Big Flavor, Fast Prep: Your New Favorite One-Pan Dinner!
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and flavor-packed meal, this Fiesta Chicken & Rice is about to become a staple in your kitchen. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a one-pan wonder loaded with juicy chicken, smoky fire-roasted tomatoes, hearty black beans, and melty cheddar cheese—all perfectly seasoned for that bold, zesty kick.
The best part? It’s a no-fuss meal made with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. And because it all comes together in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze (which means more time enjoying and less time scrubbing).
Give it a go, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new weeknight go-to—because once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!
Zesty Fiesta Chicken & Rice – A Flavorful One-Pan Delight!
Ingredients
Protein & Veggies:
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 Ib boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ medium yellow or red onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, cored and chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper, cored and chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) reduced-sodium black beans, rinsed & drained
- 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with juices)
Flavor Boosters:
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 1 ½ tbsp paprika
- 1½ tbsp dried dillweed
- ½ tbsp cumin
- ½ tbsp kosher salt
- ½ tbsp cayenne pepper (use ¼ teaspoon for less heat)
The Base:
- 1 ½ cups instant brown rice
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
The Finishing Touch:
- ¾ cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: Chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream).
Instructions
Sauté the Chicken & Spices
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.Add chicken, onion, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dillweed, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper.Stir frequently and cook for about 3 minutes, until the chicken starts to brown.
Add the Veggies & Base
- Stir in the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, black beans, tomatoes, rice, and chicken stock.Bring to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce heat to low.Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked and the rice is almost tender.
Let It Rest & Serve
- Turn off the heat and keep the skillet covered for 5 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.Give it a quick stir, adjust seasonings if needed, and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.Add any optional toppings and serve warm
Notes
Tips & Notes:
💡 Rice Substitutions: If using regular brown rice, cook it separately according to package instructions, then mix it in at the end with a little extra chicken stock if needed. Instant rice is preferred for this recipe’s quick cook time! 💡 Storage & Reheating:- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep it from drying out.
- Freeze: This dish freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and flavor-packed meal, this Fiesta Chicken & Rice is about to become a staple in your kitchen. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a one-pan wonder loaded with juicy chicken, smoky fire-roasted tomatoes, hearty black beans, and melty cheddar cheese—all perfectly seasoned for that bold, zesty kick.
The best part? It’s a no-fuss meal made with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. And because it all comes together in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze (which means more time enjoying and less time scrubbing).
Give it a go, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new weeknight go-to—because once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!
