Chicken Enchilada Rice (One-Pot Recipe) - Deliciously Seasoned (2024)

Chicken Enchilada Rice

This easy chicken enchilada rice starts with sauteed chicken and onion. I mix them with tomatoes, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, green, chilies, rice, and zesty spices and cook it all until the rice is tender. Then, I cover the top with cheese and let it melt with the lid on. That’s all there is to it. It takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, and it’s always a big hit with everyone.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Chicken Enchilada Rice Recipe

• This casserole combines a delicious array of flavors in one pot with all the best parts of enchiladas: zesty seasoned chicken, green enchilada sauce, beans, corn, and lots of cheese without tortillas.
• It’s a quick and easy dinner recipe that is simple to make for those busy weeknights when dinner needs to get on the table quickly.
• It’s versatile and can be customized to your family’s liking, such as adding different vegetables and different types of cheese.

One-Pot Chicken Enchilada Rice Ingredients

This recipe uses simple ingredients you can find in any grocery store. Many of them are probably in your kitchen, as well. You get tons of flavor without anything fancy!

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts are a lean source of protein with a mild flavor that pairs well with the other zesty ingredients.
• Uncooked Rice: Uncooked white rice adds filling body to the recipe. Use white rice for proper cooking time.
• Diced Tomatoes and Enchilada Sauce: These create the base for the zesty sauce used in the casserole.
• Zesty Seasonings: Cajun seasoning, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes give the dish a spicy, bold kick.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The bold flavor of sharp cheddar cheese pairs perfectly with the other ingredients in this casserole.

See the recipe card at the end of the post for a full list of ingredients and their exact amounts.

How to Make Chicken Enchilada Rice

This is an easy, one-pot recipe that requires very little effort, getting you in and out of the kitchen fast.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken and Onions

Add the chicken, onions, seasonings, butter, and oil to a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, and the onions are tender.

Step 2: Add Everything But the Cheese

Add the diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, green chilies, and uncooked rice.

Step 3: Cook

Stir and cook covered over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Remove the lid, cover the top with cheese, and replace the lid. Cook until the cheese is melted.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the pot from the heat, top with fresh cilantro and green onions, and enjoy! Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, Pico de Gallo.

Recipe Tips

• Keep the heat on medium when cooking the onions and chicken to keep the onions from burning.
• Be sure the rice is at a simmer and not a boil while cooking.
• Check the rice at 15 minutes to test for doneness.

Variations

• You can use brown rice for this recipe. Just increase the cooking time by about 15 minutes. Check for doneness and continue cooking for 5 minutes until the rice is tender.
• Make this recipe with cubed pork chops for a different flavor.
• Can use rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
• Make a mild version by omitting the red pepper flakes.
• For an extra kick of heat and flavor, add diced jalapenos.
• Top with other cheese, such as Taco or Mexican blend.

What to Serve with This One Pot Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

Serve this casserole with all your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes for a Taco Tuesday or Mexican-themed feast. Some great options include:

• Tortilla chips and guacamole
• Chips and salsa
• Garlic bread
• Tacos
• Burritos
• Fajitas
• Quesadillas
• Nachos
• Mexican coleslaw
• Churros

Recipe FAQ

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

Refrigerate this casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months in an airtight, freezer-safe container. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight.

To reheat the casserole, place a portion on plate and microwave at 30-second to 1-minute intervals until heated through.

Try This One-Pot Chicken Enchilada Rice Recipe Today

This one-pot chicken enchilada rice is a hearty, filling dish that always has everyone coming back for more. You’ll be okay with that because it’s so easy to make! This is the perfect dish for a weeknight meal or any potluck, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked. Give this a try, and I know you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

More Delicious Mexican Recipes You’ll Enjoy

This Mexican Chicken Lasagna is a hearty and delicious, made with layers of seasoned chicken, enchilada sauce, spicy cheese, black olives, and flour tortillas. A flavorful twist on the classic lasagna.