If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s bursting with bold flavors and gooey melted cheese, then this Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet Recipe is made just for you. Imagine juicy, seasoned chicken mingling with tender rice, vibrant beans, sweet corn, and zesty diced tomatoes with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, all topped with a sumptuous blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. It’s one-pan magic that brings the best of Mexican-American flavors straight to your table in less than 40 minutes, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making this dish is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create an explosion of flavor, texture, and color. Every component plays a crucial role, from the spiced chicken to the creamy cheeses, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a subtle fruity base for sautéing the chicken to juicy perfection.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: The hearty protein star that soaks up all the taco seasoning goodness.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Brings that classic Mexican spice profile, making the chicken pop with flavor.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Adds satisfying texture and absorbs all the delicious cooking liquids.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist while infusing gentle savory notes.
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein and a creamy texture to balance the dish.
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained: Brings a burst of natural sweetness and bright color.
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies: Adds subtle heat and juicy bites that elevate every mouthful.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides that sharp, classic cheesiness that melts perfectly on top.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Offers a mild, buttery meltiness that complements the cheddar flawlessly.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Injects a fresh, citrusy brightness that lifts the whole skillet.
- 1 avocado, sliced: Adds creamy richness that cools the spices and rounds out each serving.
- Sour cream and lime wedges for serving: Perfect finishing touches that add tang and freshness to every bite.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add those bite-sized chicken pieces. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides. This step locks in the juiciness and forms a beautiful base for the flavors to build upon.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned chicken and stir everything together so each piece is lovingly coated with that vibrant blend of spices. The aroma at this point alone will have you feeling excited for the next steps.
Step 3: Add the Rice and Veggies
Next, add the rice, chicken broth, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies directly to the skillet. Give everything a good stir to combine all those flavors and textures well. This mixture is what makes this dish a complete, filling one-pan wonder.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring your skillet mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and it’s absorbed all those delicious liquids. This is when all the ingredients come together into a harmonious, hearty blend.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Remove the lid and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top of the skillet. Cover it back up and let the cheese melt for about 2 minutes. The creamy, gooey layer of cheese on top is what makes this Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, slices of creamy avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of tangy lime wedges before serving. These finishing touches take the dish from great to unforgettable.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro adds a refreshing herbal note while avocado slices bring a silky texture that balances the spice. Sour cream is the perfect cooling dollop, and a squeeze of lime adds an irresistible zing. These garnishes elevate every bite and add a pop of color to your plate.
Side Dishes
This skillet is a full meal on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides such as a crisp green salad or some warm, fluffy tortilla chips. A side of Spanish rice or a light corn and tomato salad can also complement the dish without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style right from the skillet to keep it warm and cozy. For a fun twist, spoon it into warm tortillas for burrito wraps, or scoop it onto baked potatoes or even nachos. Its versatility will impress your guests and keep everyone excited for dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the skillet to cool completely, then transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, this Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet Recipe stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating gently.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through and the cheese is delightfully melty again.
FAQs
Can I substitute brown rice for white rice in this recipe?
Absolutely! Using brown rice is a great way to add more fiber and nutrients. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 15 minutes and possibly add a bit more chicken broth to ensure it cooks through fully.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a gentle kick from the taco seasoning and the diced tomatoes with green chilies, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. If you prefer more heat, you can easily add sliced jalapeños or use hot diced tomatoes for an extra fiery flair.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Definitely. While cheddar and Monterey Jack provide the perfect melt and flavor combo, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for some spice, or mozzarella for a super gooey texture.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! This Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet Recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use a gluten-free taco seasoning and canned ingredients that don’t contain gluten additives. It’s a safe and satisfying option for those avoiding gluten.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with extra beans, or using plant-based protein alternatives like seasoned tofu or tempeh. Adjust the seasoning as needed, and you’ll have a delicious meat-free meal.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet Recipe is one of those gems that feels like a warm hug on a plate, offering rich flavors, comforting textures, and effortless cooking all in one skillet. I encourage you to try it out and make it your own—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this dish is sure to bring a smile to your table and keep everyone coming back for more.
Print
Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet is a flavorful, all-in-one Mexican-American dish featuring tender chicken, seasoned rice, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Topped with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, and lime wedges, it’s a comforting and easy skillet meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Protein and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 packet taco seasoning
Rice and Vegetables
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
Cheese and Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Sour cream, for serving
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked chicken and stir well to coat all pieces evenly with the seasoning.
- Add Rice and Vegetables: To the skillet, add the rice, chicken broth, drained black beans, drained corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir everything together to combine thoroughly.
- Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Remove the lid and sprinkle both the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for about 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, and lime wedges. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy chicken burrito skillet.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice for white rice, but increase the cooking time by about 15 minutes and add extra broth as needed.
- For added spice, use hot diced tomatoes with green chilies or include sliced jalapeños in the skillet.
