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One Skillet Cheesy Cuban Chicken Rice Bake

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Cuban
  • Diet: Halal

Description

A flavorful one-skillet meal inspired by Cuban cuisine, featuring tender chicken, seasoned rice, and melty cheese with hints of garlic, cumin, and citrus.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup long grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add rice and toast for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, orange juice, and lime juice. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet. Cover with foil or a lid and transfer to the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for 5-7 more minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use precooked rotisserie chicken for a faster version.
  • Add black beans or olives for extra Cuban flair.
  • Pairs well with a side of fried plantains or avocado slices.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg