If you’re looking to add some zest to your dinner routine, look no further than this Spicy Chicken and Rice Skillet. It’s packed with bold flavors, tender chicken, and a comforting, cheesy finish—all made in one skillet for easy cleanup. This dish is perfect for a family night or for impressing guests with minimal fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spicy Chicken and Rice Skillet brings a fiesta of flavors straight to your kitchen. The seasoned chicken, spiced rice, and gooey cheddar cheese come together for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. Adding homemade pico de gallo on top takes the flavors to the next level with a fresh, tangy contrast that’s hard to resist.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a quick meal for yourself, this dish is a winner. It’s hearty, filling, and full of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Spicy Chicken and Rice Skillet:

Chicken tenderloin – Tender and juicy, diced for easy cooking.
Seasonings – Salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder, cumin, and dried cilantro add layers of spice and warmth.
Aromatics – Onion and garlic give the dish a fragrant, flavorful base.
Canned goods – Diced tomatoes with green chilies and tomato sauce provide depth and a little heat.
Chicken broth and rice – For that fluffy, flavorful rice base that absorbs all those wonderful spices.
Cheddar cheese – The gooey, melty finish that makes this dish irresistible.
Pico de gallo ingredients – Fresh tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and seasonings for a refreshing, zesty topping.

How to Make Spicy Chicken and Rice Skillet

Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning diced chicken tenderloin with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder, cumin, and dried cilantro. These spices pack a punch, setting the stage for a flavorful meal.
Cook the Chicken and Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the seasoned chicken along with diced onion and minced garlic until the chicken is fully cooked and the onions are soft and translucent.
Add the Rice and Liquid
Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Add the uncooked rice, mixing everything well so the flavors meld together. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the cooked mixture and allow it to melt. For a quicker melt or a bubbly top, you can place the skillet under the broiler for a minute or two.
Make the Pico de Gallo
While the skillet is simmering, make a simple pico de gallo by combining diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl. Add fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the spicy chicken and rice onto plates and top with fresh pico de gallo. Enjoy this meal as is or pair it with some tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.

Tips for Success

Control the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and omit the jalapeño from the pico de gallo.
Customize the Cheese: While cheddar is classic, try a blend of Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Double the Recipe: This dish scales well if you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Spicy Chicken and Rice Skillet is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a quick meal prep option. Not only is it flavorful, but it’s also incredibly easy to throw together in one pan, making it a go-to recipe when you’re craving something delicious without all the hassle.

So, next time you’re in the mood for a comforting, spicy meal, try this skillet recipe. The combination of tender chicken, seasoned rice, and melty cheese topped with fresh pico de gallo will have everyone reaching for seconds. Enjoy!

Spicy Chicken and Rice Skillet

Author: Alice

Print Recipe

Description

Transform your dinner into a fiesta with our Spicy Chicken and Rice Skillet. This dish is packed with bold flavors, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness, all in one comforting skillet meal. Perfect for family nights or impressing guests with minimal fuss!

Ingredients

– 1 lb of chicken tenderloin, diced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 10 oz can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
– 1 8 oz can of tomato sauce
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 small tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño, diced
– 1/2 bunch of cilantro, chopped
– 2 limes, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, season the diced chicken tenderloin with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder, cumin, and dried cilantro.
2. Add the onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the chicken is cooked through and the onions have softened.
3. Stir in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and tomato sauce. Pour in the chicken broth and add the uncooked rice to the skillet.
4. Mix everything well, cover with a lid, and simmer on medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.
5. Once cooked, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Allow the cheese to melt or place the skillet under the broiler for a quick melt.
6. For the pico de gallo, combine diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and chopped cilantro in a bowl. Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
7. Serve the spicy chicken and rice skillet hot, topped with fresh pico de gallo. Enjoy with tortilla chips if desired.

0 Shares