15 Mouthwatering Mexican Chicken and Rice Recipes You Need to Try Right Now!
June 5, 2025 | by Roz L
If you’re craving a fiesta of flavors, look no further than these delicious Mexican chicken and rice recipes. From zesty spices to creamy sauces, these meals will make your taste buds dance with joy. Each dish is packed with vibrant ingredients and bold flavors, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a comforting night in.
Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, you’ll find something here that’s easy enough to whip up yet impressive enough to share with friends. Get ready to bring the warmth of Mexico right to your dining table with these recipes that highlight the perfect harmony between chicken and rice.
Time to grab your apron and get cooking!
1. Classic Mexican Arroz con Pollo
Arroz con Pollo is a traditional Mexican dish that never goes out of style. It features succulent chicken pieces cooked with spices and rice to create a hearty, soul-satisfying meal. Start by browning your chicken in a large pot, then set it aside. In the same pot, cook onions, garlic, and bell peppers until they’re fragrant. Next, add tomatoes, broth, and a generous sprinkle of saffron or turmeric for that lovely golden color.
Once it simmers, toss in the rice and return the chicken to the pot. Allow it all to cook together until the rice is fluffy and every grain is infused with the rich flavors of the broth. Don’t forget to garnish with peas and fresh cilantro before serving!
Use bone-in chicken for added flavor and allow the dish to rest before serving for the best texture.
2. One-Pan Chicken and Spanish Rice
For a super simple yet flavorful meal, try this one-pan chicken and Spanish rice. It’s all about the convenience, making this dish a perfect weeknight dinner. Start by seasoning chicken breasts with a blend of paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Sauté them in a pan until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
In the same pan, toss in diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and a cup of rice. Stir in chicken broth and spices, then place the chicken back on top. Cover and let it cook until the rice is tender and the chicken is juicy. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also allows for minimal cleanup!
Helpful Tip: Adding a squeeze of lime before serving enhances the flavors beautifully.
3. Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole
If you’re a fan of enchiladas but need a shortcut, this chicken enchilada rice casserole is a must-try. Layering is the name of the game here. Start with shredded cooked chicken tossed in enchilada sauce, then layer it over cooked rice in a baking dish. Add some black beans, corn, and cheese for a delightful twist!
Top it all off with more enchilada sauce and cheese, then bake until it’s bubbly and golden. Serve with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and sour cream for that added creaminess.
Pro Tip: You can easily customize this dish with any leftover veggies you have on hand.
4. Mexican Chicken and Rice Soup
Warm up with a bowl of Mexican chicken and rice soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Start by boiling chicken breasts with onion, garlic, and spices. Once cooked, shred the chicken and return it to the pot with chopped tomatoes, carrots, and rice. This soup is all about layering flavors!
Let it simmer until the rice is tender, then finish it off with lime juice and fresh cilantro for a zesty kick. It’s nutritious, comforting, and will surely become a family favorite.
Serve with crispy tortilla strips on top for that added crunch!
5. Chipotle Chicken and Cilantro Lime Rice
Bringing a taste of your favorite Mexican grill to your home, this chipotle chicken with cilantro lime rice is a crowd-pleaser! Start by marinating chicken breasts in a mixture of chipotle peppers, garlic, and lime juice for at least an hour. This marination not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy!
Grill or sauté the chicken until perfectly cooked. For the rice, simply cook it with a splash of lime juice and a handful of fresh cilantro for that fresh flavor. Serve it alongside the chicken with some grilled veggies for a complete meal.
This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for the week.
6. Creamy Chicken and Rice with Salsa Verde
If you love creamy dishes, this creamy chicken and rice with salsa verde will hit the spot! Start by sautéing chicken pieces until golden, then remove them from the pan. Create a creamy base by adding sour cream, chicken broth, and a generous amount of salsa verde for that unique flavor.
Combine this creamy mixture back with your chicken and some cooked rice, letting it simmer until all the flavors meld together. The result? A rich, comforting dish that’s packed with southwestern flavors. Don’t forget to add avocado slices on top just before serving!
Pro Tip: Try adding black olives for an extra tasty bite.
7. Mexican Chicken Fried Rice
Turn leftovers into a fantastic meal with this Mexican chicken fried rice! It’s a great way to utilize yesterday’s chicken and rice, giving them new life. Heat up your pan with oil, and sauté onions and peppers until they soften. Toss in leftover chicken and rice, then add soy sauce and a splash of lime juice for that iconic flavor.
