Southwest Chicken and Rice Recipe

Name: Southwest Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southwest
Ingredients: 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs); 1 cup long grain white rice; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp cumin powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish); Shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

June 27, 2025

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It’s a sunny afternoon, and the aroma of spices wafts through my kitchen as I prepare my favorite comfort food—Southwest Chicken and Rice. Picture tender chicken nestled in a bed of fluffy rice, adorned with colorful peppers and topped with a sprinkle of cheese. It’s like a fiesta on a plate, ready to make your taste buds dance.

This dish isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s a ticket to happy memories shared with loved ones. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday gathering, this Southwest Chicken and Rice brings everyone together for flavorful fun.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish is incredibly easy to whip up even on the busiest days.
Its bold flavors make every bite exciting without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Vibrant colors from fresh ingredients create an eye-catching presentation on any dinner table.
This recipe is versatile—you can tweak ingredients based on what you have handy or your dietary needs.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; they begged for seconds while raving about the flavors!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for 3-4 breasts for a family-sized meal—perfectly juicy when cooked right!
Long Grain White Rice: Use long grain for fluffy texture; it’s less sticky than other types.
Red Bell Pepper: Choose firm peppers; they add sweetness and color.
Green Bell Pepper: Adds crunchiness; feel free to substitute with yellow or orange peppers.
Onion: A medium onion adds essential flavor; chop finely for quicker cooking.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves will enhance flavor; use at least three for that aromatic kick.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth allows you to control saltiness while adding depth.
Cumin Powder: Essential for that southwest flair; don’t skip it!
Paprika: I recommend smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
Cilantro (Optional): Fresh cilantro brightens the dish; sprinkle just before serving if you love its flavor.
Cheddar Cheese (Optional): Shredded cheese makes everything better; use sparingly if you’re watching calories!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

First Step: Begin by dicing your boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Sauté the chicken until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes—making sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Next Step: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In that same skillet, toss in chopped onions, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables soften—approximately 3-4 minutes—allowing their sweet aromas to fill your kitchen.

Third Step: Stir in minced garlic along with cumin powder and paprika. Continue cooking until fragrant—just about 30 seconds—and then return your cooked chicken back into the skillet.

Fourth Step: Pour in long grain white rice along with low-sodium chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally—this should take about 5 minutes.

Final Step: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet tightly with a lid, and simmer gently for about 20 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed by the rice. Check occasionally to prevent sticking!

Once done cooking, fluff the rice with a fork before adding optional shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired; let it melt slightly before serving.

Enjoy your adventurous culinary journey as you dig into this easy-to-make yet flavorful Southwest Chicken and Rice!

You Must Know

Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor, Freshness makes a world of difference, especially with herbs and spices.
Don’t rush the cooking process,Allowing the chicken to sear properly adds depth to the flavor.
Adjusting seasoning throughout cooking ensures a well-balanced dish.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the rice while preparing the vegetables and spices for an efficient process that maximizes flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or add black beans for extra protein. Try different seasonings like smoked paprika or lime juice to personalize your dish!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low in a pan to maintain moisture without drying it out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing; this helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
Always allow cooked chicken to rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy and tender.
And remember, adjusting spices gradually will help you find your perfect balance of flavors!

I still remember the first time I made Southwest Chicken and Rice for friends. Their smiles were priceless, and one friend even asked for seconds—now that’s a win in my book!

FAQ

What can I substitute for chicken in Southwest Chicken and Rice?

You can use turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas as excellent alternatives.

How long does it take to cook Southwest Chicken and Rice?

The total cooking time is around 30-40 minutes from start to finish.

Can I make Southwest Chicken and Rice ahead of time?

Yes, this dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep during busy weeks!

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