Uncle Ben’s Fiesta Chicken: A Comforting Classic

There’s something undeniably special about a dish that feels like a warm hug from the past. For me, Uncle Ben’s Fiesta Chicken evokes memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, a place where the aroma of simmering spices and rice always promised a delicious adventure. I remember pulling up a stool to watch her, mesmerized by how simple ingredients transformed into a vibrant, flavorful meal. This recipe, unearthed from the back of a humble brown rice package, became a staple in our home, a testament to the power of accessible, honest cooking. It’s a dish that doesn’t demand fancy techniques but delivers pure, unadulterated comfort and flavor, perfect for those weeknight evenings when a little taste of home is just what you need.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 1 pie (Note: While the recipe instructs to cook in a saucepan, the yield is referenced as a pie in the original data, which is an interesting point of consideration for presentation.)
• Dietary Type: Chicken

Ingredients

Gather these simple, wholesome ingredients to bring this flavorful dish to life:

• 1 ½ cups Uncle Ben’s Natural Whole Grain Brown Rice
• 4 chicken breast halves (about 3 pounds total)
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 3 cups water
• ¾ cup prepared salsa
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped

Equipment Needed

• 5-quart saucepan with a tight-fitting lid
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to create your own Uncle Ben’s Fiesta Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into ½-inch strips. This ensures they cook evenly and integrate beautifully into the rice mixture.
2. Sear the Chicken: Place your 5-quart saucepan with a tight-fitting lid over medium-high heat. Spray the pan generously with nonstick cooking spray and add the prepared chicken strips. Cook the chicken until it is fully cooked, which should take approximately 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer pink in the center.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: To the same pan with the cooked chicken, add the diced onion, diced red bell pepper, and chili powder. Mix everything well, ensuring the spices coat the chicken and vegetables. Continue to cook for 2 minutes more, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and the chili powder to release its fragrant aroma.
4. Combine and Simmer: Now, it’s time to bring the dish together. Add the Uncle Ben’s Natural Whole Grain Brown Rice, water, prepared salsa, and frozen corn kernels to the saucepan. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Cook the Rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pan tightly, and let it simmer for 30 minutes. This slow cooking process allows the rice to absorb all the delicious flavors and become perfectly tender.
6. Rest and Serve: After 30 minutes of simmering, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the chopped cilantro, then keep the pan covered for 5 minutes more. This resting period allows the flavors to meld further and ensures the rice is perfectly fluffy. Serve hot.

Expert Tips & Tricks

For an even more vibrant and flavorful experience, consider these chef-inspired suggestions:

• Spice Level: The chili powder provides a gentle warmth, but if you enjoy a little more heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño along with the onions and bell peppers.
• Salsa Savvy: The type of prepared salsa you use will significantly impact the final flavor. A medium or hot salsa will offer more punch, while a mild or sweet salsa will result in a mellower dish. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different brands and flavor profiles.
• Beyond Brown Rice: While Uncle Ben’s Natural Whole Grain Brown Rice is specified for its texture and nutritional benefits, other medium-grain rice varieties could be used, though cooking times might need adjustment. Always follow the package instructions for the rice you choose.
• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like diced zucchini, peas, or even a can of drained black beans for added texture and nutrients. Introduce them at step 3 to cook alongside the onions and peppers.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Uncle Ben’s Fiesta Chicken is a complete meal in itself, bursting with flavor and texture. It’s wonderful served directly from the saucepan, garnished with a little extra fresh cilantro for a pop of color and herbaceousness. For a heartier meal, it can be served alongside a simple green salad or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth if it seems a bit dry. You can also microwave individual portions until heated through.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	331.3 kcal
Calories from Fat
Total Fat	6.5 g	10%
Saturated Fat	1.7 g	8%
Cholesterol	31.4 mg	10%
Sodium	249.4 mg	10%
Total Carbohydrate	53.3 g	17%
Dietary Fiber	4.2 g	16%
Sugars	3 g	12%
Protein	16.5 g	33%

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods used.

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is a beloved classic as is, there’s always room for personalization:

• For a Vegetarian Twist: Omit the chicken and add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or chickpeas along with the rice and salsa. You could also incorporate extra vegetables like corn, bell peppers, and zucchini for a heartier vegetarian option.
• Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño pepper with the onions and bell peppers, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the simmering mixture.
• Herbaceous Notes: While cilantro is traditional, fresh parsley or chives can offer a different but equally delightful herbaceous counterpoint.

FAQs

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will also work beautifully, offering a richer, more succulent flavor. They may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through.

Q: What if I don’t have Uncle Ben’s Natural Whole Grain Brown Rice?
A: Any medium or long-grain brown rice will work. Just be sure to adjust the water and cooking time according to the specific rice package instructions to achieve the perfect texture.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, this dish is quite forgiving. You can prepare it up to the point of simmering and then refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra liquid if needed.

Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: The spiciness will largely depend on the prepared salsa you use. The chili powder in the recipe offers a mild warmth, but a hot salsa will naturally increase the heat level.

Q: How can I make the chicken more tender?
A: Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken in step 2. Searing it just until it’s no longer pink is key. The subsequent simmering in liquid will help keep it moist and tender.

Final Thoughts

Uncle Ben’s Fiesta Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to how simple, honest ingredients can create something truly satisfying and memorable. It’s the kind of dish that brings people to the table, sparking conversation and creating shared moments. Whether you’re revisiting a childhood favorite or discovering it for the first time, I encourage you to embrace its straightforward charm and enjoy the delicious comfort it offers. Pair it with a crisp glass of white wine or a refreshing Mexican-style beer, and savor every flavorful bite. I’d love to hear about your own experiences with this wonderfully accessible recipe!