Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless skinless organic chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons organic extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Salsa Rice:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 1/2 cups long grain and wild rice blend
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Juice of 1 organic lime
- 1 3/4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup mild salsa (plus extra for serving)
- 15 oz pinto beans, drained
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 1 organic avocado, sliced
- 2 tablespoons diced green onions
Instructions
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown (it will not be fully cooked). Remove and set aside.
- Add the butter and remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet. Stir in the rice blend and toast lightly for a minute.
- Add garlic salt, cumin, lime juice, chicken broth, salsa, and drained pinto beans. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them on top of the rice mixture. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove lid, sprinkle cheese over the chicken breasts, and cover again for a minute or two until cheese is melted.
- Top with sliced avocado, extra salsa, and diced green onions. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version—just skip the searing and add cooked chicken before melting the cheese.
- Add jalapeños or hot salsa for a spicier kick.
- Use a different cheese blend like Mexican or cheddar if preferred.
- This dish makes great leftovers—store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 559
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg