One-Pan Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

When it comes to easy, weeknight meals that the whole family will love, the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is a go-to dish. This recipe brings together the hearty goodness of tender chicken, flavorful rice, and the zest of taco seasonings—all in one pan. With minimal prep, a short cooking time, and loads of satisfying flavors, it’s the perfect dish for busy days when you want something both delicious and nutritious. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy dinner option, this skillet meal will become your new weeknight favorite.

The beauty of the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet lies in its versatility. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste, add your favorite taco toppings, or even swap out ingredients depending on what’s in your pantry. Whether you’re preparing it for Taco Tuesday or just craving something warm and comforting, this dish delivers in both taste and convenience. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.

What You’ll Need for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

For the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet, you don’t need many ingredients—just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients to bring everything together. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients for the Skillet:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 pound chicken breast (boneless, skinless, cut into small cubes)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier twist)
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces, drained)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or use homemade seasoning if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon cumin (for extra depth of flavor)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
• Taco toppings (optional, such as sour cream, salsa, avocado, lettuce)

Optional Add-Ins and Variations:

• Black beans (for added protein and fiber)
• Corn kernels (for a burst of sweetness)
• Jalapeños (if you prefer some heat)
• Chopped tomatoes (to add a fresh twist to the skillet)

With these simple ingredients, you'll have all the flavors of taco night without the hassle of assembling individual tacos. This dish combines the rich flavors of chicken, rice, and taco seasoning in one skillet, making it a one-pot wonder that’s both quick and satisfying.

How to Make for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring them together for the perfect Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet. Follow these easy steps to create a meal that’s packed with flavor and made in one pan.

1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add your chicken breast cubes to the skillet. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Next, add diced onion and diced bell pepper to the same skillet. Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the bell peppers soften slightly. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

2. Add Rice and Broth

Once the vegetables are ready, stir in the rice and cook for about 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly and absorb the flavors. This step helps give the rice an extra depth of flavor. After that, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the canned diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in your taco seasoning, cumin, and any additional seasonings you prefer. Stir everything to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the seasoning mix.

3. Simmer the Rice and Chicken

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook for about 15-20 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the liquid and cook through. Check the rice occasionally to make sure it’s not sticking to the bottom of the pan, adding more broth or water if necessary.

Once the rice is tender and the liquid has mostly evaporated, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine everything, making sure the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the rice. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes to reheat the chicken and meld all the flavors together.

4. Add Cheese and Serve

Once the chicken and rice are fully cooked, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover the pan again for about 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese into a gooey, melty layer that will make your dish even more irresistible.

Garnish your skillet with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a burst of freshness, and serve with optional taco toppings like sour cream, salsa, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.

Serving and Storage Tips for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is a crowd-pleaser and can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and what you have on hand. Here are some tips on how to serve it and how to store any leftovers.

Serving Suggestions:

This skillet meal is already packed with everything you need—protein, vegetables, and carbs—but you can serve it with some extra sides to complete the meal. Here are a few ideas:

• Taco-style toppings: As mentioned earlier, serve your skillet with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped lettuce, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
• Corn tortillas or chips: If you love the classic taco experience, serve the skillet with some warm corn tortillas or tortilla chips on the side. These add a fun crunch that pairs perfectly with the flavors of the skillet.
• Green salad: A simple green salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette will add some fresh, zesty flavors that complement the richness of the skillet.

Storage Tips:

If you happen to have leftovers (which is likely because this recipe makes a hearty amount!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making this dish even more delicious on the second day.

For longer storage, you can freeze your Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet. Simply allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or water if needed to bring back its original texture.

Mistakes to Avoid for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

While the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is an easy dish to prepare, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Avoiding these pitfalls will help ensure you create a perfect meal every time.

1. Overcrowding the Pan

One mistake many people make when cooking in a skillet is overcrowding the pan. If the skillet is too full, the chicken and vegetables won’t brown properly. Instead, they’ll steam. This can lead to soggy textures and bland flavors. To avoid this, make sure your skillet is large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably. If needed, you can cook the chicken in batches.

2. Underseasoning the Rice

Since the rice is the base of this dish, it’s important to season it well. If you don’t use enough taco seasoning or salt, the rice can taste bland and uninteresting. Be sure to taste as you go and add extra seasonings as needed. If you prefer a spicier dish, don’t hesitate to kick up the heat with chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a chopped jalapeño.

3. Not Letting the Rice Cook Long Enough

Another common mistake is not allowing the rice to cook for long enough. If the rice is undercooked, it will be hard and dry, which is not the texture you want in a skillet dish. Be patient and let the rice absorb all the liquid, stirring occasionally. If you find the liquid evaporates before the rice is tender, add a little more broth or water and continue cooking until the rice is fully cooked.

4. Forgetting to Add Cheese at the End

Cheese is the finishing touch that takes this dish from good to great. Don’t skip this step! Once the rice and chicken are cooked, adding cheese on top and letting it melt creates a delicious, gooey layer that binds everything together. If you forget to add it, your skillet will lack that comforting, cheesy flavor that everyone loves.

Tips and Tricks for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

To really make your Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet stand out, try incorporating these tips and tricks. These little changes will enhance the flavor, texture, and presentation of your dish.

1. Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor

While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the easiest and quickest option, you can use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor. Bone-in chicken will add richness to the dish, and the bones help keep the meat moist as it cooks. Just be sure to cook the chicken until it’s fully done (internal temperature of 165°F), and then remove the bones before chopping it into pieces.

