The bold flavors of Mexican cuisine come alive in this stunning one-pot meal. Juicy, marinated chicken thighs are seared to golden perfection, then baked atop seasoned tomato-infused rice until everything is infused with rich, savory flavor. It’s a dish that smells just as amazing as it tastes. Best of all, this is a true weeknight hero—minimal prep, maximum flavor, and just one pan to wash. Serve it with crumbled queso fresco, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for the perfect finish. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this dish brings joy, warmth, and just the right amount of heat to the table.
Full recipe:
For the Chicken Marinade:
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6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
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1/4 cup olive oil
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
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1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Juice of 1 lime
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1 teaspoon kosher salt
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1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Rice:
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2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan)
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1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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2 cups long grain rice (rinsed)
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies
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3 ½ cups chicken broth
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Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
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Fresh cilantro (chopped)
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Crumbled queso fresco
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Lime wedges
Directions:
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In a large resealable bag or bowl, mix all marinade ingredients and add the chicken. Coat well and marinate for 20–30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a deep oven-safe skillet with a lid, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear marinated chicken, skin-side down, until golden (about 3–4 mins), flip and sear other side for 3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet (do not clean), sauté onions for 3 minutes, then garlic for another 1 minute.
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Add rinsed rice and tomato paste, stirring to coat the grains. Mix in Rotel tomatoes.
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Pour in the chicken broth. Stir to combine, then nestle chicken thighs on top.
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Bring to a gentle simmer, cover with lid or foil, and transfer to oven.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes. Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with queso fresco, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 476 kcal | Servings: 6
The All-in-One Flavor Bomb: One Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice
Few dishes offer the perfect harmony of flavor, convenience, and nutrition like One Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice. Inspired by traditional Mexican flavors and cooking methods, this dish brings together juicy marinated chicken thighs and seasoned rice cooked in a single skillet, making it a favorite for families, busy professionals, and food lovers alike.
This recipe isn’t just another chicken and rice dish—it’s a celebration of textures, bold spices, and smart kitchen techniques that make every bite satisfying and memorable.
The Cultural Inspiration Behind the Dish
Mexican cuisine is world-renowned for its use of spices, vibrant ingredients, and hearty cooking techniques. Chicken and rice is a common combination in Latin America, but what makes the Mexican version unique is its depth of flavor.
From the citrusy brightness of lime juice in the marinade to the smoky richness of paprika and chili powder, this recipe takes its cue from traditional Arroz con Pollo (rice with chicken), a dish that’s beloved in many Latin cultures. However, this modern version leans on convenience by keeping everything in one pot and finishing it in the oven for a set-it-and-forget-it approach.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
What sets this recipe apart from other one-pot meals is the layered flavor profile built step-by-step. It starts with a highly seasoned marinade that penetrates the chicken, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful. When the chicken is seared, it leaves behind flavorful bits—also known as fond—that are then used to deepen the taste of the rice as it simmers.
Unlike bland or soggy rice dishes, this recipe uses long grain rice, which keeps its integrity and fluffiness even after absorbing all the flavorful broth, tomato paste, and spices. It’s finished in the oven, ensuring even cooking and freeing you up to prep garnishes or simply relax.
The balance between spice, savoriness, and zest makes this dish not just filling but also crave-worthy.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
Though packed with comfort, this recipe doesn’t skimp on nutrition. Here’s a closer look at the health value it brings to the table:
- Chicken Thighs (Bone-in, Skin-on): Rich in protein and more flavorful than chicken breast, thighs also contain healthy fats and essential minerals like zinc and iron.
- Garlic: A natural anti-inflammatory and heart-healthy ingredient.
- Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika): These not only enhance taste but also contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Provide lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
- Long Grain Rice: A great source of energy and easy to digest.
- Cilantro and Lime: Add vitamin C and a boost of freshness that aids digestion.
If you’re looking to increase fiber or reduce carbs, this recipe can easily be adapted using brown rice or cauliflower rice, although adjustments in cooking time would be needed.
