Smoky Chipotle Bbq Chicken And Rice Skillet

Craving a meal with bold flavors and a little heat? Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet is here to spice up your dinner!

This dish combines smoky chipotle, tender BBQ chicken, and perfectly cooked rice, all in one skillet for a comforting, easy meal with a kick.

Picture juicy chicken coated in smoky chipotle BBQ sauce, paired with fluffy rice that soaks up all those amazing flavors in every bite.

Let’s get started on this simple, one-pan dish that’s bursting with smoky, spicy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The smoky chipotle BBQ sauce adds a bold, savory kick that pairs perfectly with tender, juicy chicken and fluffy rice.
• One-Pan Meal: No need for multiple pots and pans. Everything cooks in one skillet, making clean-up a breeze!
• Quick and Easy: With just a 5-minute prep time, this dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Great for Meal Prep: This recipe is ideal for making in advance. You can store leftovers and have a flavorful meal ready for the next day.
• Kid-Friendly: The smokiness is balanced with a slight sweetness from the BBQ sauce, making it a hit with the whole family.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings:

This recipe serves 4, making it great for family dinners or for leftovers.

Difficulty:

Easy. This recipe is beginner-friendly and a fun challenge for experienced cooks.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet or sauté pan (with a lid)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Knife for chopping
• Cutting board

Ingredients for Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious one-pan meal:

• Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables, adding a rich flavor.
• Chicken Breasts (diced): Tender and juicy chicken, which is the star of the dish.
• Long-Grain Rice: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the rice and enhances the flavor.

For the Sauce & Seasoning:

• BBQ Sauce: Adds the tangy, smoky base flavor.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo (minced): Adds a smoky heat that gives the dish its signature chipotle kick.
• Smoked Paprika: Elevates the smokiness and adds color.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: For savory depth.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Corn (optional): Adds sweetness and texture to balance the smokiness.
• Black Beans (optional): For added protein and heartiness.

For the Topping:

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts over the dish for a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Chopped Cilantro (optional): Adds freshness and color to garnish.

Variations for Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice

• Add Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Swap for Ground Meat: Use ground chicken or turkey instead of diced chicken breasts for a different texture.
• Make It Spicy: Add extra chipotle peppers or a few dashes of hot sauce to increase the heat.
• Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese for a milder, gooier topping.
• Add Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the finished dish for a zesty contrast to the smoky flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice

1. Prepare the Chicken and Rice

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned on all sides—about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Cook the Rice

In the same skillet, add the rice and cook it for about 1 minute to toast it lightly. This will bring out the nutty flavor of the rice and help it soak up the sauce better. Then, add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

3. Combine Chicken, Sauce, and Rice

Once the rice is cooked, add the chicken back into the skillet. Stir in the BBQ sauce and minced chipotle peppers. Make sure the chicken is well-coated in the sauce and that everything is evenly mixed. Continue cooking over low heat for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. You can add a bit more chicken broth or water if the mixture seems too dry.

4. Add the Optional Add-Ins

If you’re using optional add-ins like corn or black beans, add them to the skillet now and stir everything together. Let it cook for a few more minutes, just until everything is heated through. This step adds texture and additional flavors that complement the smokiness of the BBQ sauce.

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5. Top with Cheese and Cilantro

Once everything is well combined and heated, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired.

How to Serve Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet

This Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs well with a few sides for a more well-rounded dinner:

• With a Side Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance the rich flavors of the dish.
• With Garlic Bread: For a comforting touch, serve it with some warm garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
• With Avocado: For a creamy contrast, top the skillet with sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream.

Storing and Reheating Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice

• Storing Leftovers: Let the skillet cool before transferring any leftovers to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the dish in the skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the rice from drying out. You can also microwave individual servings, adding a little moisture if needed.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Give the chicken and rice space to cook evenly by using a large enough skillet.
• Adjust the Heat: If you like your dish spicier, add extra chipotle peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers.
• Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy reheating during the week.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	450
Protein	35g
Carbs	50g
Fat	12g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	8g

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with brown rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and additional liquid. Check the package instructions for brown rice and adjust accordingly.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with ground turkey, pork, or beef. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is cooked through.

Conclusion

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, smoky chipotle BBQ sauce, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for meal prepping! Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for a tasty dinner for yourself, this dish has got you covered.