Description
This Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet is a flavorful, one-pan meal combining tender chicken, smoky chipotle peppers, tangy BBQ sauce, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that brings a smoky, spicy kick with a comforting cheesy finish, all ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
Aromatics and Sauce
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced (or more to taste)
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
Rice and Broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
Toppings (Optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and chipotle pepper along with 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce, and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Rice: Stir in the rinsed long-grain white rice. Toast the rice by cooking for 1-2 minutes in the skillet, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Simmer the Rice: Pour in the chicken broth and BBQ sauce, then add the ground cumin. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro if you like, then serve hot. Enjoy your smoky, spicy, and cheesy chipotle BBQ chicken and rice skillet!
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chipotle pepper and adobo sauce to control the spiciness level.
- For a healthier version, use brown rice, but increase the simmering time accordingly.
- Chicken thighs will yield juicier meat, while chicken breasts are leaner.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or sour cream when returning the chicken.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
