Southwest Chicken & Rice skillet 

My Southwest Chicken and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder that is a game-changer for those days when time is of the essence.

Life can be a whirlwind, and finding time to prepare a wholesome and tasty meal can often feel like a daunting task. But fear not, because we have the perfect solution for all you busy bees out there: the Southwest Chicken and Rice Skillet! Packed with flavor, nutrients, and ease, this one-pan wonder is a game-changer for those days when time is of the essence.

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken tenderloins 

1/2 tbsp blackening seasoning 

1 tsp kosher salt 

1 tbsp olive oil 

1 cup sweet corn 

1/2 cup onion, chopped

1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced

1/2 cup diced tomatoes 

1 tsp garlic paste 

1 cup jasmine rice 

1 cup black beans, drained and washed

2 cups water 

2 tbsp taco seasoning 

2 tbsp butter 

1 tsp better than bouillon paste

Fresh parsley to garnish

For sauce 

1/3 cup heavy cream 

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp shredded parmesan cheese

1 tbsp taco seasoning 

Instructions:

In a bowl, season chicken tenderloins with blackening seasoning, salt and olive oil then set aside 

In a nonstick skillet with tight fitting lid, add olive oil and sear chicken tenderloins on medium heat until brown on each side, 2-3 minutes per side

Remove chicken tenderloins and set aside 

To the same pan, add onion, bell pepper, corn and tomatoes, sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes 

Add garlic paste & chicken bouillon and sauté for one additional minute 

Next, add rice and taco seasoning, stir well to combine 

Add water, stir mixture and cover. Allow rice to steam for 15-18 minutes on low or until rice is cooked and water has evaporated 

While rice cooks, work on sauce

Add butter to finish rice, fluff and top with chicken tenderloins

Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes or until chicken tenderloins are cooked through 

Finish with cream sauce & fresh parsley 

For sauce: 

In a butter pan on medium low heat, melt 2 tbsp of butter 

Add heavy cream once butter is melted and bring to a simmer 

Add parmesan cheese a little at a time until melted

Add taco seasoning for flavor 

Mix well to combine then set aside

**Why You’ll Love It:**

This Southwest Chicken and Rice Skillet isn’t just easy to make; it’s also bursting with vibrant flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the Southwest. It’s a well-balanced meal that provides lean protein, whole grains, and colorful veggies in one delicious dish. Plus, with minimal cleanup and a cooking time of under 30 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver for those days when time is a luxury.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a student juggling classes, or a parent rushing between errands, this Southwest Chicken and Rice Skillet is your new go-to meal. Say goodbye to mealtime stress and hello to a satisfying, homemade dinner that fits perfectly into your fast-paced lifestyle.

Check out the video for this recipe on my Instagram page! Plus check out more recipes on my website here.