2. Spice it Up with Fresh Jalapeños or Hot Sauce

If you like your tacos with a little extra heat, don’t be shy about adding fresh jalapeños to the skillet. You can chop them up and sauté them with the onions and bell peppers, or slice them and add them as a topping. For an even quicker option, drizzle your dish with your favorite hot sauce for an instant burst of flavor.

3. Make It a Meal Prep Superstar

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and store individual portions in airtight containers for lunches throughout the week. It reheats beautifully and makes for a satisfying, well-balanced meal. If you prefer a more customizable approach, set up a “taco bar” with various toppings like sour cream, salsa, shredded lettuce, and avocado so each person can build their own perfect skillet bowl.

4. Add a Dash of Lime or Fresh Cilantro

A squeeze of lime juice just before serving adds a fresh, zesty finish that brightens up the dish. Garnishing with fresh cilantro also brings a pop of color and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a bit of chopped red onion or pickled onions to add tang and crunch.

5. Make It a One-Pot Meal by Adding Beans or Corn

For a heartier dish, consider adding black beans or corn to the skillet. Both options work perfectly with the taco flavors and will make the dish even more filling. You can add them alongside the rice or mix them in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat them through.

Sweet and Spicy Honey Chicken

Suggestions

One of the great things about this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is how customizable it is. You can easily make adjustments to fit your dietary preferences, or to match whatever ingredients you have in your pantry. Here are a few suggestions to make this skillet even more your own:

1. Swap the Protein: Chicken Alternatives

While chicken is the star of this dish, you can easily swap it out for other proteins depending on what you prefer. Here are some alternatives:

• Ground turkey or ground beef: Both of these options work great if you prefer a different kind of meat. Brown the ground meat first before adding the seasonings and vegetables.
• Shredded rotisserie chicken: This is a great shortcut if you’re short on time. Simply shred some pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and stir it into the skillet at the end to heat through.
• Tofu or Tempeh: For a vegetarian version, cubed tofu or tempeh can be used as a plant-based protein. Just be sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking.

2. Go for Brown Rice for Added Fiber

If you’re looking for a healthier, more fiber-rich alternative, try swapping the white rice for brown rice. While brown rice takes a bit longer to cook, it adds more texture and nutritional value. It will also help you stay full for longer due to its higher fiber content.

3. Add Extra Vegetables

For a more well-rounded meal, feel free to add extra vegetables to the skillet. Consider adding:

• Zucchini or yellow squash: Dice them up and cook them alongside the onions and bell peppers. They add a mild flavor and extra vitamins.
• Spinach or kale: Stir in a couple of handfuls of leafy greens toward the end of cooking for an extra boost of iron and vitamins. They’ll wilt down quickly and blend into the dish beautifully.
• Sweet potatoes: For a sweet twist, add diced sweet potatoes. They pair wonderfully with the taco seasoning and provide extra nutrients.

4. Experiment with Different Cheese Options

Cheese can be a game-changer in any skillet dish, but you don’t have to stick to the usual cheddar. Experiment with different varieties to change up the flavor profile:

• Monterey Jack: A mild, melty cheese that works beautifully in Mexican-style dishes.
• Cotija cheese: For a tangy, crumbly finish, sprinkle some Cotija over the dish just before serving.
• Pepper Jack: If you like a little heat, Pepper Jack will add some spice along with the creamy texture.

5. Spice it Up with Different Seasonings

If you’re looking to get creative with the flavor, try swapping the taco seasoning for another spice blend:

• Fajita seasoning: This will give the skillet a nice kick with a mix of cumin, chili powder, and garlic.
• Smoked paprika: For a smoky, earthy flavor, try adding smoked paprika in place of the cumin. It pairs wonderfully with the chicken and rice.
• Chipotle chili powder: If you love a smoky, spicy kick, chipotle chili powder will bring depth and heat to the dish.

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FAQ

To make sure you get the best results with your Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet, here are some answers to frequently asked questions:

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

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the entire skillet ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works great in this recipe, though it does take a bit longer to cook. You’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes, and make sure to check the rice to see if it needs extra liquid as it cooks. For a quicker alternative, you could also use instant brown rice.

How do I make this dish spicier?

If you love spice, you can increase the heat by adding a jalapeño to the skillet along with the onion and bell pepper. Alternatively, use chipotle chili powder, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to kick up the heat. Adjust the seasoning until you get the desired level of spiciness.

What can I serve with this dish?

While the skillet on its own is a hearty, satisfying meal, you can serve it with some tasty sides to complete the meal. Try serving with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or a simple green salad with lime dressing. If you prefer, you can also serve it with warm tortillas or tortilla chips.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little extra chicken broth to loosen it up.

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Conclusion

The Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: quick, flavorful, and customizable. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish brings the bold flavors of tacos into a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to clean up. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe offers flexibility, deliciousness, and convenience.

One of the best things about this skillet dish is how adaptable it is. You can swap in your favorite proteins, change up the seasonings, or add extra vegetables for a nutritious boost. With the smoky taco spices, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Plus, the option to top it with melty cheese and your favorite taco toppings makes this dish an all-time crowd-pleaser.

So, the next time you’re looking for a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and ready in under an hour, give this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet a try. It’s bound to become a go-to dinner for busy nights, and you’ll love the delicious leftovers just as much!

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