When you need a fast and filling dinner that uses simple ingredients, this Chicken Taco Skillet is the answer. Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup easy while delivering bold Southwestern flavors. With protein, rice, beans, and cheese all in one dish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, budget meals, or feeding a hungry family.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion, finely diced | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 6 |
| Ground turkey or chicken | 1.5 pounds |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Chili powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salsa | 1 (15 oz) jar |
| Diced green chiles, drained | 1 (4 oz) can |
| Black beans, drained | 1 (15 oz) can |
| Frozen corn | 1 cup |
| Cooked rice | 2 cups |
| Monterey Jack cheese, shredded | 4 oz |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 4 oz |
| Fresh cilantro | Optional garnish |
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Fast chicken taco skillet made with seasoned ground chicken, rice, beans, salsa, and melted cheese. Easy one-pan dinner.
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
6 cloves garlic, minced
1.5 lb ground chicken or turkey
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 (15 oz) jar salsa
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained
1 cup frozen corn
2 cups cooked rice
4 oz Monterey Jack cheese
4 oz cheddar cheese
Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook onion in olive oil.
2. Add garlic and cook briefly.
3. Brown meat with seasonings.
4. Stir in salsa, chiles, beans, and corn.
5. Mix in rice.
6. Top with cheese and melt.
7. Garnish and serve.
Notes
Great for leftovers.
Use brown rice if preferred.
Adjust spice to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Step-by-Step Instructions and Helpful Tips
Step 1
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Helpful tip: Stir frequently to prevent browning.
Step 2
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Helpful tip: Garlic cooks quickly, so keep it moving.
Step 3
Add the ground turkey or chicken along with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking the meat into crumbles, until fully cooked.
Helpful tip: Evenly browning the meat builds strong flavor.
Step 4
Stir in the salsa, green chiles, black beans, and corn. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until everything is warmed through.
Helpful tip: Drain the beans well to avoid excess liquid.
Step 5
Add the cooked rice and mix until fully combined. Sprinkle the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top. Allow the cheese to melt, or place the skillet under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes if oven-safe. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Helpful tip: Broiling creates a lightly golden cheese topping.
Conclusion
This Fast Chicken Taco Skillet is the ultimate easy dinner for busy nights. It’s filling, flavorful, and made with pantry staples, making it a reliable go-to recipe for families who love taco-inspired meals without the fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?
Yes, ground beef or turkey both work well.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats beautifully for lunches.
Can I make it spicy?
Use spicy salsa or add extra chili powder.
What can I serve with it?
It’s great on its own or with a simple salad.