Description

If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, this dish is a must-try. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food, it’s no surprise that it’s been a favorite dish to make multiple times a month. Packed with delicious ingredients and cooked to perfection, this recipe brings together a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that everyone will love

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic, red and yellow bell peppers, and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
Season the Veggies: Stir in the paprika, oregano, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom, releasing their flavors.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Rice
Combine with Tomatoes: Add the can of diced tomatoes (with juices) and stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
Add the Chicken Broth and Rice: Pour in the chicken broth and uncooked rice, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
Step 4: Cook Everything Together
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet or pot with a lid, and simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. Cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Return the Chicken: Once the rice is cooked, return the browned chicken to the skillet, stirring it in to heat through.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Melt the Cheese: Once the chicken is heated through, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover again for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Step 6: Serve
Serve Hot: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve the dish hot. Optionally, add a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess and tang

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips:
Spice It Up: If you like your dishes with a little extra heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some chopped jalapeños to the vegetable mixture for a spicy kick.

Add More Veggies: This dish is super versatile, and you can easily add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or even corn to make it heartier and more nutritious.

Swap the Rice: If you want a low-carb version, swap the rice for cauliflower rice or use quinoa for an added boost of protein.

Cheese Choices: While cheddar works great, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for more flavor variation.

Conclusion:
This favorite dish has all the makings of a perfect go-to meal. With tender chicken, flavorful veggies, and a hearty mix of rice and cheese, it's no wonder it's a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Easy to prepare and packed with flavors, this recipe offers a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. Add your own twist by adjusting the spices or adding your favorite vegetables, and enjoy this delicious, versatile dish as often as you’d like!