A Mexican chicken and rice bowl is super easy to prepare. What’s more, it’s packed with flavor, nutrients, and fun. If you’re looking for a family dinner on a budget, this meal will make you happy.

Variety of Ways to Prepare the Mexican Chicken and Rice Bowl

I’ve made this chicken and rice bowl a number of ways, including stovetop, pressure cooker, slow cooker, and crockpot. Additionally, you can even make it (yes, I’m talking about the whole thing, not just the rice) in a rice cooker if that’s all you have.

The beauty of southern cuisine is that there is no wrong way to prepare it. If you like the way it turns out, then you did it right. Not only will you enjoy getting creative with this dish, you’ll also look forward to trying new twists.

If you have time in the morning, you can put all the ingredients into a slow cooker. It will be ready when you get home at the end of the day. Your house will also smell wonderful and inviting as soon as you walk in the door.

Interesting Flavors

My husband and I have always enjoyed a variety of interesting flavors. This Mexican chicken and rice bowl makes our taste buds very happy.

I grew up eating an assortment of peppers and foods from different countries. My favorites are the ones with the most flavor—especially the ones that have a strong kick. Without a doubt, that’s one of the reasons I really like this Mexican chicken and rice bowl. However, you can use a less spicy salsa if you don’t like the heat. Regardless of the level of heat, it’s delicious

How to Make a Mexican Chicken and Rice Bowl

This time, I cooked this in my slow cooker. If you choose to do it on the stovetop, you can cook the toppings in one pot and steam the rice separately. It’s equally good either way.

To begin with, you’ll need chicken, of course. I cut four chicken thighs into strips. You can make this with any cut of chicken, but the price is significantly lower with thighs.

Next, drain a can of corn and a can of black beans. If you prefer another type of beans, by all means, go for it.

Chop your celery and set it aside. Meanwhile, it’s time to start cooking.

One of the most important things I do is spray the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to make it easy to clean up. However, this isn’t an essential step. Afterward, pour the rice into the slow cooker.

Pour water and chicken stock over the rice. Add the chicken, corn, black beans, and half the cilantro. Then sprinkle the chili powder over the mixture.

Finally, pour in the salsa. I use a whole jar of medium hot salsa. Not surprisingly, this brings a ton of flavor to the dish. Regardless of your preferred heat level, it’ll still taste delicious regardless of which salsa you choose. As much as I enjoy spicy food, I enjoy it with mild sauce as well.

Turn on the slow cooker and let it do all the work while you go about your day. When you come home, your delicious Mexican chicken and rice bowl dinner will be ready to serve. At this point, you’ll be hooked on using your slow cooker.

Garnish Your Mexican Chicken and Rice Bowls

I think that when a dish is pretty, it’s more appetizing. In order to do this, include a variety of colors from tomatoes, greens, and other delicious veggies.

I placed some mixed greens on one side of the wide, shallow bowls. Next, I scooped the mixture from the slow cooker into the bowls, making sure to get a little of everything.

Then I tucked some chips in on the side opposite the greens and put even more chopped cilantro over the top. For even more flavor and color, I finally sprinkled a little cheese over the whole thing.

Even though this is a Mexican style dish, it still qualifies as southern food. There’s no doubt in my mind that once you experience this flavor explosion, it will quickly become one of your favorite dishes.

Dessert Ideas

Now that you’ve prepared a delicious and satisfying meal, it’s time for dessert. If you’re not too stuffed after eating this, I can recommend several options for dessert:

• Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Chocolate Cola Cake
• Cranberry Pecan Lace Cookies

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