Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet

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The Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet is a bold, flavorful dish that brings together juicy chicken bites and smoky-sweet barbecue sauce over a bed of fluffy rice. This hearty one-pan meal is the kind of comfort food that pleases a crowd, whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weeknight or whipping up something satisfying for a casual dinner party. The chipotle adds a subtle heat and a deep, smoky essence that elevates the whole dish.

With every bite, you’ll experience tender pieces of seared chicken glazed in a rich BBQ sauce layered over perfectly cooked rice that soaks up all that savory goodness. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and requires minimal cleanup thanks to its skillet-style cooking. Whether served alone or paired with a side salad or roasted veggies, this meal is as convenient as it is crave-worthy.

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Ingredients for Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably chipotle flavored)
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from a can of chipotle peppers)
• 3 cups cooked brown rice (or white rice if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for brightness)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the cubed chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Toss the pieces well to ensure even coating. This seasoning mix brings out the natural flavor of the chicken while building the smoky flavor profile from the ground up.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through. You want a light sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.

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Step 3: Add the Chipotle BBQ Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the barbecue sauce and the tablespoon of adobo sauce. Stir to coat all the chicken pieces evenly in the thick, smoky sauce. Let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes, just until everything is heated through and the sauce slightly thickens.

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Step 4: Warm the Rice

If your rice is freshly cooked and hot, you can skip this step. Otherwise, you can microwave it or stir it into the skillet for a minute or two just to warm it up. Some people also prefer to sauté the rice briefly in a touch of oil or butter for added texture.

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Step 5: Assemble the Skillet

Spread the rice evenly in the skillet (if not already mixed in). Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture on top. Optional: Drizzle a little lime juice for brightness or sprinkle chopped cilantro for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Storage Instructions

To store leftovers of the Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 4 days.

For freezing, portion the chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot throughout. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce during reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: ~490
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 10g
• Sodium: ~750mg

Note: Values may vary depending on specific brands of BBQ sauce and rice used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add even more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take longer.

2. What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

Chipotle BBQ sauce is recommended for its smoky heat. However, any smoky or spicy BBQ sauce will work well with a splash of adobo sauce for that chipotle kick.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats wonderfully. Make it the night before and reheat gently on the stove or microwave when ready to serve.

4. Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat due to the chipotle and adobo sauce. To reduce spice, use regular BBQ sauce without chipotle or adobo.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely. Bell peppers, corn, or black beans can be sautéed with the chicken or stirred into the rice.

6. What sides go well with this meal?

A side salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli complement it nicely. You could also serve it with warm tortillas.

7. Can I use leftover rice?

Yes, day-old rice is perfect and even preferred for skillet dishes because it holds its texture better when reheated.

8. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free (many are not). All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

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