Description
A quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, seasoned rice, black beans, corn, and melted Mexican cheese, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. This Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet combines protein and vegetables in a vibrant, Tex-Mex inspired dish that requires minimal cleanup and comes together in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 10 oz can diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
- 2 small chicken breasts (12-14oz), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen sweet corn
- 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning (or store-bought)
- 8 oz Mexican cheese blend, divided
Optional Toppings
- Chopped cilantro
- Chopped green onions
- Diced avocado
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a large nonstick skillet, combine 1 cup of long grain white rice, 1 3/4 cups chicken broth, and the 10 oz can of diced tomatoes with green chiles including their juices. This forms the flavorful base for the dish.
- Bring to Boil: Place the skillet over high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This helps the rice start cooking and infuses it with the tomato and chile flavors.
- Add Chicken and Veggies: Add the cut chicken pieces, 15 oz of drained and rinsed black beans, 1 cup frozen sweet corn, and 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning into the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer Covered: Once everything is mixed, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The rice will absorb liquid and chicken will cook through.
- Melt the Cheese: After the rice is tender and chicken cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in half of the shredded 8 oz Mexican cheese blend until melted and creamy throughout the mixture.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover again and let it sit off the heat for 5 minutes, allowing the cheese on top to melt perfectly.
- Serve: Spoon the cheesy chicken and rice mixture into bowls or plates. Garnish with optional toppings like chopped cilantro, green onions, or diced avocado for fresh flavor and texture contrast.
Notes
- Using undrained tomatoes with green chiles adds extra moisture and heat to the dish.
- Stir halfway through simmering to prevent rice from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Feel free to substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Adjust taco seasoning amount to taste if you prefer milder or spicier results.
- Using a heavy-bottom skillet helps avoid burning during the simmer.
- Optional toppings add freshness and texture but are not required.
- This dish can be served with a side of sour cream or salsa if desired.
