One-Pan Fiesta Lime Chicken & Mexican Rice: Easy Weeknight Dinner

Craving a vibrant and flavorful meal that's ready in under an hour? Look no further than our Fiesta Lime Chicken with Queso! This recipe delivers a burst of zesty lime, savory chicken, and creamy, cheesy goodness all in one delicious dish. Imagine tender chicken marinated in a bright lime-cilantro dressing, then roasted to perfection alongside a simple yet satisfying Mexican rice. The crowning glory? A generous helping of homemade queso, rich and smooth, to perfectly complement the juicy chicken. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual get-together with friends.

Forget complicated recipes and endless cleanup – this dish simplifies weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor. We’ve combined the best of Mexican cuisine into a simple, satisfying meal that’s both impressive and easy to execute. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to make your own Fiesta Lime Chicken with Queso!

Tools Needed

  • 9x13 casserole dish
  • Baking sheet
  • Bowls
  • Spoon
  • Knife

Ingredients

  • Chicken thighs: 8
  • Paprika (smoked): 1 tablespoon
  • Cumin: 1 teaspoon
  • Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
  • Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon
  • Honey: a drizzle
  • Lime: 1
  • Spanish rice (pre-made): 2 packs
  • Bell peppers: null
  • Onions: null
  • Olive oil: null
  • Queso: ½ container
  • Pepper jack cheese (optional): null
  • Flour tortillas: null
  • Beans: null
  • Pico de gallo (homemade): null

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Chicken and Spices

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a bowl, combine paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley.
  • Toss chicken thighs in the spice mixture until well coated. Drizzle with honey and mix.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).In a bowl, combine paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Toss chicken thighs in the spice mixture until well coated. Drizzle with honey and mix.
Prepare the Chicken and Spices

Step 2. Bake the Chicken

  • Place chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Place chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Bake the Chicken

Step 3. Assemble and Bake the Fiesta

  • Layer the bottom of a 9x13 casserole dish with Spanish rice.
  • Layer sautéed bell peppers and onions over the rice.
  • Arrange the baked chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
  • Squeeze lime juice over the chicken.
Layer the bottom of a 9x13 casserole dish with Spanish rice.Layer sautéed bell peppers and onions over the rice.Arrange the baked chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.Squeeze lime juice over the chicken.
Assemble and Bake the Fiesta
  • Spread half of the queso over the chicken.
  • Bake for another 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Spread half of the queso over the chicken.Bake for another 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Assemble and Bake the Fiesta

Step 4. Serve

  • Serve with flour tortillas, beans, and pico de gallo.
Serve with flour tortillas, beans, and pico de gallo.
Serve

Read more: Juicy Birria Quesa Tacos Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs.
  • Feel free to make your own Spanish rice or use pre-cooked fajita vegetables for convenience.
  • Add extra pepper jack cheese if desired.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes! Bone-in, boneless, skin-on, or skinless chicken breasts or thighs all work well. Adjust cooking time accordingly; bone-in pieces will take longer.

2. What can I substitute for the queso?

If you're short on time or prefer a different cheese, you can use store-bought queso or a simple sour cream and shredded cheese mixture instead.


This One-Pan Fiesta Lime Chicken & Mexican Rice recipe is a winner for its ease, flavor, and minimal cleanup. Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors and the satisfaction of a delicious, homemade meal without the fuss. So gather your ingredients and get ready to experience a fiesta of flavor in your own kitchen!