One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice

This One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice has just five basic ingredients and is ready in less than 30 minutes!

This easy One Pan Chicken and Rice dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! Not only is this recipe incredibly tasty and satisfying, it can be made in one dish, and requires only a handful of ingredients. This is also a wonderful base recipe that you can customize based on your families preferences.

Ingredients Needed for One Pan Mexican Chicken and Rice

• Olive oil
• Chicken Drumsticks
• Taco Seasoning: you can use a 1 ounce store bought package or this homemade version.
• Canned tomatoes with green chilies
• Water
• White Rice

How do you make One Pan Chicken and Rice?

1. Heat a large skillet to medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
2. In a large plastic bag toss the drumsticks in half the taco seasoning and pan sear until lightly browned. Approximately 1-2 minutes on each side.
3. Remove the drumsticks from the pan and add the can of undrained can of tomatoes with green chilies, water and remaining taco seasoning and bring to a simmer.
4. Add rice and stir well. Place drumsticks on top of the rice, cover pan and reduce heat to low.
5. Cook 20 minutes until all water is absorbed.

Do I have to use Drumsticks?

No, you can substitute another cut of chicken if you wish. If you would like to use chicken breast, I suggest cutting them into small chunks so they are cooked through by the time the rice is finished cooking. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just be sure to use a meat thermometer to make sure the meat is cooked through before serving.

Alternatively, if you want to switch things up you can use sliced smoked sausage in place of the chicken and use the entire amount of taco seasoning in the rice mixture.

Mexican Chicken and Rice Toppings

This is such an excellent base recipe. It has mild Mexican flavor that isn’t too spicy for kiddos, making it a great family meal. You can easily change up the flavor by serving with unique toppings. Some ideas are:

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• Sour Cream
• Avocado or Guacamole
• Chopped Green Onions
• Crushed Tortilla Chips
• Salsa

Other Easy Mexican Recipes

If your family is like mine, you probably find lots of ways to get your Mexican food kick! We love traditional tacos and enchiladas, but sometimes you just need something a little different! These are a few of my favorite easy Mexican recipes:

• Low Carb Cheesy Taco Soup
• Keto Chicken Fajita Taquitos
• Easy One Pan Taco Mac
• Mexican Lasagna
• Easy Shrimp Tostadas
• Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos