Cheesy Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet – One Pan Wonder!

Name: Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 1 cup long grain white rice; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp taco seasoning; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Sour cream (to taste); Sliced jalapeños (optional); Fresh cilantro, chopped (to taste)

Recipe By:

Emily Harrison

Posted:

September 5, 2025

Updated:

September 5, 2025

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Imagine a colorful, sizzling one-pan dish that brings the delightful flavors of Tex-Mex right to your kitchen. The Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is a cheesy, comforting meal that dances on your taste buds, making every bite a fiesta. Picture tender chicken mingling with vibrant peppers and fluffy rice, all topped with melty cheese that pulls apart like a gooey love story. It’s the kind of dish that fills the air with mouthwatering aromas, making it impossible to resist.

Now, let’s get personal—this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is not just a recipe; it’s a memory maker. I remember the first time I made this for my family; their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning. We gathered around the table, laughter filling the air as we savored each cheesy bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend gathering, this dish has become our go-to comfort food. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet offers an effortless preparation that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes
Its bold Tex-Mex flavor profile will excite your taste buds with every bite
The visual appeal of vibrant colors makes it ideal for impressing guests or family alike
Versatile enough to serve as a quick weeknight dinner or festive gathering centerpiece

I once served this at a family reunion, and the empty pan spoke volumes about its popularity!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts, adjusting based on how hungry your crowd is.
Long Grain White Rice: Opt for long grain for fluffy texture; avoid sticky varieties.
Bell Peppers: Choose colorful ones—red, yellow, and green—for a vibrant presentation.
Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness; chop it finely for even cooking.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates flavor; use at least three cloves for maximum impact.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control saltiness while enhancing richness.
Taco Seasoning: Use store-bought or homemade for an authentic Tex-Mex flavor kick.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts wonderfully—feel free to mix!

For the Toppings:

Sour Cream: A dollop adds creaminess and balances the spices perfectly.
Sliced Jalapeños: Optional but recommended for those who like a spicy kick!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness; chop some up to sprinkle on top before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your chicken into bite-sized pieces and dicing the onion and bell peppers. This ensures even cooking and easy assembly later.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions until translucent—about 3-4 minutes. Toss in bell peppers and garlic; cook until fragrant.

Add Chicken: Stir in chicken pieces along with taco seasoning. Cook until chicken is browned on all sides—approximately 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring to avoid sticking!

Add Rice & Broth: Mix in rice and pour in chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil while scraping any tasty bits off the bottom of the pan.

Simmer Away: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes until rice absorbs liquid and becomes tender.

Melt That Cheese: Remove from heat and sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Cover again until melted—about 2-3 minutes does wonders!

Now you have your delicious Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet ready to enjoy! Serve hot with toppings like sour cream or jalapeños for added flair!

You Must Know

This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is a one-pan wonder, packed with Tex Mex flavor
Its vibrant colors and enticing aroma create an inviting meal that pleases everyone
Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the chicken first before adding rice and veggies. This ensures everything cooks evenly, sealing in delicious flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for ground beef or turkey. You can also add black beans or corn for extra texture.

Storing & Reheating

To store, keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat on the stove to maintain flavor and texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh spices instead of old ones for maximum flavor impact
Cooking the rice in chicken broth adds depth to your dish
Make sure not to overcook the chicken; juicy meat is key!

I once made this dish for an impromptu dinner party, and everyone went back for seconds—my friends still rave about it!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead, but add toppings just before serving for freshness.

What can I substitute for rice in this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet?

Quinoa or cauliflower rice works well if you’re looking for healthier alternatives.

How can I make this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet spicier?

Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during cooking to ramp up the heat level.

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