Arroz Con Pollo Cheesy Mexican Chicken and Rice Skillet

What Does Cheesy Arroz Con Pollo Taste Like?

The flavor of this cheesy Mexican chicken and rice skillet is deeply satisfying—rich, savory, and perfectly spiced. It starts with the juiciness of the chicken, seared and seasoned with cumin, paprika, and garlic, layered over a bed of fluffy, tender long-grain rice that’s absorbed all the flavors from the broth and spices.

Unlike traditional arroz con pollo, this version is elevated with the bold creaminess of melted cheddar cheese, which creates a smooth, gooey finish that wraps around every grain of rice and bite of chicken. The sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic add depth and aroma, while the peas provide a subtle sweetness and pop of texture.

Every bite balances:

• Smoky warmth from the spices

• Hearty texture from the rice and chicken

• Creaminess from the cheese

• Freshness from the optional cilantro and lime

This dish hits all the marks of a comfort food classic while delivering the unmistakable vibrance of Mexican cuisine. It’s satisfying enough for dinner but easy enough to prepare any day of the week. If you love one-pan recipes, this one’s a keeper — you can even explore similar comfort-forward dishes on Pinterest for more variations.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy arroz con pollo skillet is a complete meal, but you can enhance it further with a few thoughtful additions:

• Sides:

• Toppings:

  • Sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole

  • Fresh lime wedges for brightness

  • Sour cream for creaminess

• Drinks:

  • Agua fresca

  • Light Mexican beer

  • Classic margarita

This dish serves beautifully in large family-style skillets or can be portioned into individual bowls for meal prep. Pair it with colorful sides for a full Mexican-inspired dinner night.

One-Pan Benefits: Why Skillet Meals Rock

Skillet meals like this one have become favorites for busy cooks—and for good reason. Here’s why this one-pan Mexican chicken and rice dish is a game-changer:

• Minimal cleanup: With only one skillet used, washing dishes is faster and easier.

• Time-saving: Everything cooks in stages in the same pan—no separate pots or baking dishes required.

• Flavorful cooking: Searing, sautéing, and simmering in one place builds flavor directly in the pan.

• Perfect for batch cooking: This dish stores well and is ideal for reheating.

One-pan meals have surged in popularity on platforms like Pinterest, where you can discover dozens of variations using similar techniques and ingredients.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This dish is excellent for leftovers and works well for meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat it without losing its texture or flavor:

Storing

• Allow the skillet to cool completely.

• Transfer to an airtight container.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers.

• Best used within 2 months.

• Note: The texture of cheese may change slightly after freezing, but flavor remains intact.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

• Microwave: Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between.

For more inspiration on storing and prepping family meals, explore easy weeknight dinners that also follow the one-pan method.

Creative Variations to Try

This base recipe is incredibly flexible. Try these fun ideas to change things up and make the dish your own:

• Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Top with jalapeño slices for heat.

• Enchilada-Inspired: Before adding the cheese, pour in red enchilada sauce. Simmer for a few minutes, then melt the cheese on top.

• Baked Finish: Transfer the skillet to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

• Add Chorizo: Cook chorizo sausage with the chicken for deeper, spicier flavor.

• Switch the Garnishes: Instead of cilantro, try green onions or radish slices for a crunchy finish.

Need more ideas? Pinterest boards for Mexican skillet meals and cheesy rice dishes are full of creative inspiration for weeknight twists.

FAQs

What’s the difference between Arroz Con Pollo and Mexican rice?
Arroz con pollo is a full meal with rice and chicken cooked together, while Mexican rice is typically a side dish seasoned with tomato, garlic, and spices.

Can you make Arroz Con Pollo with instant rice?
Yes, you can use instant rice. Adjust the liquid by slightly reducing the broth and significantly decreasing the cooking time.

Is this dish spicy?
Not inherently. The base recipe is mild, but you can increase the heat with jalapeños, chipotle, or pepper jack cheese if desired.

Can I make this in a rice cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes. Sauté the chicken and aromatics first, then add everything to your appliance. For best results, consult the specific cooking times for your device.

Can I leave out the cheese?
Absolutely. While the cheese adds richness, it’s optional. The dish still delivers excellent flavor without it.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (like broth and spices) are certified gluten-free.

How can I make it dairy-free?
Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy-free.

What can I serve with this dish?
Great pairings include refried beans, tortillas, grilled corn, or a simple side salad.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes. Use a larger skillet or Dutch oven to accommodate more ingredients and adjust simmer times slightly.

How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?
Use long-grain rice and toast it before adding liquid. Don’t over-stir once it starts simmering.

Print