Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Crockpot Fiesta Chicken and Rice

Crockpot Fiesta Chicken and Rice

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

Set it and forget it! Crockpot Fiesta Chicken and Rice combines tender chicken, vibrant spices, and comforting rice all cooked low and slow to create a bold, flavorful, and effortless one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Protein

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Grains

  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice

Vegetables & Beans

  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)

Liquids

  • 3 cups chicken broth

Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Finishing Touches

  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice any fresh ingredients if using, drain canned black beans and corn, and measure out all spices so everything is ready before starting.
  2. Layer the Crockpot: In the crockpot, evenly spread the rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, and seasoning mix at the bottom to distribute the flavors well.
  3. Add the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs on top of the rice and vegetable mixture, making sure they are well positioned to cook evenly.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
  5. Finish and Fluff: Remove the cooked chicken, shred it with forks, then stir the shredded chicken back into the rice mixture for a cohesive, flavorful dish.
  6. Add Fresh Touches: Just before serving, stir in chopped fresh cilantro and squeeze lime juice to brighten and enhance all the flavors.

Notes

  • Use long-grain white rice for best texture as it cooks evenly in the crockpot.
  • Ensure chicken broth just covers the rice and chicken to avoid sogginess.
  • Check the rice near the end of cooking to prevent overcooking and mushiness.
  • Layer rice on the bottom and chicken on top to optimize cooking results.
  • Add lime juice at the end to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg