flavors of chili and cumin, while the rice was fluffy and flavorful, with a hint of heat from the green chilies.
As I savored each bite, I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire. The recipe for Chili Chicken with Mexican Rice had been passed down to me by Rosa, and I would cherish it as a reminder of our special day spent cooking together.
From that moment on, I would share this delicious dish with my family and friends, passing down the recipe just as Rosa had passed it down to me. Cooking, to me, is more than just preparing a meal - it is a way to connect with others, to create memories, and to honor the traditions that have been handed down through generations.
And so, every time I make Chili Chicken with Mexican Rice, I think of Rosa and the love and care she put into teaching me this recipe. I am grateful for her generosity and for the gift of her culinary wisdom, which has enriched my life in more ways than I can count. Cooking is a gift that keeps on giving, and I will always treasure the memories of that day spent learning to make this delicious dish.
Categories
| Chicken Recipes | Instant Rice Recipes | Main Dish Poultry Recipes | Mexican Recipes |