Green Chile Chicken and Rice

There’s something about the combination of Green Chile Chicken and Rice that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma filled my kitchen, beckoning my family to the table. With tender, juicy chicken, creamy cream cheese, and the zesty kick of green chiles, this meal quickly became a household favorite. I often find myself preparing it for gatherings, as it’s not only delicious but also a breeze to whip up. As everyone digs in, I can’t help but smile, knowing I’ve created something that brings joy and satisfaction to those I love.

Every time I serve Green Chile Chicken and Rice, I’m reminded of how versatile and comforting this dish is. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday dinner, it fits the bill perfectly. The balance of flavors—rich, creamy, and just spicy enough—makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, allowing me to spend more time with my family rather than stuck in the kitchen.

To me, Green Chile Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal; it’s about gathering together, sharing stories, and creating memories that last a lifetime. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it approachable for any home cook, while still delivering on taste. I hope this dish finds a special place in your heart and home, just like it has in mine.

Ingredient List for Green Chile Chicken and Rice

The ingredients in Green Chile Chicken and Rice are carefully selected to complement each other perfectly. The star of the show is, of course, the chicken, which provides a hearty base for the dish. The rich and creamy cream cheese adds a luscious texture, while the green chiles contribute a delightful heat. Together, they create a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.

• 4 Boneless skinless chicken breasts, trimmed – These tender pieces of chicken serve as the main protein in this dish, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
• 2 cups chicken broth – This serves as the liquid base, infusing flavor into the rice and keeping everything moist.
• 2 cups quick cooking rice – The rice cooks quickly and absorbs the delicious flavors of the broth and other ingredients.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – This creamy ingredient adds richness and a smooth texture that makes the dish incredibly satisfying.
• 8 oz chopped green chilis, (2 cans) – The green chiles add a mild heat and unique flavor that elevates the overall profile of the dish.
• 1 cup monterey jack cheese, shredded – This melty cheese is sprinkled on top and adds a delightful cheesy goodness.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – A staple in many recipes, garlic powder enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish.
• 1/2 tsp cumin – This spice adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor of the dish.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors in all the ingredients.
• 1/2 tsp pepper – A touch of black pepper adds a slight bite and balances the flavors.
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro – This fresh herb adds a burst of color and a fresh taste that brightens up the dish.

Green Chile Chicken and Rice Instructions

Making Green Chile Chicken and Rice is a simple and straightforward process that anyone can master. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

1. Preheat your oven to 350˚F. This step is crucial for even cooking and getting that lovely golden top.
2. In a large bowl, mix together chicken broth, rice, cream cheese, green chiles, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. Look for a creamy consistency where the cream cheese is fully melted and integrated.
3. Spread the mixture evenly into a large casserole dish, making sure to cover the bottom. This will be the base where the chicken will rest.
4. Lay the chicken breasts evenly spaced on top of the rice mixture. Gently press them into the mixture so they absorb the flavors as they cook.
5. Cover the top of the casserole with the monterey jack cheese. Make sure to spread it evenly to ensure every bite has cheesy goodness.
6. Carefully place the casserole dish in the preheated oven on the middle rack. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F.
7. Once it’s done, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. The smell will be heavenly, and you’ll be eager to dig in!
8. To serve, you can either keep the chicken breasts whole or shred the chicken into the rice for a more mixed dish. Either way, it’s going to be delicious!
9. Enjoy your homemade Green Chile Chicken and Rice hot, and savor the flavors!

Variations to Try

If you love Green Chile Chicken and Rice as much as I do, you might want to explore some exciting variations. Here are some ideas to inspire your next cooking adventure!

• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with black beans or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian dish.
• More Veggies: Incorporate chopped bell peppers or spinach into the mix for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese Lovers: Experiment with other types of cheese such as cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a flavor boost.
• Slow Cooker Method: For a hands-off approach, prepare the dish in a slow cooker and let it cook for several hours.
• Serving Style: Serve with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips for a fun, Tex-Mex twist.

Pairing Suggestions for Green Chile Chicken and Rice

When it comes to serving Green Chile Chicken and Rice, the possibilities are endless. Here are some pairing suggestions that can elevate your meal:

• Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creaminess.
• Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread complements the dish perfectly, providing a touch of sweetness.
• Guacamole: Top your servings with fresh guacamole for added creaminess and flavor.
• Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even casual weeknight dinners.
• Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy it in the fall with a side of roasted pumpkin or squash for a comforting meal.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for a quick reheat meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

Green Chile Chicken and Rice is a comforting and delicious dish that brings the family together. With its creamy texture and zesty flavor, it’s no wonder it has become a household favorite. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table. You won’t be disappointed!

Green Chile Chicken and Rice

The ultimate comfort food, Green Chile Chicken and Rice combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty green chiles for an easy weeknight dinner. Satisfying and simple to prepare, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite for your family!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces Boneless skinless chicken breasts trimmed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups quick cooking rice
• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 8 oz chopped green chilis (2 cans)
• 1 cup monterey jack cheese shredded
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350˚F. This step is crucial for even cooking and getting that lovely golden top.
2. In a large bowl, mix together chicken broth, rice, cream cheese, green chiles, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. Look for a creamy consistency where the cream cheese is fully melted and integrated.
3. Spread the mixture evenly into a large casserole dish, making sure to cover the bottom. This will be the base where the chicken will rest.
4. Lay the chicken breasts evenly spaced on top of the rice mixture. Gently press them into the mixture so they absorb the flavors as they cook.
5. Cover the top of the casserole with the monterey jack cheese. Make sure to spread it evenly to ensure every bite has cheesy goodness.
6. Carefully place the casserole dish in the preheated oven on the middle rack. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F.
7. Once it's done, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. The smell will be heavenly, and you’ll be eager to dig in!
8. To serve, you can either keep the chicken breasts whole or shred the chicken into the rice for a more mixed dish. Either way, it’s going to be delicious!
9. Enjoy your homemade Green Chile Chicken and Rice hot, and savor the flavors!

Notes

• Tip 1: This can be served with the chicken breasts kept whole, or after baking you can remove the chicken, chop or shred it and then mix it back into the rice.
• Tip 2: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

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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.