Pollo Loco - Mexican Chicken and Rice
Try this Pollo Loco - Mexican Chicken and Rice recipe.
Try this Pollo Loco - Mexican Chicken and Rice recipe.
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp dried minced onion flakes
- chopped tomato
- 1 bottle lawry's baja chipotle marinade or lawry's mesquite
- 1 cup uncooked long grain rice (not instant)
- 1 tsp pampered chef southwestern seasoning or taco seaso
- 1 container mexican queso (i usedâ gordos cheese dip)
- Carbohydrate 52.2444333723323 g
- Cholesterol 2387.52 mg
- Fat 413.499683347785 g
- Fiber 13.9185000250195 g
- Protein 686.493166676235 g
- Saturated Fat 111.343881146983 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Recipe (4342g)
- Sodium 7409.13667046508 mg
- Sugar 38.3259333473128 g
- Trans Fat 35.3982848963919 g
- Calories 6816 calories
Step-by-step
- Pour Baja Chipotle Marinade over chicken and let marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or overnight.
- When ready, grill chicken until done (165 degrees).
- While the chicken is grilling prepare the rice.
- Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and add rice. Cook, stirring constantly, until puffed and golden.
- While rice is cooking, sprinkle with salt and Southwestern or Taco Seasoning.
- Stir in onion flakes, tomato sauce and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork.
- Heat cheese dip according to package directions set aside.
- To assemble the Pollo Loco - place 1/4 of the rice on a plate, top with grilled chicken.
- Pour 2-3 Tbsp cheese dip over chicken and rice and top with chopped tomatoes.
My Favorite Weeknight Dinner: Pollo Loco
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can feel like a constant struggle. But let me tell you, this Pollo Loco recipe is a game-changer. It's quick, flavorful, and satisfying, perfect for those nights when you're short on time but don't want to compromise on taste. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The marinade infuses the chicken with a smoky, slightly spicy kick that's addictive, and the rice, seasoned with Southwestern spices, adds a perfect complement of texture and flavor. I often double the recipe, as leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference – more chipotle for a bolder flavor, or less for a milder kick. I sometimes add a handful of black beans to the rice for extra protein and fiber. The toppings are also endlessly customizable. Instead of tomatoes, I often use shredded lettuce, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream. And don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses all work wonderfully. This dish is a fantastic way to introduce bold Mexican flavors into your everyday routine without requiring hours in the kitchen.
The secret to perfectly grilled chicken, in my opinion, is all in the marinade. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, ensures that the flavors penetrate deeply, resulting in incredibly juicy and tender meat. While the chicken grills, I take the opportunity to prepare the rice. This is a great opportunity to multitask and efficiently use your time. The rice cooks quickly, and the aromatic spices create a fragrant and inviting aroma in the kitchen. The combination of fluffy rice, perfectly seasoned chicken, and creamy cheese dip is simply irresistible.
This Pollo Loco recipe has become a staple in our family's dinner rotation. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even with picky eaters! My kids love the vibrant colors and bold flavors, and it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables. The entire process, from marinating to serving, takes less than an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal solution. Give this recipe a try, and I'm confident it will become a new family favorite in your home as well. It is a perfect balance of convenience, taste and satisfaction!
Tips for success:
- Marinate longer for more intense flavor: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better!
- Don't overcook the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust the spices to your liking: Feel free to add more or less of the chipotle pepper or other spices according to your taste preference.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings to create your perfect Pollo Loco bowl.
- Make it a party dish: This recipe easily doubles or triples, making it a perfect option for gatherings and potlucks.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of simple flavors and family time. It’s a testament to the fact that delicious, satisfying food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. I hope you'll give it a try and share the deliciousness with your loved ones!
