Fiesta Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Fiesta Chicken when the weather turns chilly or when you’re simply craving a hearty meal. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family—it was one of those spontaneous weeknight dinners that turned into a family favorite. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, Fiesta Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration on a plate. The enticing aroma of spices and fresh vegetables filled my kitchen, making everyone eager to gather around the table. You know that moment when the food looks so good even before the first bite? That’s what Fiesta Chicken brings to the table.

As I served it, topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, the smiles on my family’s faces were priceless. Each bite is a delightful combination of tender chicken, hearty beans, and zesty spices. It’s a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering of friends, Fiesta Chicken never fails to impress. Let’s dive into why this recipe stands out and why you’ll want to add it to your regular meal rotation!

Fiesta Chicken Shopping List

When it comes to the ingredients for Fiesta Chicken, each one plays a crucial role in creating a well-balanced and flavorful dish. The blend of proteins, vegetables, and spices ensures that every bite is packed with taste. Let’s take a closer look at these key players that make this recipe shine.

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil – This healthy fat not only helps to sauté the ingredients, but it also adds a lovely rich flavor.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs – Tender and juicy, chicken thighs are perfect for this dish, offering great flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic – Freshly minced garlic brings a robust aroma and flavor to the skillet.
• 1 cup yellow onion – Diced onions add sweetness and depth, making the base of the dish delicious.
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika – This spice adds a smoky depth that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• 2 teaspoons onion powder – A great way to amplify the onion flavor without the texture.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper – Freshly cracked pepper adds a slight kick to the dish.
• 1 medium red bell pepper – Adds sweetness and color, making the dish visually appealing.
• 1 medium green bell pepper – Offers a nice contrast to the sweetness of the red pepper.
• 15 ounces black beans – Nutrient-rich beans that contribute protein and fiber, making the dish hearty.
• 15 ounces whole kernel corn – Sweet and crunchy, corn brings texture and flavor to the mix.
• 1 cup diced tomatoes – Freshness and acidity from tomatoes balance the richness of the chicken.
• 1 1/2 cups white rice – This serves as a base, soaking up all the delicious juices from the chicken and sauce.
• 3 cups slow-sodium chicken broth – Adds moisture and depth of flavor without being overly salty.
• 3/4 cup Mexican blend cheese – A melty topping that makes everything even more delightful.
• Optional toppings: chopped fresh cilantro, jalapeño slices, sliced or diced avocado, plain nonfat Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime wedges – These toppings add freshness and a burst of flavor to each serving.

How to Make Fiesta Chicken

Making Fiesta Chicken is a breeze, and you’ll love every moment spent in the kitchen. Let’s get started on creating this wonderful dish that’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Follow these detailed steps, and soon enough, you’ll be savoring the delicious flavors of Fiesta Chicken.

1. In a large nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking before adding the next ingredient. A good way to test this is by dropping a small piece of onion into the pan; it should sizzle immediately.
2. Add the chicken thigh pieces and cook them until they are browned on the outside. This should take about 3 minutes. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause steaming instead of browning.
3. Once the chicken is browned, add the minced garlic, diced onion, smoked paprika, onion powder, kosher salt, and pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 2 minutes until the onions are softened and the spices are fragrant. Keep stirring to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, white rice, and chicken broth. Make sure everything is well combined.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid. This step is crucial, as it helps to trap the steam that will cook the rice and chicken simultaneously.
6. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Check the rice occasionally. You want it to absorb the broth without becoming mushy.
7. Once cooked, taste the dish and adjust the seasonings if necessary. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
8. Sprinkle the Mexican blend cheese over the top of the Fiesta Chicken and cover the skillet again. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey layer of deliciousness.
9. Finally, serve the Fiesta Chicken warm, garnished with optional toppings such as fresh cilantro, jalapeño slices, sliced avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, and wedges of lime. Each topping adds a fresh twist!

Change It Up

There are countless ways to put your unique spin on Fiesta Chicken. Here are some tips to inspire your creativity in the kitchen!

• Storage: To store leftovers, let the Fiesta Chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this dish! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it should last for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve Fiesta Chicken with a side of tortilla chips or over a bed of greens for a delicious salad option.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more jalapeños or using a hotter variety of paprika.
• Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with tofu or leave it out entirely for a plant-based version.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese blends to find your favorite, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick!

Best Served With

There’s no wrong way to enjoy Fiesta Chicken, but here are some of my favorite serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

• Over Rice: Serve your Fiesta Chicken over a warm bed of rice to soak up all the delicious flavors.
• Tortilla Chips: Use crispy tortilla chips as a fun scoop for the chicken, making it a great appetizer for gatherings.
• Fresh Salad: Pair with a vibrant salad of mixed greens, avocado, and a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• During Celebrations: This dish is excellent for festive occasions like family gatherings or casual game nights.
• Accompanying Sides: Complement with sides like Spanish rice or refried beans for a true fiesta feel.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve with fresh corn on the cob or grilled vegetables; in winter, a warm bread or cornbread makes a great side.

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Fiesta Chicken lies in its delightful combination of flavors and comfort. This dish brings warmth and joy to the dining table, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. I encourage you to try this recipe for yourself; it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home, just like it has in mine. So gather your ingredients and dive into the vibrant world of Fiesta Chicken tonight!

Fiesta Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Fiesta Chicken is a scrumptious blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty spices. This easy weeknight dinner is not only hearty but also bursting with flavor, making it a must-try dish for your family tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 470

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup yellow onion diced
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 medium red bell pepper cored and chopped
• 1 medium green bell pepper cored
• 15 ounces black beans rinsed and drained
• 15 ounces whole kernel corn drained
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 1/2 cups white rice
• 3 cups slow-sodium chicken broth
• 3/4 cup Mexican blend cheese
• Optional toppings chopped fresh cilantro, jalapeño slices, sliced or diced avocado, plain nonfat Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime wedges

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Large Pot
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Blender
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. In a large nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking before adding the next ingredient. A good way to test this is by dropping a small piece of onion into the pan; it should sizzle immediately.
2. Add the chicken thigh pieces and cook them until they are browned on the outside. This should take about 3 minutes. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause steaming instead of browning.
3. Once the chicken is browned, add the minced garlic, diced onion, smoked paprika, onion powder, kosher salt, and pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 2 minutes until the onions are softened and the spices are fragrant. Keep stirring to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, white rice, and chicken broth. Make sure everything is well combined.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid. This step is crucial, as it helps to trap the steam that will cook the rice and chicken simultaneously.
6. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Check the rice occasionally. You want it to absorb the broth without becoming mushy.
7. Once cooked, taste the dish and adjust the seasonings if necessary. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
8. Sprinkle the Mexican blend cheese over the top of the Fiesta Chicken and cover the skillet again. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey layer of deliciousness.
9. Finally, serve the Fiesta Chicken warm, garnished with optional toppings such as fresh cilantro, jalapeño slices, sliced avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, and wedges of lime. Each topping adds a fresh twist!

Notes

• Tip 1: Rinse the black beans under cold water before adding them to the skillet. This removes excess sodium and starch, allowing their natural flavors to shine through.
• Tip 2: To ensure your chicken is tender and juicy, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees safe and perfectly cooked chicken every time.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.