Scramble in some eggs and finish off with fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish. This dish is not only quick but also bursting with flavors! Perfect for busy days when you need something fast yet delicious.
Add your favorite veggies to customize the dish to your liking.
8. Baked Mexican Chicken and Rice Pilaf
For a hands-off approach to dinner, try baking a Mexican chicken and rice pilaf. Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add rice to toast it slightly. Place seasoned chicken thighs on top, pour in chicken broth and a mix of spices, then pop it in the oven.
By the end of the baking time, you’ll have perfectly cooked rice infused with chicken flavors, and juicy chicken that’s fall-off-the-bone tender. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro for that extra oomph!
This dish goes well with a side of sautéed veggies for a complete meal.
9. Spicy Chicken and Rice Tacos
Tacos are always a hit, and these spicy chicken and rice tacos take the classic to another level! Season chicken with chili powder and cumin, then cook it until it’s juicy and flavorful. Combine shredded chicken with cooked rice and a bit of salsa for a hearty filling.
Spoon this delicious mixture into warm tortillas and top with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for that fresh punch. These tacos are sure to delight everyone at your table. They’re perfect for gatherings or a fun taco night at home!
Add some crumbled queso fresco for extra flavor.
10. Mexican Chicken and Rice Bowls
For a trendy meal that’s all about fresh ingredients, whip up these Mexican chicken and rice bowls. Start with a base of fluffy rice, then layer on grilled chicken, beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and fresh avocado. Drizzle with lime and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for that authentic flair.
These bowls are super customizable! You can include whatever toppings you love, from jalapeños to radishes. Plus, they’re great for meal prep – just assemble them in containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
11. Tangy Lemon Chicken and Rice
Add a refreshing twist to your dinner table with tangy lemon chicken and rice. Marinate your chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before searing it in a pan. The zesty flavor pairs beautifully with rice cooked in chicken broth, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor!
Combine the chicken and rice together before serving for a harmonious meal. This dish is light yet fulfilling, perfect for those evenings when you want something delightful without being too heavy. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for that gorgeous finish.
Serve with a side of steamed asparagus or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
12. Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers
For a fun, creative dish, try chicken and rice stuffed peppers! Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with a mixture of shredded chicken, rice, and spices. Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbling. Serve these colorful wonders hot!
Not only do they look fantastic, but they also make for easy portion control! Plus, you can switch up the flavors by changing the spices or adding beans. This dish is a great way to sneak in those veggies, too!
Use a variety of colored peppers for a more vibrant presentation.
13. Sizzling Fajita Chicken and Rice
Bring the sizzle to your dining table with this fajita chicken and rice dish! Sauté strips of chicken with colorful bell peppers and onions, seasoned with fajita spices. Serve them over a bed of seasoned rice that’s been cooked to perfection.
This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its vibrant colors. The freshness from the peppers and the tenderness of the chicken create an unforgettable meal. Serve with warm tortillas on the side for an interactive dinner!
Add a dollop of guacamole for an extra layer of flavor.
14. Smoky Chipotle Chicken and Rice Skillet
This smoky chipotle chicken and rice skillet is a flavor explosion! Start by quickly searing chicken pieces with chipotle seasoning for that smoky kick. Add rice, diced tomatoes, and broth for a one-pan wonder. As it cooks, the flavors meld beautifully!
Finish it off with some freshly chopped cilantro for that final touch. It’s an easy, fast meal that doesn’t compromise on taste and will leave your family asking for seconds. Perfectly suited for a busy weeknight!
This dish is great for using up any leftover veggies lurking in your fridge.
15. Zesty Orange Chicken and Rice
Last but not least, try this zesty orange chicken and rice. Marinate your chicken in orange juice and zest mixed with ginger and garlic for that citrusy punch. Sauté the marinated chicken until cooked through, then add cooked rice and toss everything together with some more orange juice.
It’s a refreshing and unique take that balances sweetness with savory perfectly! Garnish with green onions for that additional crunch. This dish is perfect for those who love a little twist in their meals!
Serve with a side of roasted broccoli for a colorful and healthy plate.
Conclusion
There you have it—15 captivating Mexican chicken and rice recipes that are sure to spice up your cooking routine! From traditional favorites to modern twists, there’s something here for everyone. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or a lively weekend feast, these dishes will not only satisfy your hunger but also bring joy to your table.
So, roll up your sleeves and start experimenting with these flavorful recipes. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and enjoy the deliciousness with your loved ones!
