Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet

Looking for a one-pan dinner that packs a punch of flavor? Look no further than this Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet. This dish is smoky, savory, a little spicy, and oh-so-satisfying. Imagine juicy chicken cooked with a rich, tangy chipotle BBQ sauce, perfectly paired with fluffy rice that soaks up all those bold flavors. It’s the kind of meal you make when you want comfort food, but with a fun, smoky twist. And the best part? It’s all cooked in one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze!

The smoky chipotle BBQ sauce adds a deep, complex flavor that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this skillet dish is bound to be a hit. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll know you’ve struck flavor gold.

Why You’ll Love Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet

• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup super easy. Plus, it lets all those flavors meld together beautifully.
• Bold and Flavorful: The smoky chipotle BBQ sauce gives the chicken a deliciously complex flavor that balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce with a touch of heat.
• Hearty & Filling: The chicken and rice combination makes this dish hearty and filling, perfect for a satisfying meal.
• Quick & Easy: It’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it a great choice for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful but don’t want to spend hours cooking.
• Customizable: Love a little more heat? Add extra chipotle or a pinch of cayenne. Prefer a milder flavor? You can tone down the spice with a bit less chipotle.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet—simple ingredients, big flavors!

For the Chicken and Rice:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The protein of the dish, juicy and tender after cooking in that smoky sauce.
• Long-Grain White Rice: Fluffy rice that soaks up all the delicious chipotle BBQ sauce.
• Olive Oil: For searing the chicken and starting the cooking process.
• Chicken Broth: Adds richness to the rice and enhances the overall flavor.

For the Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce:

• Chipotle in Adobo Sauce: This smoky and spicy ingredient is the secret to the dish’s deep, bold flavor.
• BBQ Sauce: Your favorite bottle of BBQ sauce (I love a sweet and smoky variety for this recipe).
• Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the smoky heat.
• Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic powder brings in a nice savory depth.
• Onion Powder: For an extra savory punch that pairs beautifully with the BBQ sauce.
• Smoked Paprika: This enhances the smokiness and gives the dish a rich, deep flavor.
• Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy note that complements the chipotle and BBQ sauce perfectly.

For Garnishing (optional):

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: A pop of freshness to brighten up the dish.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze over the top for a burst of citrus that balances out the richness.
• Sour Cream: A creamy topping to cool down the heat, if you like it a little milder.

Instructions

Ready to get started? Follow these simple steps to make this Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts or thighs with a bit of salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the chipotle in adobo sauce (you can chop it up a bit for more even distribution) and let it cook for about 1 minute, letting the flavors release. Then, add the BBQ sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Stir everything together to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Add the long-grain rice to the skillet and stir to coat the rice in the BBQ sauce. Pour in the chicken broth, and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Rice

While the rice is cooking, slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Once the rice is done, add the chicken back into the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through and allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the smoky, savory, and spicy goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Note: These values are approximate and based on using standard ingredients.

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories

How to Serve Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet

This dish is hearty and flavorful enough on its own, but here are a few ideas for extra sides to complement it:

• Grilled Vegetables: A side of grilled veggies like corn on the cob, bell peppers, or zucchini would pair perfectly.
• Coleslaw: A cool, crunchy coleslaw balances the smoky richness of the dish.
• Tortillas: Warm tortillas on the side for scooping up that smoky rice and chicken.
• Avocado: Sliced avocado adds a creamy contrast to the spicy kick of the dish.

Additional Tips

• Extra Heat: If you love spice, add some diced jalapeños or extra chipotle peppers to the BBQ sauce for an added kick.
• Make it Veggie: If you’re vegetarian, swap the chicken for some sautéed mushrooms or even jackfruit for a meaty texture.
• Use Brown Rice: If you prefer brown rice, just be aware that it will take longer to cook—around 35-40 minutes.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking for the best texture. You can also cook frozen chicken directly in the skillet, but it may take a bit longer.

Q2: Can I use a different type of rice?
A2: Absolutely! You can use jasmine rice, basmati rice, or even quinoa. Just keep in mind that different rice types will require different cooking times, so adjust accordingly.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can prepare the chicken and rice in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Q4: How do I make this dish spicier?
A4: Add more chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick. You could also drizzle some hot sauce on top when serving.

Q5: Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
A5: Definitely! If you’re short on time, a store-bought BBQ sauce works just fine. Just make sure to choose one that’s smoky and rich for the best flavor.

Q6: Can I use bone-in chicken?
A6: Yes, you can! Just be sure to cook the chicken longer to ensure it’s fully cooked through. Once done, shred the meat and mix it into the rice.

Q7: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A7: Swap the chicken for a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, or even roasted vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms.

Q8: Can I freeze leftovers?
A8: Yes! This dish freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth.

Q9: Can I use a different kind of chili?
A9: Yes! You can use ancho chilies, chipotle powder, or even a smoked paprika-based chili blend for a slightly different flavor profile.

Q10: How do I reheat leftovers?
A10: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little extra chicken broth to loosen up the rice and sauce. It’ll be just as delicious the next day!

Conclusion

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet is the perfect dinner when you’re craving bold, smoky flavors and need a quick, one-pan meal. The combination of juicy chicken, smoky chipotle BBQ sauce, and fluffy rice is a total flavor bomb. It’s an easy and satisfying dish that’ll make your taste buds sing. Plus, with minimal cleanup, you’ll love how simple it is to whip up this hearty meal. So, grab your skillet and get ready for a delicious dinner that’s packed with flavor and a little kick!

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