Flavorful Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe in One Pan

Name: Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade equivalent); 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Recipe By:

Melisa Egan

Posted:

October 25, 2025

Updated:

October 25, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a fiesta of flavor in one pan! Imagine the savory aroma of seasoned chicken dancing through your kitchen, mingling with the delightful scent of spices and fresh ingredients. The sight of colorful veggies and fluffy rice coming together in perfect harmony will have your taste buds tingling with anticipation.

This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is ideal for those busy weeknights when you want to impress without the stress. Just one bite will transport you to a sunny taco stand, where every ingredient sings in chorus. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a spontaneous gathering with friends, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe is easy to whip up in under 30 minutes.
The vibrant flavors make it a showstopper at any dinner table.
It’s customizable, so feel free to add any leftover veggies lurking in your fridge.
Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

I still remember the first time I made this dish; my kids’ eyes lit up like Christmas morning when they took their first bites!

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for tender pieces; adjust based on your hungry crowd.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm garlic cloves; they impart the richest flavor when sautéed just right.
Bell Peppers: Pick vibrant colors like red and yellow for visual appeal and sweetness that balances the spices.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; use yellow onions for a milder flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Rice: Long-grain white rice absorbs flavors perfectly; ensure you rinse it beforehand for fluffier results.
Taco Seasoning: Homemade or store-bought, this spice mix brings that classic taco flavor straight to your skillet.
Canned Tomatoes: Chopped tomatoes add moisture and tanginess; opt for fire-roasted varieties for an extra kick.
Chicken Broth: Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness while enriching the overall flavor of the dish.
Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds brightness at the end; chop some for garnishing if you’re feeling adventurous!

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

Recipe preparation for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe

How to Make Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients before starting. Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces and dice onion, bell peppers, and garlic for quick cooking.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in diced onions and bell peppers until they soften and smell heavenly.

Add the Chicken: Stir in chicken pieces seasoned with salt and taco seasoning. Sauté until chicken is browned on all sides, approximately 6-8 minutes.

Incorporate Rice and Tomatoes: Add rinsed rice along with canned tomatoes (and their juices) into the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.

Pour in Broth: Carefully add chicken broth to your mixture. Bring it to a gentle simmer; cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat.

Cook Until Done: Allow everything to cook for about 20 minutes until rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Now that you’ve conquered this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe, gather around the table! Enjoy sharing stories as laughter fills your home while savoring each delightful bite of this easy-to-make meal.

Content:

Tip 1: Always let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor. I once forgot this step, and it tasted like cardboard.

Tip 2: Use a non-stick skillet to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking. My first attempt ended up as a burnt mess because I ignored this.

Tip 3: Fresh herbs brighten the dish; consider adding cilantro right before serving. Trust me, my friends always ask for extra after trying it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the chicken in a skillet. Once cooked, add rice and broth, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while everything simmers together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out spices or add beans for texture. This recipe is forgiving, so get creative with what you’ve got in your pantry!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat on the stovetop to keep it moist and delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To prevent soggy rice, make sure you use long-grain varieties that cook evenly.
Adding lime juice before serving can also brighten the dish tremendously.
Experimenting with different toppings like avocado or jalapeños creates delightful variations!

I remember hosting a taco night where this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet stole the show! Everyone raved about it, asking for seconds—and I ended up sharing my “secret” recipe!

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How spicy is this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe?

The spice level depends on your choice of seasoning; it’s easily adjustable!

What can I serve with this dish?

Consider serving with fresh salsa or a side salad for a refreshing contrast!

0 Shares