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Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet

  • Author: Sally Thompson
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Turn up the flavor on your weeknight meals with this Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet. This easy dinner recipe is a one-pan knockout packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich chipotle BBQ sauce that hits all the right notes—smoky, spicy, and just a little sweet. Whether you’re looking for quick meal ideas, hearty comfort food, or something fresh for your meal prep rotation, this dish checks all the boxes. The bold flavors make it unforgettable, while the simple cleanup makes it irresistible for busy cooks. It’s a go-to when you want something that feels indulgent but is easy to pull off.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken & Sauce:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
  • ¾ cup smoky BBQ sauce

For the Rice Base:

  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ tbsp butter or oil (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges
  • Shredded cheese

Instructions

  • Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with spices, and cook until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

  • Toast the Rice: In the same skillet, add butter or oil and toast the rice for 1–2 minutes.

  • Cook the Rice: Add broth, bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15–18 minutes until rice is tender.

  • Make the Sauce: In a separate pan (or bowl), toss cooked chicken with chipotle peppers and BBQ sauce. Heat through.

 

  • Assemble: Spoon BBQ chicken over the rice. Let it simmer together for a few minutes. Garnish and serve.