Cheesy One-Pan Rotel Chicken & Rice Delight
Discover the ultimate family-friendly meal with this Cheesy One-Pan Rotel Chicken & Rice Delight. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal prep time and only one skillet for easy cleanup. Chicken tenders are simmered to perfection in a flavorful blend of chicken broth and zesty Rotel tomatoes, creating a colorful and delicious dish. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, it's a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will rave about. Prepare in just 25 minutes or less for a satisfying, hearty dinner that’s bound to become a favorite in your home! Pro-tip: Pair it with a fresh, crisp salad for a delightful balance.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chicken tenders
1 lb (raw)
Chicken broth
16 ounces (canned)
Rotel tomatoes
10 ounces (canned)
White rice
1 cup (uncooked)
Shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup (for topping)
Garlic powder
to taste (for seasoning)
Salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Black pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy One-Pan Rotel Chicken & Rice Delight?
It is a family-friendly, one-skillet meal featuring chicken tenders, white rice, and zesty Rotel tomatoes topped with melted cheddar cheese.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
You can prepare this entire meal in 25 minutes or less, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires 8 ingredients, including basic pantry staples like salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
What kind of chicken is best for this dish?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 lb of chicken tenders for a quick and tender result.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts; just ensure they are cut into smaller pieces so they cook evenly with the rice.
What type of rice should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of uncooked white rice.
Can I substitute white rice with brown rice?
You can use brown rice, but it will require significantly more liquid and a longer cooking time than specified in this 25-minute recipe.
What are Rotel tomatoes?
Rotel tomatoes are a canned blend of diced tomatoes and green chilies that add a zesty flavor to the dish.
How much chicken broth is required?
You will need 16 ounces of canned chicken broth for this recipe.
What size can of Rotel tomatoes should I buy?
This recipe uses one 10-ounce can of Rotel tomatoes.
Is this a true one-pan meal?
Yes, the entire dish is cooked in a single skillet, which means minimal prep and very easy cleanup.
What kind of cheese is used for the topping?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to be melted over the top.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely. While cheddar is recommended, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack would also be delicious options.
How should I season the chicken and rice?
Season the dish with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to your personal taste.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is designed to be a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Is the dish very spicy?
The Rotel tomatoes add a zesty kick, but the cheddar cheese and rice help balance the heat. Use 'Mild' Rotel for a less spicy version.
What can I serve as a side dish?
A fresh, crisp salad is recommended to provide a delightful balance to the cheesy rice.
Can I add vegetables to this one-pan meal?
Yes, you can easily stir in frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers while the rice simmers.
Do I need to cook the rice before adding it to the pan?
No, the rice should be added uncooked as it simmers and cooks in the chicken broth and tomato juices.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this chicken and rice dish?
Yes, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, though the rice texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free; however, always check your chicken broth and spices to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Can I use water instead of chicken broth?
You can use water, but chicken broth is highly recommended as it provides the primary flavor base for the rice.
Should I drain the Rotel tomatoes?
No, do not drain them. The liquid in the can is full of flavor and is needed to help cook the rice.
What if my rice is still crunchy after the liquid is gone?
If the rice isn't tender, add a splash more broth or water, cover with a lid, and simmer for a few more minutes.
Can I use precooked or rotisserie chicken?
Yes, if using precooked chicken, add it at the very end just to heat it through while the cheese melts.
How do I make the dish even cheesier?
You can stir half of the cheese into the rice once it's cooked and then sprinkle the remaining half on top.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats very well in the microwave, making it a great option for work lunches.
What size skillet should I use?
A large, deep skillet (about 12 inches) with a tight-fitting lid is best for this recipe.
How many people does this recipe serve?
While the exact serving count varies, 1 lb of chicken and 1 cup of rice typically serves 3 to 4 people.