One Skillet Cheesy Cuban Chicken Rice Bake

One Skillet Cheesy Cuban Chicken Rice Bake is a vibrant, comforting dish that captures the bold flavors of Cuban cuisine in one easy pan. It features seasoned chicken, aromatic rice, peppers, black beans, and melty cheese, all cooked together for a hearty and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. This recipe brings together convenience and rich flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-skillet meal for easy cooking and cleanup
• Bold, Cuban-inspired flavor from spices, lime, and herbs
• Packed with protein, veggies, and grains for a balanced meal
• Melty cheese topping for comfort-food satisfaction
• Customizable ingredients to suit your tastes
• Meal prep and freezer friendly
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• Naturally gluten-free with simple swaps
• A perfect dish for both dinner and leftovers
• Great for casual entertaining or potlucks

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• Olive oil
• Yellow onion, chopped
• Red bell pepper, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Dried oregano
• Ground cumin
• Cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper
• Long grain white rice
• Broken spaghetti or thin pasta (optional for texture)
• Tomato paste
• Black beans, rinsed and drained
• Pepperoncini or chopped dill pickles (optional, adds tang)
• Fresh lime zest and juice
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in diced chicken, bell pepper, garlic, oregano, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5–6 minutes, until chicken is lightly browned.
4. Push the chicken mixture to one side and add the broken spaghetti and rice to the pan. Toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
5. Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 1 more minute. Add about 2 cups water and the pepperoncini or pickles, if using. Stir everything together.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed and rice is nearly tender.
7. Stir in black beans, cilantro, lime zest, and juice. Mix well.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the mixture.
9. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with more cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and double the beans or add tofu
• Spicier: Add more cayenne or diced jalapeños
• Cheese Options: Use cheddar, Monterey jack, or a blend for a different flavor
• Low-Carb: Substitute cauliflower rice (add at the end instead of cooking it in the skillet)
• No Rice: Use quinoa or orzo instead of white rice

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may need extra liquid. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Do I need to cook the rice separately?

No, the rice cooks directly in the skillet with the rest of the ingredients, absorbing all the delicious flavors.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, add it after the rice is mostly cooked since it’s already fully cooked. Just heat through before adding the cheese.

Is this dish spicy?

It can be! Adjust the cayenne to taste or leave it out for a milder version.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

What type of cheese melts best?

Swiss gives a classic Cuban flair, but mozzarella or Monterey jack melt smoothly and are mild enough to complement the spices.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely—try corn, peas, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.

Do I have to bake it?

Technically no, but baking helps melt and brown the cheese topping beautifully. You can also cover it on the stove to melt the cheese.

Is this good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores and reheats very well. It’s ideal for make-ahead meals.

What sides go well with this?

Try a green salad, fried plantains, or a simple avocado and tomato salad.

Conclusion

One Skillet Cheesy Cuban Chicken Rice Bake is a bold, flavorful meal that brings together the essence of Cuban comfort food with the ease of one-pan cooking. Packed with spices, protein, and gooey cheese, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty without the hassle. It’s flexible, fun to make, and sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

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