Description
This Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breast seared to perfection, simmered in a smoky chipotle barbecue sauce, and served over warm rice. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish balances smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors with a hint of brightness from lime juice and fresh cilantro garnish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Cooking and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably chipotle flavored)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from a can of chipotle peppers)
Rice and Garnish
- 3 cups cooked brown rice (or white rice if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, season the cubed chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated with the spices.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and cooked through.
- Simmer in BBQ Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low, then pour in the chipotle barbecue sauce and adobo sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly and let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Prepare the Rice: If the rice is not already warm, heat it separately, or stir it directly into the skillet with the chicken and sauce for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
- Assemble the Skillet: Spread the cooked rice evenly in the skillet and top it with the chipotle BBQ chicken mixture, creating a layered effect.
- Add Final Touches: Drizzle the lime juice over the top for a fresh brightness and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve Hot: Plate the chicken and rice skillet hot, making sure to scoop both chicken and rice for a balanced bite each serving.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of adobo sauce or substitute barbecue sauce without chipotle.
- Brown rice can be swapped with white rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- Ensure chicken pieces are bite-sized to cook quickly and evenly in the skillet.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain moisture and flavor.
