Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy weeknight meal, the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is just what you need! This dish brings together tender chicken thighs, colorful veggies, and savory spices all in one skillet. It’s a family favorite in my home because it’s not only quick to make but also packed with flavor. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday night or a casual family gathering, this recipe ticks all the boxes for comfort food that everyone can enjoy.

What makes this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet special is how it effortlessly combines wholesome ingredients into a hearty meal. Plus, it’s gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences without compromising on taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings when time is of the essence.
• Family-Friendly: With its vibrant colors and tasty flavors, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Packed with Flavor: The blend of taco seasoning and fresh lime zest gives this dish a zesty kick that you will love.
• Customizable: Whether you want extra veggies or different toppings, it’s easy to adapt this recipe to your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything you need to create this delicious dish!

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning

For the Veggies:

• 3 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1 small red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 small green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• ½ yellow onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Rice:

• 1 cup white jasmine rice (rinsed well and drained)
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• Zest of ½ lime
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth

For Serving:

• ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro leaves (plus more for garnish)
• Guacamole
• (Omit sour cream to keep dairy-free)
• Corn tortilla chips
• Sliced jalapenos

Variations

This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some corn or black beans for added texture and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños into the skillet while cooking.
• Try different grains: Substitute jasmine rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

How to Make Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. Starting with a hot oven ensures that your dish cooks evenly and helps meld all those delightful flavors together as it bakes.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs with kosher salt and taco seasoning. This step adds depth of flavor right from the start. Make sure every piece is coated well so they become bursting with taste when cooked!

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until they’re slightly softened. This not only enhances their flavor but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Once the vegetables are ready, push them to one side of the skillet and add your seasoned chicken thighs. Cook until they are browned on both sides. This step locks in moisture while giving your chicken a beautiful color.

Step 5: Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rinsed jasmine rice along with additional kosher salt, taco seasoning, lime zest, lime juice, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a simmer; it’s crucial because this allows the rice to absorb all those fantastic flavors.

Step 6: Bake It All Together

Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Baking allows all those ingredients to marry together beautifully!

Step 7: Finish Up

Remove from oven and stir in chopped cilantro before serving. Garnish each plate with guacamole, extra cilantro, corn tortilla chips, or sliced jalapeños as desired. Enjoy this vibrant dish that brings joy to any table!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

Creating a delicious Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is easier than you might think, especially with a few handy tips!

• Use high-quality chicken thighs: Selecting boneless skinless chicken thighs ensures maximum flavor and juiciness, making your skillet dish truly succulent.
• Rinse your rice: Rinsing the white jasmine rice before cooking removes excess starch, resulting in fluffy grains that won’t clump together. This is crucial for a perfect texture.
• Customize your spice level: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding some cayenne pepper or extra jalapeños to the mix. Tailoring the heat level helps make the dish just right for your taste buds!
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the skillet to sit for about 5 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully. This step can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings like fresh avocado or diced tomatoes. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color to your dish!

How to Serve Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

Serving up your Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet can be just as fun as cooking it! Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish in style.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness that perfectly complements the taco seasoning.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who love an extra kick, sliced jalapeños provide both heat and crunch, enhancing the overall experience.
• Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges alongside allows everyone to squeeze a little citrus over their portion, brightening up the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant combination of corn, lime juice, cilantro, and spices makes this salad a refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with your skillet.
• Black Bean Salad: With black beans mixed with corn, diced tomatoes, onions, and avocado, this protein-packed salad adds great texture and flavor contrast.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole serves as a delicious dip alongside tortilla chips while enhancing the overall Mexican theme of the meal.
• Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up any leftover chicken and rice mixture or enjoying with guacamole.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll surely impress family and friends with your Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is not only a delightful meal but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy the flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skillet to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the skillet cool down to room temperature.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• For stovetop reheating, place on medium heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using a microwave, transfer to a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Enjoy with fresh toppings like guacamole or cilantro after reheating.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with your favorite plant-based protein or beans for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I spice up my Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet?

Feel free to add your favorite spices or hot sauce to enhance the flavor! You can also throw in some black beans or corn for added texture.

What are some good sides for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet?

Serve it with fresh salad, avocado slices, or tortilla chips on the side to complement this flavorful dish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet! It’s not just easy and quick but also packed with vibrant flavors that will surely please your taste buds. Enjoy every bite as you gather around the table with family or friends. Happy cooking!