Mexican chicken and rice tacos
A quick and easy Mexican chicken and rice tacos recipe that combines tender shredded chicken, seasoned rice, and classic toppings wrapped in warm tortillas. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these flavorful tacos deliver a balanced, mild yet tasty meal that appeals to the whole family.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 tacos 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Proteins and Grains
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Seasonings and Liquids
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning (blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano)
- 2 cups chicken broth
Tortillas and Garnishes
- 8 warm corn or flour tortillas
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Finely chop the onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and bell pepper until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the diced chicken breasts, season with taco seasoning, and cook until the chicken is no longer pink inside.
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rice to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the rice cook for 15-20 minutes, until tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Shred the Chicken and Combine: Once the chicken is fully cooked, shred it using two forks directly in the skillet. Mix the shredded chicken thoroughly with the cooked rice and vegetable mixture, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- Warm the Tortillas: While the filling rests, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp towel until pliable and warm to the touch, ready for folding without cracking.
- Assemble Your Tacos: Spoon generous portions of the chicken and rice filling onto each warm tortilla. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired. Fold and serve immediately for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients to enhance flavor and color.
- Rinsing rice removes excess starch, preventing clumps and ensuring fluffiness.
- Cook rice gently on low heat to avoid burning and achieve tender grains.
- Warm tortillas properly to keep them flexible and flavorful.
- Adjust seasoning, especially spice and salt levels, according to personal taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Mexican, chicken tacos, rice, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, family-friendly, chicken and rice tacos