Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet – Easy, Cheesy & Family-Friendly

Hey friend! If you love quick, one-pan meals that make everyone at the table happy (and save you from a sink full of dishes), this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is going to be your new weeknight favorite. 🌮🍗 It’s hearty, full of bold Mexican-inspired flavors, and loaded with melted cheese — the kind of comforting, family-approved dinner you can throw together in under 30 minutes. I’ve made this so many times for busy evenings, and every single time, it disappears fast!

Imagine tender bites of chicken, fluffy rice, creamy melted cheese, and that irresistible taco seasoning aroma filling your kitchen. The best part? It’s all cooked in one skillet, so cleanup is as easy as the cooking itself. Let’s get your skillet sizzling!

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is comfort food that still packs a balanced punch. Chicken gives you lean protein to keep you full and energized, while rice provides satisfying carbs for long-lasting energy. Add in black beans and corn, and you’re sneaking in extra fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants without even trying. You can lighten it up by using brown rice, low-sodium broth, and part-skim cheese — all the flavor, none of the guilt. Plus, that mix of spices like cumin, chili, and garlic not only tastes amazing but brings anti-inflammatory benefits too. 🌶️💪

Adaptable Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for black beans, pinto beans, or tofu — it still tastes incredible with all the taco spices.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle powder, or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Mix in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or salsa con queso for a creamy, indulgent flavor.
• Healthy Upgrade: Use brown rice or cauliflower rice to boost fiber or cut carbs while keeping that taco flavor.
• Kid-Friendly: Tone down the chili powder and serve with sour cream or avocado slices for a mild, creamy balance.

The Recipe: Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet

Ingredients (Serves 4–5)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 450 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 (10 oz / 280 g) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• Fresh cilantro, sour cream, lime wedges, and avocado for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for about 5–6 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly translucent.
3. Add rice & seasonings: Stir in the uncooked rice, taco seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika. Toast for about 1 minute to bring out the flavors.
4. Simmer: Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Stir well to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Cook the rice: Cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let cook for 18–20 minutes (or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed). Stir once or twice to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.
6. Add chicken back: Once the rice is done, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine everything and heat through for 2–3 minutes.
7. Cheese time! Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again for 2–3 minutes until melted and gooey.
8. Garnish & serve: Top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, or a squeeze of lime for brightness. Serve straight from the skillet and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!

Practical & Valuable Tips

• Use pre-cooked rice: Got leftover rice? Reduce broth to 1 cup and simmer just long enough to warm everything through. Dinner in 15 minutes!
• Batch-friendly: Double the recipe in a large skillet or Dutch oven — perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
• Customize the toppings: Set up a “taco bar” with bowls of toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips, or salsa. Everyone can build their own plate.
• Creamier texture: Stir in 2 tablespoons of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream before adding the cheese for a creamier finish.
• Prevent mushy rice: Keep the heat low while simmering and avoid lifting the lid too often — steam does the magic!

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better overnight!
• Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual servings in 30-second intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken? Absolutely! Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken near the end, just to warm it through. It’s a great time-saver.
2. What rice works best? Long-grain white rice cooks evenly without clumping. If using brown rice, increase broth by 1/2 cup and extend cooking time by 10–12 minutes.
3. Can I make this in an Instant Pot? Yes! Sauté the chicken and aromatics first, then add all ingredients except cheese. Pressure cook on HIGH for 8 minutes, natural release 10 minutes, then stir in cheese.
4. How spicy is it? It’s mild to medium as written, depending on your taco seasoning. Adjust by adding or reducing chili powder or hot sauce.

Serving Ideas & Flavor Boosts

• Crunchy topping: Crumble tortilla chips on top for texture — it’s fun and kid-approved!
• Extra veggies: Stir in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritional boost.
• Make it a wrap: Spoon the skillet mixture into flour tortillas, add lettuce and sour cream — instant burrito wraps!

Call to Action

Did this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet make it to your family’s dinner rotation? 🌮💛 I’d love to see your version! Tag me on Pinterest and save it to your Easy Weeknight Meals board so you can whip it up again anytime you need a crowd-pleasing, one-pan wonder. Whether you keep it mild or go bold with spice, this cheesy taco skillet will never disappoint!