If you’re searching for a comforting, easy, and delicious meal that can be made in one skillet, look no further than this One Skillet Cheesy Salsa Chicken Rice Bake. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, and it combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a cheesy, zesty flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, you’ll want to add this recipe to your regular rotation.

Why I Love This Recipe

The beauty of the One Skillet Cheesy Salsa Chicken Rice Bake lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Not only is it a one-pan wonder, but it also packs a punch of flavor with the help of vibrant ingredients like salsa and peppers. It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients you may have lying around, and it caters to a variety of tastes. Plus, the gooey melted cheese on top? Pure heaven!

Ingredient List

To create this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

1 yellow onion, chopped
1 pound chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup dry broken spaghetti or angel hair pasta
1 cup long grain rice
1/2 cup chunky red salsa
2 tablespoons chopped pepperoncini
1 can (14 ounce) black beans, drained
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1/2 cup shredded pepper jack or spicy cheddar
Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Chopped scallions, for garnish
Cubed or sliced avocado, for serving
Lots of fresh limes, for serving

Hardware & Gadgets

In order to whip up this delicious One Skillet Cheesy Salsa Chicken Rice Bake, you will need the following kitchen tools:

Large skillet: A deep skillet is ideal for this recipe to hold all the ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring everything together.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure you get the right proportions of each ingredient.
Cutting board and knife: For prepping your veggies and chicken.

Directions: One Skillet Cheesy Salsa Chicken Rice Bake.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the chopped red bell pepper and continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the chicken chunks. Sprinkle with dried oregano, chipotle chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Add the Pasta and Rice

Once the chicken is fully cooked, stir in the broken spaghetti or angel hair pasta, long grain rice, and chunky red salsa. Mix everything well, ensuring the pasta and rice are coated in the salsa and combined with the chicken and veggies.

Step 4: Add the Beans and Liquid

Add the drained black beans to the skillet. Pour in 3 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth (for extra flavor). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice and pasta are cooked and have absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Cheese It Up

Once the rice and pasta are tender, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese and pepper jack or spicy cheddar on top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become gooey.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your One Skillet Cheesy Salsa Chicken Rice Bake with freshly chopped cilantro, scallions, and slices of avocado. Serve with plenty of fresh lime wedges for squeezing on top for that extra burst of flavor!

Variations for Dietary Needs

If you need to adapt this recipe for specific dietary needs, consider the following options:

Gluten-free: Substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta and ensure the rice is gluten-free.
Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with extra veggies or tofu and add more beans for protein.
Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip the cheese altogether for a lighter version.
Spicy: If you love heat, add more chipotle chili powder or throw in some jalapeños for an extra kick!

Testing Timeline

Whether you’re prepping for a meal or testing out this One Skillet Cheesy Salsa Chicken Rice Bake, here’s a timeline to follow:

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you want to make this dish in advance, it’s freezer-friendly! Here’s how to do it:

You can freeze the One Skillet Cheesy Salsa Chicken Rice Bake before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, prepare the dish up to the point of adding the liquid, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the cooking instructions. If freezing after cooking, let it cool completely before portioning it into airtight containers. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Ask the Chef

Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any type of beans you have on hand, such as pinto beans or kidney beans. They will all work beautifully in this dish.

What can I serve with this dish?

This One Skillet Cheesy Salsa Chicken Rice Bake is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or some tortilla chips for crunch!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for best results.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prep this dish the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort.

Weekend Projects

If you enjoyed making the One Skillet Cheesy Salsa Chicken Rice Bake, you might also love these weekend cooking projects:

Let’s Eat

Now that you’ve crafted this delectable One Skillet Cheesy Salsa Chicken Rice Bake, it’s time to dig in! Gather your loved ones around the table, squeeze some fresh lime over your plate, and enjoy. This dish is sure to be a hit, and you’ll love how easy it is to prepare and clean up afterward. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this meal, and don’t forget to share your experience!

This One Skillet Cheesy Salsa Chicken Rice Bake is not just a recipe; it’s a way to create memories in the kitchen and at the dinner table. So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking!