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Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Skillet

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This skillet combines tender chicken breast with smoky chipotle and BBQ flavors, simmered alongside creamy, cheesy rice. Cooking everything in one pan allows the rice to soak up the smoky, tangy sauce and spices, creating a deeply satisfying base for the juicy chicken. Optional corn and black beans add texture and heartiness, while melted cheddar tops the dish with a luscious finish. Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish balances bold spice with comforting richness, perfect for quick family dinners or meal prepping.

Simple techniques include toasting the rice for enhanced flavor, careful simmering to ensure perfect tenderness, and finishing with fresh cilantro for a bright touch. Adjust spice levels or swap ingredients like chicken thighs or different cheeses to suit your taste. Best enjoyed with fresh or mild sides to complement its smoky and cheesy notes.

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Published By Evelyn
Updated as of Tue, 17 Feb 2026 14:59:46 GMT
A skillet of rice and chicken with a smoky chipotle BBQ sauce. Bookmark
A skillet of rice and chicken with a smoky chipotle BBQ sauce. | foodbymary.com

This Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet brings together bold flavors and comforting textures in one easy meal. Tender chicken simmers in a smoky chipotle BBQ sauce while the rice cooks right in the pan, soaking up every bit of spice and richness. Finished with melted cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but satisfying.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breast (diced): offers lean protein that cooks quickly.
  • Olive oil: helps brown the chicken and build flavor.
  • Long-grain rice: stays fluffy while soaking up the sauce.
  • Chicken broth: adds a rich base to the dish.
  • BBQ sauce: brings smoky tang with a hint of sweetness.
  • Minced chipotle peppers in adobo: add deep smoky heat that defines the recipe.
  • Smoked paprika: deepens the smoky notes.
  • Salt and pepper: balance the flavors.
  • Optional corn: adds natural sweetness and texture.
  • Black beans: provide heartiness and extra protein.
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: melts into a creamy topping.
  • Fresh cilantro: brightens with color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season diced chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside to keep it juicy.
Toast the Rice and Add Liquids:
In the same skillet, add long-grain rice. Toast it for 1 to 2 minutes while stirring frequently to bring out a nutty flavor. Add chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and minced chipotle peppers. Stir everything together and bring to a boil before lowering the heat.
Simmer Until Rice is Tender:
Cover the skillet and let the rice simmer gently on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The rice absorbs most of the liquid and becomes tender and flavorful.
Add Chicken and Optional Ingredients:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with optional corn and black beans if using. Stir to combine and warm through for 2 to 3 minutes.
Melt the Cheese and Serve:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and let the cheese melt gently for 2 to 3 minutes. Add chopped cilantro for a fresh finish if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the bold flavors.
A skillet full of rice, chicken, and sauce. Bookmark
A skillet full of rice, chicken, and sauce. | foodbymary.com

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Before reheating, stir to redistribute the sauce and cheese. Avoid freezing if possible because the cheese and rice texture can become grainy. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist or use short intervals in the microwave stirring in between.

Ingredient substitutions

Chicken thighs work great too if you want juicier meat. Brown rice can be used but requires extra cooking time and liquid. Pepper Jack cheese can replace cheddar for a bit more spice. For a vegetarian version omit chicken and add extra black beans or mushrooms. If BBQ sauce is not available regular tomato sauce with a smoky seasoning mix can stand in.

Serving suggestions

Serve with cornbread or Mexican street corn salad to add a sweet counterpoint. Avocado slices or guacamole help balance the heat with creamy coolness. Sautéed peppers and onions bring a layer of natural sweetness. Serve with crispy tortilla chips for crunch and texture contrast.

Cultural context

This recipe draws from popular Mexican and Tex-Mex flavors especially smoky chipotle peppers and BBQ sauce which is a southern American staple. The melding of chicken, rice, beans, and cheese reflects a tradition of hearty comfort foods that feed families and bring warmth on busy days.

Pro Tips

Remember to toast the rice before adding liquids for extra depth of flavor. Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it moist by removing it once browned and reheating later. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chipotle peppers. Start smaller if unsure because the heat sneaks up on you easily.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use other types of rice?

Yes, jasmine or basmati rice can be used but may cook faster. Brown rice works too but requires more liquid and extra cooking time.

→ How do I adjust the spice level?

Add more chipotle peppers or cayenne for heat, or reduce the amount for a milder flavor. Using milder BBQ sauce also softens the spice.

→ Is chicken thigh a good alternative?

Definitely. Thighs offer a juicier, richer texture and hold up well to the bold flavors in the skillet.

→ What can I do if the rice is undercooked?

Add extra broth, cover, and cook a few minutes longer, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

→ How do I prevent rice from sticking?

Stir the rice occasionally during simmering and use a nonstick or well-seasoned pan for best results.

→ Can I add other proteins or vegetables?

Yes, options like shrimp, ground beef, sautéed mushrooms, or extra beans can enhance texture and flavor.

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken

One-pan dish with smoky chipotle, tender chicken, and cheesy rice for an easy, flavorful meal.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
20 minutes
Complete Time
30 minutes
Published By: Evelyn

Recipe Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Total Portions: 4 Serves How Many (4 servings)

Dietary Preferences: ~

Required Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 450 g chicken breast, diced
02 15 ml olive oil
03 185 g long-grain rice
04 480 ml chicken broth

→ Sauce and Seasoning

05 120 ml BBQ sauce
06 30 ml chipotle peppers in adobo, minced
07 5 ml smoked paprika
08 Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Optional Add-Ins

09 120 ml corn
10 120 ml black beans

→ Topping

11 115 g shredded cheddar cheese
12 Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season diced chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 02

In the same skillet, add rice and toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and minced chipotle peppers. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Step 03

Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice absorbs most liquid and becomes tender.

Step 04

Add cooked chicken, corn, and black beans (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through for 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 05

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover and let cheese melt for 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired before serving warm.

Handy Cooking Tips

  1. Use long-grain white rice for optimal texture; brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking time.
  2. Avoid overcooking chicken to maintain juiciness; remove it once browned and return to skillet later.
  3. Adjust spice level by varying chipotle pepper quantity or adding cayenne pepper.
  4. Stir rice occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
  5. Add cheese at the end to prevent overcooking and maintain creamy texture.

Necessary Kitchen Tools

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Allergy Details

Always check ingredient packaging for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional when in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (cheddar cheese) and may contain soy in BBQ sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These nutrition details are for guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 580
  • Fat: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 55 grams
  • Proteins: 40 grams