One Pot = Minimal Cleanup and Maximum Flavor
One of the standout benefits of this dish is its single-pot method, which simplifies cooking and cleanup dramatically. Busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or even meal prep sessions become more manageable because you’re not juggling multiple pans, strainers, or baking trays.
Everything—from searing the chicken, sautéing aromatics, cooking the rice, and finishing the dish—is done in the same pan. That means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal.
And because the rice cooks in the same pot as the seared chicken, it soaks up every ounce of the rendered fat and spices. The result? A pot of rice that’s almost more exciting than the chicken itself.
Adaptable for Different Diets and Preferences
One of the best aspects of this recipe is how versatile it is. You can adapt it easily for different dietary needs or flavor preferences:
- Low Carb: Substitute cauliflower rice and reduce the amount of tomato paste.
- Dairy-Free: Simply omit the queso fresco topping.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spice Lover’s Dream: Add a diced jalapeño to the sauté or use hot Rotel tomatoes.
No matter your dietary needs, this dish offers a solid foundation for creativity.
Perfect for Meal Prep or Entertaining
This recipe isn’t just about convenience for weeknights—it’s also ideal for entertaining or meal prepping. The flavors actually intensify over time, making leftovers taste even better the next day.
If you’re cooking for a group, you can double the recipe in a large Dutch oven or divide it across two pans. Add a spread of toppings—like avocado slices, shredded cheese, hot sauce, and pickled onions—and let everyone build their own plate. It’s interactive, fun, and saves you from making separate dishes for guests.
For meal prep, divide into containers with lime wedges and a sprinkle of queso fresco for easy, reheat-friendly lunches or dinners.
Tips for Making It Perfect Every Time
Here are some expert tips to help you get the best results every time:
- Marinate the Chicken Well: Even 30 minutes makes a difference, but overnight marinating yields the juiciest, most flavorful results.
- Don’t Clean the Skillet: After searing the chicken, leave the golden-brown bits in the pan. They’re loaded with flavor and will season your rice beautifully.
- Use the Right Rice: Long grain white rice like basmati or jasmine works best. Rinse it before using to remove excess starch.
- Cover Tightly When Baking: Use a well-fitted lid or seal with foil so the steam stays trapped, ensuring the rice cooks evenly.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking lets the moisture redistribute, resulting in fluffier rice and more flavorful bites.
The Visual Appeal
This isn’t just a tasty meal—it’s a feast for the eyes. The golden, crispy chicken thighs sitting on a bed of red-tinged, tomato-rich rice, all garnished with fresh cilantro and crumbles of white queso fresco make for a striking presentation. Add some lime wedges and jalapeño slices on the side, and it’s ready to impress even the pickiest eaters.
If you’re into food photography or run a food blog, this dish is incredibly photogenic, especially under natural lighting. It practically demands to be posted to Instagram.
Family-Approved and Kid-Friendly
Despite its complex flavor, this dish is a hit with kids and picky eaters too. The spices are balanced—not overwhelming—and the familiar base of chicken and rice makes it easy to serve to the whole family.
If you need to adjust for little ones, just go easy on the chili powder or use mild Rotel tomatoes. You can also serve it with plain yogurt or sour cream to cool things down.
A True Weeknight Hero
When life gets hectic and dinner needs to be done fast, this dish rises to the occasion. It checks all the boxes:
Easy to make
Satisfying and full of flavor
Balanced nutrition
Reheats like a dream
Minimal cleanup
It’s no wonder so many home cooks keep this recipe on repeat. Whether it’s your first time making it or your tenth, One Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice is a guaranteed win.
Conclusion
The One Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a smart, flavorful, and soul-satisfying solution for busy home cooks who don’t want to sacrifice taste for convenience. Rooted in the bold and vibrant traditions of Mexican cuisine, this dish brings together the best of both worlds: deep, complex flavor and simple, fuss-free preparation.