Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe

Introduction

Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is a flavorful, hearty, and easy-to-make dish that combines the best elements of a taco with the comforting goodness of rice. This one-pan meal delivers savory chicken, zesty taco seasoning, tender rice, and all the delicious taco toppings you love—all in a single skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors, making it a hit with the whole family.

This dish is a fantastic option for taco night or any time you’re craving something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a tasty dinner, meal prep idea, or a fun twist on taco night, the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

• One-Pan Convenience: With everything cooked in a single skillet, cleanup is a breeze, making this an ideal recipe for busy evenings or meal prepping for the week.
• Delicious Taco Flavor: This dish is packed with all the bold flavors of tacos, including seasoned chicken, zesty salsa, and rice. It’s like enjoying taco night but with a fun twist.
• Quick and Easy: The Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet comes together in about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.
• Versatile: You can customize the toppings, seasonings, and add-ins to suit your taste. Whether you like a little heat or prefer it milder, this recipe allows for plenty of flexibility.
• Satisfying and Filling: The combination of tender chicken and fluffy rice creates a hearty and filling dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. It’s a one-pot dish that will leave everyone satisfied and full.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 4-6g

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into small cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning, see notes)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth (or water)
• 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on preference)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

For Toppings (Optional):

• Sour cream
• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Sliced jalapeños
• Chopped tomatoes
• Chopped lettuce
• Lime wedges

Special Equipment

While making the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet doesn’t require specialized equipment, there are a few tools that will help make the cooking process easier:

1. Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: A large skillet or Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe, as it allows all the ingredients to cook together in one pan. It also provides enough space for the rice to cook evenly without overcrowding the pan.
2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting the chicken into uniform pieces, as well as dicing the onion and garlic efficiently.
3. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A sturdy wooden spoon or spatula is perfect for stirring the ingredients while ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements help ensure the right balance of seasonings and liquid, ensuring the dish turns out perfectly every time.
5. Lid for Skillet: A lid helps trap steam while the rice cooks, allowing it to cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the chicken and seasonings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. If needed, season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your pan, so the chicken doesn’t overcrowd the skillet.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and the garlic becomes fragrant. This will create a flavorful base for the dish.

3. Add the Rice and Taco Seasoning

Add the rice to the skillet and stir it with the onions and garlic, allowing it to lightly toast for 1-2 minutes. This step helps to enhance the flavor of the rice. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, and stir until the rice is coated with the seasoning.

4. Add the Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and salsa, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If using brown rice, it may take an additional 10-15 minutes to cook through, so be sure to check it periodically.

5. Add the Chicken and Other Ingredients

Once the rice is cooked, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained black beans and corn kernels. Stir everything together to combine, ensuring the chicken and other ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the rice.

Cover the skillet again and let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Add the Cheese

After the dish has simmered, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend) evenly over the top of the rice and chicken. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes. The cheese will become gooey and delicious, creating a cheesy, flavorful layer on top of the dish.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once the cheese has melted, give the skillet a final stir to combine the cheesy rice, chicken, and vegetables. Serve the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet in bowls or on plates, and garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, sliced avocado, jalapeños, or any other toppings you prefer.

Tips for Perfect Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

• Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken: For quicker cooking, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs add a bit more flavor and moisture, while breasts are leaner.
• Customize the Seasonings: If you prefer homemade taco seasoning, feel free to make your own using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne. This allows you to control the spice level and flavor profile.
• Add Extra Veggies: To make this dish even more nutritious, feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes along with the onions and garlic. These will cook along with the other ingredients and add extra flavor and texture.
• Use Brown Rice for a Healthier Option: If you’re looking for a healthier, whole-grain option, brown rice can be used instead of white rice. Just be sure to increase the cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
• Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the rice mixture. You can also use a spicier salsa for an extra kick.

Variations of Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

• Beef and Rice Taco Skillet: Substitute the chicken with ground beef for a different protein option. Ground beef adds a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the taco seasoning.
• Vegetarian Taco Skillet: Omit the chicken and add extra beans, such as black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans. You can also include extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a hearty, plant-based version.
• Southwest Chicken and Rice Skillet: Add a can of diced green chilies, a handful of chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh, Southwest-inspired twist.
• Taco Bowl Version: If you prefer to serve this dish in a bowl, you can top it with traditional taco toppings like chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. You can also serve it alongside tortilla chips for some added crunch.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet can be stored for later use, making it a great dish for meal prepping. After allowing the dish to cool, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Transfer the cooled skillet mixture into a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to help loosen up the rice.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

Pair this delicious dish with complementary sides to enhance the meal:

• Tortilla Chips with Salsa: A bowl of crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa is the perfect snack to serve alongside the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet.
• Guacamole: Serve with a side of creamy guacamole for an extra indulgent experience. The rich, avocado flavor pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken and rice.
• Mexican Street Corn: A side of Mexican street corn (elote) with lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese adds a tangy, smoky flavor that complements the tacos.
• Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette is the perfect refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty skillet dish.

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Conclusion

Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is a perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and comfort. With its one-pan simplicity and vibrant taco seasoning, it’s an easy and delicious way to bring the flavors of taco night to your dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or craving a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation. With endless possibilities for customization and plenty of room to experiment, you’ll love making this skillet dish again and again. Enjoy the savory goodness of the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet—it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone!