Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice

Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice is my goto meal when I want a flavorful, comforting dinner that comes together quickly and with minimal cleanup. It combines tender seasoned chicken, fluffy rice cooked right in the skillet, and melted Colby Jack cheese for a dish that feels both satisfying and easy.

I first made this after a hectic day and it quickly became a family favorite because everyone loves the blend of spices and creamy cheese in every bite.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: cut into cubes lets the spices cling to every piece and gives the rice plenty of savory protein Choose boneless skinless for fastest prep
• Olive oil: adds richness and helps the chicken brown beautifully Go for extra virgin if you can
• Salt and pepper: brings out the natural flavors I always freshly grind my pepper for a little extra kick
• Chili powder: gives the dish its Tex Mex heart Choose a mild or spicy blend based on your heat preference
• Cumin and dried cilantro: add earthiness and a classic taco flavor Hunt down whole cumin if possible and grind fresh for best taste
• Minced garlic: boosts the savory base Use fresh cloves for vibrant flavor or the jarred type when you need quick ease
• Rotel (not drained): the tomatoes and chilies add tang heat and just enough liquid to cook the rice Look for Rotel with green chilies for more zip
• Tomato sauce: gives a smooth tangy depth Use good quality canned or homemade sauce for rich taste
• Chicken broth: flavors the rice from the inside out I always choose low sodium so I can control the salt
• Long grain white rice: uncooked and rinsed so it cooks up fluffy and separate Not sticky Pilaf style rice works too
• Shredded Colby Jack cheese: melts into gooey strings and pairs perfectly with the taco spices Use freshly shredded for best melt
• Sour cream: cools spicy bites A must for topping in my house
• Fresh cilantro: brightens the finished dish Look for bunches with crisp leaves and no yellowing
• Southwest Ranch sauce: adds creamy zip Use Buffalo Wild Wings brand or your favorite southwest ranch

Instructions

Sear the Chicken:

Place cubed chicken in a large skillet with olive oil over medium high heat Add salt pepper chili powder cumin and cilantro Cook for about five to eight minutes stirring often until the chicken pieces are golden and just cooked through This seasoning step lets the spices bloom in the hot oil making the whole kitchen smell amazing

Create the Rice Mixture:

Pour in the undrained Rotel tomato sauce minced garlic chicken broth and the uncooked rinsed rice Stir thoroughly to blend all ingredients Nestle everything so the rice is under the liquid which is key for even cooking

Simmer Until Tender:

Cover the skillet with a tight lid Reduce the heat to medium low Let the mixture simmer gently for about fifteen to twenty minutes Stir after ten minutes to prevent sticking Cook until the rice is tender and has soaked up most of the liquid

Add the Cheese:

Turn off the heat Uncover the skillet Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top Allow it to melt from the steam or pop the skillet under the broiler for two to three minutes for a bubbly golden finish It is impossible not to sneak a bite right at this step

Finish and Serve:

Top each serving with sour cream fresh cilantro and generous drizzles of Southwest Ranch sauce Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for scooping I love how every bite gets a little cheese sauce and spice

I am always amazed by the freshness cilantro brings at the end and my daughter loves sprinkling it over every plate. She calls it our family confetti

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it from drying out. This dish freezes well just thaw overnight in the fridge and heat as needed

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out chicken breast for boneless thighs if you want extra juicy pieces. You can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor just add about ten minutes to the cook time. No Rotel on hand Use diced tomatoes plus a tablespoon of green chilies and a squeeze of lime

Serving Suggestions

This dish is complete on its own but is even better with tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas. Try adding avocado slices pickled jalapenos or black beans on the side. If I'm serving a crowd I keep sour cream and hot sauces on the table so everyone can build their perfect bowl

This quick one skillet Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice makes weeknight dinners easy and delicious. Leftovers reheat well and keep their flavor.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ What cheese can substitute Colby Jack?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a melty cheese blend can be used as substitutes for a similar creamy texture and taste.

→ Is rinsing rice necessary before cooking?

Rinsing removes excess starch, helping the rice cook fluffy and preventing it from becoming sticky.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made in advance and gently reheated, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

→ What toppings pair well with this dish?

Sour cream, fresh cilantro, Southwest ranch sauce, avocado slices, and diced tomatoes add fresh and creamy contrasts.

→ How spicy is this dish?

Spice levels vary based on the chili powder and Rotel used; adjust according to your preference for mild or bold heat.