One Pot Mexican Chicken: 5 Star Flavor in Every Bite

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One Pot Mexican Chicken is a dish that takes your taste buds on a vibrant journey through the heart of Mexican cuisine. This hearty meal combines tender chicken thighs with a unique blend of spices, vegetables, and rice, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup. Imagine the aroma of spices filling your kitchen as the chicken cooks to perfection, while the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the family together around the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Mexican Chicken

This one-pot chicken recipe is packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for any night of the week. Here are some reasons to love it:

Easy to prepare: With just one pot, cleanup is a breeze.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this easy Mexican chicken dish.
Nutritious: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a healthy option for dinner.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite beans or add extra spice for a one-pot spicy chicken.
Comforting: This meal is the definition of one-pot comfort food.
Quick to make: Perfect for busy weeknights with just 55 minutes from prep to plate.
Great for meal prep: Make a big batch for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients for One Pot Mexican Chicken

Gather these items:

2 tsp garlic powder (or 2 garlic cloves, minced)
2 tsp paprika
2 tsp cumin powder
1 3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Black pepper, to taste
5 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin on
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 tbsp lime juice
1 small onion, peeled and diced (or 1/2 large onion)
1 garlic clove, minced
1 red capsicum (bell pepper), diced or sliced
1 cup long grain rice, uncooked
1 cup chicken stock or low sodium vegetable stock
3/4 cup tomato passata (tomato puree)
1 cup frozen corn kernels (or canned, drained)
1 can (400g/16oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (can substitute red kidney beans)
1 lime, plus extra wedges to serve
Coriander (cilantro) leaves
Sliced jalapeño peppers (optional)
Sour cream, guacamole, or avocado sauce (optional)

How to Make One Pot Mexican Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, cumin powder, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper to create the Mexican spice mix. Set aside.
Step 2: Place 1 1/2 tablespoons of the spice mix in a large bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil and lime juice. Mix to form a paste, then add chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the mixture for 1 hour or up to overnight in the refrigerator. If short on time, proceed immediately to the next step.
Step 4: Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large deep skillet with a lid over medium-high heat. Sear chicken skin side down for 4 minutes until light golden, then turn and sear flesh side for 1 1/2 minutes. The inside will still be raw. Remove chicken and place on a plate.
Step 5: In the same skillet, scrape off any burnt spices if necessary. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and red capsicum. Sauté for about 3 minutes until onions soften.
Step 6: Stir the uncooked rice into the vegetables. Pour in chicken stock, tomato passata, frozen corn, black beans, and the remaining Mexican spice mix. Stir to combine everything evenly.
Step 7: Place the seared chicken thighs skin side up on top of the rice mixture. The chicken will be partially submerged, but the skin should remain mostly above the liquid.
Step 8: Bring the skillet to a simmer on the stovetop, then cover with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven at 180°C/350°F (160°C fan). Bake covered for 25 minutes.
Step 9: Remove the lid or foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until there are only small puddles of liquid left on the rice surface and the chicken skin is crisp.
Step 10: Take the skillet out of the oven and let it rest uncovered for 10 minutes. This allows remaining liquid to evaporate and the rice to finish cooking.
Step 11: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken and rice. Either remove the chicken or push it to one side, then fluff the rice. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, extra lime wedges, and sliced jalapeños if desired. Sour cream, guacamole, or avocado sauce make excellent accompaniments.

Pro Tips for the Perfect One Pot Mexican Chicken

Keep these in mind:

For more spice, add extra cayenne pepper.
Use fresh herbs for garnish for better flavor.
Can substitute chicken thighs with breasts if preferred.
Make sure to let the dish rest to enhance the flavors.

Best Ways to Serve One Pot Mexican Chicken

There are many delicious ways to enjoy this dish:

Serve with warm tortillas for a complete meal.
Pair with a fresh avocado salad for added crunch.
Top with shredded cheese for extra richness, a great addition to your one-pot Mexican dinner.

How to Store and Reheat One Pot Mexican Chicken

For best results, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through. This dish also makes for a convenient meal prep option, ensuring you have hearty lunches ready to go.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Mexican Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect One Pot Mexican Chicken?

The secret lies in marinating the chicken with the spice mix for maximum flavor. This enhances the taste and ensures juicy, tender chicken. Try incorporating extra lime juice for a zesty kick.

Can I make One Pot Mexican Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving for a quick and easy quick Mexican chicken recipe.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pot Mexican Chicken?

To prevent undercooked rice or chicken, ensure you follow the cooking times closely. Additionally, ensure the liquid is at a simmer before covering and baking. This will help achieve the best results.

Variations of One Pot Mexican Chicken You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

Add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a healthier twist.
Use quinoa instead of rice for a protein-packed alternative.
Swap the chicken thighs for drumsticks or chicken breasts for different textures.
Experiment with different beans, such as pinto or navy beans, for unique flavors.

For more delicious recipes, check out this cinnamon spiced veggie loaf or this creamy sausage potato chowder. You can also explore these Thai red curry kabobs for a different flavor experience. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit this Mediterranean tzatziki chicken recipe for a healthy option.

For more information on the health benefits of chicken, you can refer to Healthline for a detailed overview.