Welcome to a delicious and wholesome dish that brings the flavors of a classic taco into one comforting skillet meal. Our Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is not only gluten-free and dairy-free, but it’s packed with savory taco seasoning, juicy chicken thighs, and tender veggies. Whether you’re craving something satisfying for a weeknight dinner or looking for a gluten-free taco-inspired dish, this recipe will hit the spot!
Introduction
The Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with the simplicity of a one-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. With its taco-seasoned chicken thighs, flavorful veggies, and fluffy jasmine rice, this dish offers a great balance of protein, fiber, and nutrients. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
If you love Mexican-inspired dishes and easy skillet dinners, this recipe is a must-try. You’ll love how everything comes together in just one pan for easy cleanup!
Ingredients for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet
To create this delicious and healthy Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet, gather the following ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- For the Rice and Veggies:
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 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
- ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro leaves, plus more for garnish
- Optional For Serving:
- Guacamole
- Sour cream (omit to keep dairy-free)
- Corn tortilla chips
- Sliced jalapenos
Substitution Suggestions
- If you need to keep this dish vegan, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives.
- To enhance the flavor, you can use brown rice instead of jasmine rice, though it will require a longer cooking time.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by trimming excess fat from the chicken thighs and patting them dry. Season both sides with kosher salt and taco seasoning for that perfect taco flavor.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs in a single layer and sear for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked—it will finish cooking in the oven.
Step 2: Start the Veggies
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add your thinly sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Stir frequently, cooking for about 4 minutes until the veggies are tender and fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Next, add the rinsed jasmine rice to the skillet, along with salt and taco seasoning. Stir and cook the rice for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it and infuse it with the flavors of the veggies and spices.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth, lime zest, and lime juice. Stir everything together, and then return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to a preheated oven at 350℉. Bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, uncover the skillet and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 6: Serve
Once the dish is done baking, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with optional toppings like guacamole, jalapenos, or tortilla chips for extra crunch.
Helpful Tips for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet
- Use fresh lime juice for a more vibrant and zesty flavor.
- Make sure to toast the rice before adding liquids to bring out its nutty flavor.
- If you want a spicier version, add more taco seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- For an even heartier dish, add black beans or corn to the rice mixture before baking.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet
- Best skillet hacks: Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution and to lock in flavor.
- Chicken tip: Pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear and crispy edges.
- Cooking techniques: Make sure to simmer the liquids before baking to reduce the cooking time and allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet
This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet pairs well with a variety of side dishes:
- Corn tortilla chips with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping.
- A refreshing mango salsa or avocado salad to balance the savory flavors.
- For beverages, try serving with a light Mexican beer or a lime-infused sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.
Nutritional Information for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Vitamin C: 25% of daily value
This dish is not only rich in flavor but also packed with healthy proteins, fiber, and vitamins, making it a nutritious choice for a well-balanced meal.
Storage and Leftovers for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet
To store leftovers, simply transfer the skillet contents to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a serving in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 2-3 minutes, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the oven at 350℉.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts. Just note that chicken breasts may cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add extra taco seasoning, chopped jalapenos, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
- Can I use brown rice instead of white jasmine rice? Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time. You may need to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- What are some vegan alternatives for this dish? You can replace the chicken with tofu or a plant-based meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Related Recipes for Chicken and Rice Lovers
If you love this Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet, be sure to check out these delicious recipes from OptimalRecipes.com:
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this hearty Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet as much as we do! It’s an easy, gluten-free, and dairy-free meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Don’t forget to share your personal twists or variations of this recipe in the comments below.
Happy cooking!
Print
Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet – Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Meal
Description
Welcome to a delicious and wholesome dish that brings the flavors of a classic taco into one comforting skillet meal. Our Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is not only gluten-free and dairy-free, but it’s packed with savory taco seasoning, juicy chicken thighs, and tender veggies. Whether you’re craving something satisfying for a weeknight dinner or looking for a gluten-free taco-inspired dish, this recipe will hit the spot!
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- For the Rice and Veggies:
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 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
- ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro leaves, plus more for garnish
- Optional For Serving:
- Guacamole
- Sour cream (omit to keep dairy-free)
- Corn tortilla chips
- Sliced jalapenos
Substitution Suggestions
- If you need to keep this dish vegan, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives.
- To enhance the flavor, you can use brown rice instead of jasmine rice, though it will require a longer cooking time.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by trimming excess fat from the chicken thighs and patting them dry. Season both sides with kosher salt and taco seasoning for that perfect taco flavor.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs in a single layer and sear for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked—it will finish cooking in the oven.
Step 2: Start the Veggies
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add your thinly sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Stir frequently, cooking for about 4 minutes until the veggies are tender and fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Next, add the rinsed jasmine rice to the skillet, along with salt and taco seasoning. Stir and cook the rice for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it and infuse it with the flavors of the veggies and spices.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth, lime zest, and lime juice. Stir everything together, and then return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to a preheated oven at 350℉. Bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, uncover the skillet and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 6: Serve
Once the dish is done baking, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with optional toppings like guacamole, jalapenos, or tortilla chips for extra crunch.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use fresh lime juice for a more vibrant and zesty flavor.
- Make sure to toast the rice before adding liquids to bring out its nutty flavor.
- If you want a spicier version, add more taco seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- For an even heartier dish, add black beans or corn to the rice mixture before baking.
