This Fiesta Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and rice are simmered in a zesty tomato broth, then topped with melted cheese for a satisfying and fiesta-worthy dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, minimizing cleanup.
Flavorful and Colorful: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and spices creates a vibrant and delicious dish.
Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just 50 minutes.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and add your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
Chicken Breasts: Cut into cubes, provides a lean protein source.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
Black Pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
Onion (Diced): Adds a savory base.
Red Bell Pepper (Diced): Adds sweetness and color.
Chicken Broth: Provides a rich and flavorful base.
Taco Seasoning: Adds a blend of Mexican spices.
Petite Diced Tomatoes with Juices: Provides a tangy tomato base.
Diced Green Chilies: Adds a mild kick.
Frozen Corn: Adds sweetness and texture.
Black Beans (Drained and Rinsed): Adds protein and fiber.
Long Grain White Rice: Provides a fluffy and satisfying base.
Cilantro (Chopped): Adds a fresh herb flavor.
Colby Jack Cheese (Shredded): Adds a melty and cheesy topping.

Optional Toppings:

Sour Cream
Guacamole
Jalapenos
Additional Cilantro

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Fiesta Chicken

Step 1: Sauté Chicken

Melt butter in a deep skillet over medium heat. Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and sauté until browned on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté until onion is translucent and bell pepper is slightly softened.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasoning

Stir in chicken broth, taco seasoning, petite diced tomatoes with their juices, and diced green chilies. Mix well.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add frozen corn, black beans, and rice. Stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Season with additional salt and black pepper if needed.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 6: Add Cilantro and Cheese

Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped cilantro. Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the Fiesta Chicken hot, garnished with sour cream, guacamole, jalapenos, or extra cilantro if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use a Deep Skillet: A deep skillet or Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe to hold all the ingredients.
Don’t Overcook the Rice: Cook the rice until it’s tender but not mushy.
Adjust Spices: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning to your preferred spice level.
Customize Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Add avocado, salsa, or your favorite hot sauce.
Use Quality Broth: High-quality chicken broth enhances the flavor of the dish.

How to Serve

Main Course: Serve as a complete and satisfying main course.
With Tortillas: Serve with warm tortillas for a taco-style meal.
Over Rice: Serve over white or brown rice.
In Bowls: Serve in bowls for a hearty and comforting meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Fiesta Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Freezing

Freeze cooled Fiesta Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.

3. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can add more taco seasoning, diced jalapenos, or hot sauce.

4. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and add more beans or vegetables.

Jaden Christner

Hey everyone! I'm Jaden, and welcome to YummyHere! Basically, I'm obsessed with food. Like, really obsessed. So, I figured, why not share all my yummy creations with the world? Hopefully, you'll find something here that makes you say "Yum!" (because that's the goal, right?). Let's get cooking!

Fiesta Chicken Recipe