Need a quick, hearty, and family-friendly dinner idea? This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is the perfect one-pan meal! It’s loaded with juicy chicken, fluffy rice, melty cheese, and bold taco flavor—all simmered together in just 30 minutes. No need for extra dishes or complicated steps—just simple, satisfying comfort food made easy.
Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving Mexican-inspired flavors without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet
- ✅ One-pan recipe = minimal cleanup
- ✅ Bold taco flavors everyone loves
- ✅ Budget-friendly ingredients
- ✅ Customizable and meal prep approved
- ✅ Ready in 30 minutes or less
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2¼ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
- 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, cilantro, jalapeños, lime
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until no longer pink (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Veggies
In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper until soft, about 3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Seasoning and Rice
Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir in taco seasoning, uncooked rice, chicken broth, corn, and beans. Mix well.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish
Remove lid, sprinkle with cheese, and cover again for 2–3 minutes until melted. Top with your favorite garnishes and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- 🍗 Use rotisserie chicken to save time
- 🌶️ Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat
- 🧄 Stir in minced garlic or taco salsa for depth
- 🍚 Substitute brown rice (adjust liquid & cook time accordingly)
Flavor Variations
- 🧀 Cheesy Fiesta Skillet – Add cream cheese or queso for extra richness
- 🌽 Tex-Mex Style – Add tomatoes, green chiles, or salsa
- 🥬 Low-carb option – Use cauliflower rice and reduce liquid
- 🌮 Wrap it up – Use as a taco or burrito filling
Perfect For:
- 🏡 Quick weeknight dinners
- 🧊 Meal prep and leftovers
- 🎉 Casual family gatherings
- 🌮 Taco Tuesday twist
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is bold, cheesy, and totally comforting. With just one pan and easy ingredients, you get a flavorful, filling meal that the whole family will devour. Customize it, top it your way, and enjoy it all week long!