Southwest Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

why make this recipe

Southwest Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

Southwest Crock Pot Chicken and Rice is a fantastic dish for busy days. It uses simple ingredients and cooks slowly, filling your home with lovely aromas. This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can easily customize it to suit your family’s tastes!

Southwest Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

how to make Southwest Crock Pot Chicken and Rice

Ingredients :

  • 2 cups chicken breast, diced
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can corn, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions :

  1. In a crock pot, combine the chicken, rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
  4. If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover, and allow to melt for a few minutes before serving.
  5. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve warm.

how to serve Southwest Crock Pot Chicken and Rice

Serve the Southwest Crock Pot Chicken and Rice warm in bowls. It’s great on its own or you can add some tortilla chips on the side for an extra crunch. A dollop of sour cream or sliced avocado can also enhance the flavors beautifully.

how to store Southwest Crock Pot Chicken and Rice

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

tips to make Southwest Crock Pot Chicken and Rice

  • Make sure to rinse the black beans to reduce sodium levels.
  • Feel free to use brown rice instead of white rice to make it healthier; just adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.
  • Add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • For spicier flavor, increase the amount of taco seasoning or add jalapeños.

variation

You can replace the chicken with turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, swap out the black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans according to your preference.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted. Make sure it is thoroughly cooked before serving.

2. What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can make your own taco seasoning using a mix of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.

3. Can I use other types of rice?
Yes, but the cooking time will differ. Always check the rice package for timing instructions to ensure perfectly cooked rice.

Southwest Crock Pot Chicken and Rice

A hearty, flavorful dish perfect for busy days, made with simple ingredients in a slow cooker. Customize it to suit your tastes and enjoy warm.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Mexican
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups chicken breast, diced
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can corn, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cooking

  • In a crock pot, combine the chicken, rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
  • Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
  • If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover, and allow to melt for a few minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Notes

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Rinse black beans to reduce sodium levels. Substitute brown rice for white rice and adjust the cooking time. Add more veggies for extra nutrition and flavor. For spicier flavor, increase taco seasoning or add jalapeños.
Keyword Comfort Food, Crock Pot Chicken and Rice, easy dinner, Healthy Recipe, Slow Cooker

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