Description
Creamy Jalapeño Chicken & Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, velvety sauce infused with the warmth of jalapeños. Each bite offers a perfect balance of spice and creaminess, complemented by the comforting texture of fluffy rice.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Rice: 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- Spices: 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Jalapeño Sauce: 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2-3 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
- Broth: 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the rinsed rice and chicken broth to the skillet, bringing it to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, and chopped jalapeños until smooth.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the creamy jalapeño mixture until well combined.
- Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use low-fat cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Fat: 25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 12 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 25 grams
- Cholesterol: 80 milligrams
Keywords: Creamy Jalapeño Chicken & Rice, chicken recipes, creamy chicken, spicy chicken, comfort food, one-pan meals, easy dinner recipes, jalapeño recipes, rice dishes, American cuisine, gluten-free meals, family-friendly recipes, quick meals, savory dishes