southwestern chicken & rice skillet

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 large red onion, finely chopped
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup chunky salsa
• 1 1/2 teaspoons chili seasoning blend
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
• Sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and diced chicken pieces, sautéing until the chicken starts to turn white.
2. Stir in the finely chopped red onion, diced red bell pepper, and corn kernels. Continue to cook until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Sprinkle in the chili seasoning blend, ground cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly with the spices.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and chunky salsa, followed by the white rice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice to cook.
6. After 15 minutes, remove the lid and gently fold in the black beans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the skillet.
7. Sprinkle the shredded pepper jack cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover again with the lid and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
8. Garnish your Spicy Tex-Mex Fiesta Skillet with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve with a dollop of sour cream if you desire an extra creamy kick.

Enjoy this zesty, one-pan Tex-Mex delight that’s bursting with flavor and spice! For a fiery twist, consider adding jalapeño peppers or extra chili powder to suit your heat preference.

image source : justapinch