One-Pot Southwest Chicken & Rice

Ever since we were forced to start eating a gluten-free diet, it seems Mexican dishes have become our best friend! Every time I run across a “naturally gluten-free” recipe with a Mexican, Tex-Mex, or Southwest twist to it, I feel compelled to give it a try! Especially when they are as easy as THIS one!

When I first glanced at this recipe from a pin on Pinterest I thought it involved putting it in a casserole dish and baking it in the oven….which I was more than willing to do! But when I realized you made everything in ONE POT on the stove…I literally couldn’t wait to try it! And I didn’t have to…because I had all FIVE ingredients on hand. (I love when that happens!)  :-)

One Pot Southwest Chicken & Rice

Ingredients:

  • 10-12 chicken tenders (cut into bite sized pieces)
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 Tablespoons of the homemade kind)
  • 1 can Rotel
  • 2 cups instant white rice
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

In a large skillet, cook chicken in a small amount of oil. Season as desired. I used a generous amount of my House Seasoning.

southwest chicken and rice

When chicken is fully-cooked, add water, taco seasoning and can of Rotel.

Bring to a boil and then add rice.

southwest chicken and rice

Stir the rice in until mixed, cover, and remove from heat.

southwest chicken and rice 10

After all the water has been absorbed (I think I waited about 5 minutes), give the chicken and rice mixture a stir and top with cheese.

Put cover on again until cheese has melted.

southwest chicken and rice

southwest chicken and rice

Serve with all your favorite Mexican dish toppings! I added chopped avocado, sour cream and crushed tortilla chips. The hubster also added some salsa. If I had been in possession of some cilantro at the time you can bet THAT would have gone on top as well. :-)

This dish was a home run in our house! I consider it a HOME RUN when every single member of the household eats and likes it! Even my youngest who LOVES chicken but does NOT love rice….LIKED it! Go figure. :-) I am not even going to question that one. lol.  I’m just going to bask in the glory of a successful, simple, and tasty dinner!

Now I can’t wait to read all the ways you will “interpret” this dish! Go for it!

Southwest chicken rice with avocado and sour cream, made in just one pot.

One-Pot Southwest Chicken & Rice

Jill Nystul
This “naturally gluten-free” recipe has a delicious Southwest twist to it, and it couldn't be easier to make! You might even have all of the ingredients on hand right now...
4 from 14 votes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6
Calories 293 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 10-12 chicken tenders cut into bite sized pieces
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 Tablespoons of the homemade kind
  • 1 can Rotel
  • 2 cups instant white rice
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, cook chicken in a small amount of oil. Season as desired. I used a generous amount of my House Seasoning.
  • When chicken is fully-cooked, add water, taco seasoning and can of Rotel.
  • Bring to a boil and then add rice.
  • Stir the rice in until mixed, cover, and remove from heat.
  • After all the water has been absorbed (I think I waited about 5 minutes), give the chicken and rice mixture a stir and top with cheese.
  • Put cover on again until cheese has melted.
  • Serve with all your favorite Mexican dish toppings!

Nutrition

Calories: 293kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 25gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 73mgSodium: 293mgPotassium: 467mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 375IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 170mgIron: 3mg

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Jill Nystul (aka Jillee)

Jill Nystul is an accomplished writer and author who founded the blog One Good Thing by Jillee in 2011. With over 30 years of experience in homemaking, she has become a trusted resource for contemporary homemakers by offering practical solutions to everyday household challenges.I share creative homemaking and lifestyle solutions that make your life easier and more enjoyable!

About Jillee

Jill Nystul

Jill’s 30 years of homemaking experience, make her the trusted source for practical household solutions.

About Jillee

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