If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful, and colorful weeknight meal, this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe is a true winner. It combines juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken thighs with vibrant bell peppers and fluffy jasmine rice all cooked together in one skillet for ease and maximum taste. The blend of zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and classic taco seasoning creates an irresistible dish that feels both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, this recipe will quickly become a go-to dinner that delights taste buds and warms the heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a white pan filled with sautéed sliced vegetables, showing two main layers: the bottom layer is made of thin, soft yellowish onion slices scattered across the pan, and the top layer features bright red and green bell pepper strips with a shiny, cooked texture. Some small bits of minced garlic or seasoning are sprinkled over the vegetables, adding tiny light brown and yellow specks. The pan rests on a white marbled surface, and no other objects are visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe so irresistible.

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender with good fat content, perfect for staying moist during cooking.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
2 tablespoons taco seasoning: Brings that signature southwestern spice and aroma.
3 tablespoons avocado oil: Great for searing thanks to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced: Offers a slightly bitter contrast to the red pepper’s sweetness.
1/2 yellow onion, peeled and thinly sliced: Provides natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Offers aromatic warmth to deepen flavor layers.
1 cup white jasmine rice, rinsed well and drained: Fluffy and fragrant, it absorbs the flavorful broth perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Ensures the rice is perfectly seasoned.
1 tablespoon taco seasoning: Infuses the rice with savory spice.
Zest of 1/2 lime: Adds a bright citrus note that lifts the whole dish.
2 tablespoons lime juice: Brings acidity and freshness to balance richness.
1½ cups chicken broth: Moistens the rice and infuses it with savory depth.
1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro leaves, plus more for garnish: Adds herbaceous brightness and a classic Mexican touch.
Guacamole (optional): Creamy and cooling contrast to the spices.
Sour cream (optional; omit to keep dairy-free): Offers tangy richness if desired.
Tortilla chips (optional): Provide fun crunch for serving.
Sliced jalapeno peppers (optional): Perfect for those who want an extra kick of heat.

How to Make Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉. This ensures it’s ready to finish the dish off perfectly after stovetop cooking. While the oven warms, trim any excess fat off your chicken thighs and dry them well so you get a beautiful sear.

Step 2: Season and Brown the Chicken

Season the chicken thoroughly with kosher salt and taco seasoning, making sure every bite will be full of flavor. Heat your avocado oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd, and cook until golden brown on each side, around 3 minutes per side. The chicken won’t be fully cooked through yet but will continue cooking in the oven. Remove the chicken temporarily and set it aside on a clean plate.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables and Rice

Lower the heat to medium, then toss in the thinly sliced red and green bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Stir frequently until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, about 4 minutes. Next, stir in the rinsed jasmine rice along with a pinch of salt and additional taco seasoning. Cook this mixture, stirring, until the rice smells fragrant and is lightly toasted – around 2 minutes. This step is key for developing that slightly nutty, complex flavor in the rice.

Step 4: Combine and Cook in Oven

Add the lime zest, freshly squeezed lime juice, chicken broth, and cilantro leaves into the skillet, stirring everything together. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer on the stove. Nestle the browned chicken pieces back into the skillet, covering them with the rice mixture. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or foil and carefully transfer it to your preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes covered, then uncover and continue baking another 7 to 9 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through. Fluff the rice gently with a fork after removing from the oven.

How to Serve Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe

A large white pot filled with a mix of cooked rice and thinly sliced red and green bell peppers forms the base layer; on top, 10 pieces of browned, seasoned chicken thighs are spread evenly, each with a slightly crispy texture. The rice is golden with visible herbs and bits of vegetables, and fresh green cilantro leaves are sprinkled over the whole dish. Surrounding the pot are small white bowls holding creamy guacamole with green herbs, sour cream, sliced green jalapeños on a white plate, and white corn chips. The whole setting is on a white marbled surface with scattered cilantro leaves and a clear blue glass of water nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This dish comes alive with the right toppings. A handful of fresh cilantro sprigs adds bright herbaceous notes, while sliced jalapenos bring a fresh, spicy bite. Dollops of creamy guacamole and sour cream are perfect for balancing the warm spices and add luscious texture. Don’t forget a handful of crunchy tortilla chips on the side for fun scooping.

Side Dishes

Because this skillet is so filling and packed with flavor, simple sides are best. A crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette complements the taco flavors wonderfully. For some extra veggies, roasted corn or black beans seasoned with cumin and lime make excellent companions. These sides keep the meal balanced and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

You can make this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe a hands-on experience: serve it family-style in the skillet with bowls of garnishes and sides, inviting everyone to build their own loaded tacos or “bowls” with spoonfuls of chicken and rice. Alternatively, use it as a filling for soft flour or corn tortillas to create your own taco creations that burst with flavor and love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover chicken and rice into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for an easy, delicious leftover meal that reheats beautifully without losing moisture or flavor.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well. Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the leftovers gently in a covered skillet over low-medium heat to prevent drying out, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed. You can also microwave with a damp paper towel covering the dish to maintain moisture and heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can swap chicken thighs for breasts if preferred. Just be mindful that breasts can dry out more easily, so reduce baking time slightly and check for doneness frequently to keep them juicy.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! The Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe contains no gluten ingredients as long as your taco seasoning is gluten-free. Always double-check seasoning labels if you are sensitive.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the optional sour cream garnish to keep it dairy-free. The dish itself is naturally free of dairy until you add toppings, so it’s easy to accommodate.

What can I substitute for jasmine rice?

You can use long-grain white rice or even basmati rice if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember that cooking times and liquid ratios might vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild to medium spicy thanks to the taco seasoning and optional jalapenos. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapenos or choosing a milder taco seasoning blend, making it family-friendly or more adventurous.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet Recipe is one of those dishes that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas and your heart with satisfying comfort. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight yet special enough to serve for guests. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and zesty rice all cooked together means every bite is packed with love and flavor. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll wonder how it became a family favorite so fast!