Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice: Easy and Delicious One-Pot Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and easy meal that will please even the pickiest eaters in your family? Look no further than Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice! This one-pan wonder has been a game-changer for me on hectic weeknights when I need a comforting dish that comes together quickly. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful taco seasonings, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly cooked rice is sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.

The beauty of Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and a single skillet, you can whip up a satisfying meal that will have your loved ones coming back for seconds. The first time I made this dish, I struggled with overcooking the rice, but once I mastered the timing, it became a foolproof recipe that never disappoints.

Whether you serve it with crunchy tortilla chips on the side or set up a DIY taco rice bar with various toppings, this versatile dish is a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize it by swapping the protein, experimenting with different cheeses, or adding extra ingredients like black beans or corn. Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice is not just a meal; it’s a flavorful experience that brings joy to the table and simplifies your busy days. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite in no time!

Quick Benefits

• Family-friendly meal that kids will love
• Easy one-pan cooking for less cleanup
• Versatile recipe with options for customization
• Great for meal prep and reheats well for leftovers

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice: Easy and Delicious One-Pot Recipe Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one pan, making meal prep and cleanup a breeze, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without the hassle of using multiple pots and pans.
• Kid-Friendly: A great way to please picky eaters, this cheesy chicken taco rice combines familiar taco flavors with rice, making it a hit with kids. It’s a fantastic compromise for children who love rice but are hesitant to try new dishes.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A friend-approved recipe that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. Your family and guests will love the flavorful and comforting combination of chicken, cheese, and taco seasonings in this dish.
• Foolproof Cooking: Follow the recipe instructions to ensure perfectly cooked rice every time. Trust the timing, resist the urge to lift the lid constantly, and enjoy evenly cooked rice with a delightful texture.
• Customizable and Versatile: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences. Swap chicken for ground beef, add black beans or corn for extra flavor and texture, or experiment with different cheeses to create a unique variation of this dish.
• Complete Taco Experience: Serve with tortilla chips on the side for a fun and interactive meal that mimics the experience of eating tacos. Set up a toppings bar with sour cream, fresh cilantro, and Southwest ranch dressing for a customizable dining experience.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare a batch of this cheesy chicken taco rice for leftovers that can be stored in the fridge for several days. Reheat easily in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist, making it ideal for meal prepping or enjoying as a satisfying lunch option.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice: Easy and Delicious One-Pot Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz can tomato sauce
• 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked and rinsed
• 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
• ½ teaspoon salt

Toppings and Garnish

• Tortilla chips for serving
• Sour cream
• Southwest ranch dressing
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice: Easy and Delicious One-Pot Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add cubed chicken, salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and dried cilantro. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until chicken is cooked through.

Step 2: Add Rice and Liquids

Combine minced garlic with undrained Rotel tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, and rinsed rice. Mix thoroughly to blend flavors.

Step 3: Simmer Until Rice is Done

Once the mixture has come to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Take the skillet off the heat and evenly sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese on top. Allow the cheese to melt from the residual heat or place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving hot with dollops of sour cream, fresh chopped cilantro, a drizzle of southwest ranch dressing, and tortilla chips on the side for scooping.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve prepared the Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days. The dish reheats nicely in the microwave, but you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating if it appears dry. For lunch portions, simply divide the leftovers into individual containers for easy reheating and serving.

To maintain the best quality and flavor of the dish, ensure it is properly cooled before storing. When reheating, cover the container with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture and prevent the rice from drying out. Feel free to customize the recipe with different protein options like ground beef or additional ingredients such as black beans, corn, or different cheeses to suit your preferences. Enjoy the convenience of having a satisfying meal ready to enjoy with minimal effort, and easily adjust the recipe to your liking for added variety.

Ingredient Substitutions

When making this Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice, there are several ingredient substitutions you can consider based on personal preferences or what you have on hand. If you prefer a different protein, you can swap the chicken for ground beef or even ground turkey for a variation in flavor. Adding black beans during the last few minutes of cooking can increase the dish’s protein content and add a nice textural element.

In terms of cheese, while the recipe calls for Colby Jack, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Mexican blend or pepper jack for a spicier kick. You can also mix different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. Additionally, if you’re looking to add some sweetness and color, consider tossing in some corn during the cooking process.

If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, you can replace the chicken with extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth can easily make this recipe vegetarian-friendly. Feel free to customize the toppings with fresh ingredients like avocado, salsa, or even pickled jalapeños for an added burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice, consider serving it in individual baked tortilla bowls. Simply press tortillas into muffin tins and bake until crispy. Fill each tortilla bowl with the chicken taco rice and top with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of Southwest ranch dressing for a fun and visually appealing twist.

For a festive party idea, create a DIY taco rice bar using this recipe as the base. Set out bowls of various toppings such as diced avocado, chopped tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and crunchy tortilla strips. Allow guests to build their own taco rice bowls, customizing them with their favorite toppings for a interactive and delicious dining experience.

FAQs for Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice: Easy and Delicious One-Pot Recipe

Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Colby Jack cheese, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Mexican blend or pepper jack for different flavors and levels of heat.

How long should I cook the rice for to ensure it’s not overcooked?

To avoid overcooking the rice, trust the timing provided in the recipe and resist the urge to lift the lid and check on it frequently. Check on the rice only once halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking and perfect results.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, leftovers of this cheesy chicken taco rice keep well in the fridge for several days. Simply reheat in the microwave, and if it seems dry, you can add a splash of broth before reheating. It’s also great for meal prep as it reheats easily, making it a convenient option for lunches.

What are some suggested variations to this recipe?

For a different flavor, you can substitute the chicken with ground beef or add black beans during the last few minutes of cooking for extra protein and fiber. You can also add corn for sweetness and color. Additionally, consider offering different toppings for customization or serving with tortilla chips on the side for a complete taco experience.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice is truly a lifesaver for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and filling meal that the whole family will love. The convenience of cooking everything in one pan not only saves time but also makes cleanup a breeze. It’s heartwarming to see how this recipe has brought joy to my friend’s family and become a staple in my own home.

Don’t be discouraged by any initial hiccups in preparing this Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice; practice makes perfect, and soon you’ll have it down to a science. Feel free to get creative with variations like using different proteins, cheeses, or add-ins to suit your taste preferences. The versatility of this dish makes it a great option for meal prep or serving a crowd with ease.

So next time you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction, remember to whip up a batch of Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice. Your taste buds—and your loved ones—will thank you for it!

Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice: Easy and Delicious One-Pot Recipe

“Deliciously simple Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice, a one-pan wonder that satisfies picky eaters and busy families, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.”

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Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings (6 generous servings)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz can tomato sauce
• 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked and rinsed
• 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
• ½ teaspoon salt

Toppings and Garnish

• Tortilla chips for serving
• Sour cream
• Southwest ranch dressing
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add cubed chicken, salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and dried cilantro. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until chicken is cooked through.
2. Add Rice and Liquids: Combine minced garlic with undrained Rotel tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, and rinsed rice. Mix thoroughly to blend flavors.
3. Simmer Until Rice is Done: Once the mixture has come to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Add the Cheese: Take the skillet off the heat and evenly sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese on top. Allow the cheese to melt from the residual heat or place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
5. Garnish and Serve: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving hot with dollops of sour cream, fresh chopped cilantro, a drizzle of southwest ranch dressing, and tortilla chips on the side for scooping.