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One-Pan Creamy Protein Burrito Bake

One-Pan Creamy Protein Burrito Bake - featured image
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A quick and easy weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and black beans in a rich, creamy Tex-Mex sauce, all cooked in a single pan for minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice (Jasmine or long-grain)
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for sautéing)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons Tex-Mex seasoning
  • 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 stalks green onions, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Dice the chicken into 1-inch cubes and rinse the uncooked rice under cold water until clear. Pat chicken dry.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the rinsed rice and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Add the chicken broth, black beans, frozen corn, and 1 tablespoon of Tex-Mex seasoning. Stir to combine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid.
  6. While rice cooks, whisk together heavy cream, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Tex-Mex seasoning until smooth.
  7. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork. Stir in the cooked chicken, creamy sauce mixture, and half of the shredded cheese until evenly coated.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Place under a broiler for 2-3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden, or bake in a casserole dish at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
  9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions.

Notes

Do not use instant rice as it will turn to mush. Toasting the rice before adding liquid adds nutty flavor and prevents clumping. Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the sauce. If using brown rice, increase cooking liquid and time significantly. For a vegetarian version, swap chicken for extra beans or mushrooms.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan dinner, creamy burrito bake, easy weeknight meal, high protein recipe, chicken and rice, family friendly dinner, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/one-pan-creamy-protein-burrito-bake-5-step-easy-dinner/