If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, look no further than this One Skillet Saucy Chicken Tortilla Enchilada Rice Bake. It combines the best of enchiladas and rice in a single dish, making it an absolute favorite for busy weeknights. This recipe is not only simple to make but also delivers a vibrant explosion of tastes with every bite. With a blend of spices, protein, and cheesy goodness, this dish will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

This One Skillet Saucy Chicken Tortilla Enchilada Rice Bake is a game changer. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with delicious flavors. One of the best parts? It all comes together in just one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The combination of ground chicken (or beef or turkey), rice, and enchilada sauce creates a rich, savory base that pairs perfectly with crunchy tortilla chips and melty cheese. Plus, it’s customizable! You can adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Ingredient List

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 pound ground chicken, beef, or turkey
1 yellow onion, chopped
1-2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped (adjust to your taste)
2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 1/2 cups (19 ounces) red enchilada sauce
1 chipotle chili in adobo, chopped (optional)
1 cup dry long grain rice
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, plus more for serving
Juice of 1 lime
2 cups tortilla chips
1-2 cups shredded Mexican cheese
Sliced avocado and yogurt, for serving

Appliances & Accessories

Large Skillet: A deep skillet or sauté pan is ideal for this dish to accommodate all the ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir and combine ingredients seamlessly.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping veggies and preparing your ingredients.

Build One Skillet Saucy Chicken Tortilla Enchilada Rice Bake. Step by Step

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. This will form the base for sautéing your ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the chopped jalapeños and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Add your choice of ground chicken, beef, or turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Spice it Up

Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, and kosher salt. Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices, allowing them to bloom and deepen in flavor.

Step 5: Combine the Sauces

Pour in the red enchilada sauce and add the optional chipotle chili in adobo, if using. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Add the Rice

Stir in the dry long grain rice, ensuring it’s fully incorporated into the sauce. Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches

Once the rice is cooked, mix in the chopped cilantro and lime juice for a fresh pop of flavor. Gently fold in the tortilla chips, allowing them to soak up some of the sauce.

Step 8: Cheese It Up

Top the mixture with shredded Mexican cheese, covering it evenly. Cover the skillet again and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes over low heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the One Skillet Saucy Chicken Tortilla Enchilada Rice Bake warm, garnished with extra cilantro, sliced avocado, and a dollop of yogurt. Enjoy the delightful layers of flavor in every bite!

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

Swap brown rice for white rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Use lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content.
Incorporate more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for added nutrients.
Opt for low-sodium enchilada sauce to control sodium intake.

Mistakes That Ruin One Skillet Saucy Chicken Tortilla Enchilada Rice Bake.

Not cooking the meat thoroughly can lead to a less enjoyable texture.
Adding too much rice without adjusting the liquid can result in a dry dish.
Skipping the simmering step may leave the rice undercooked.
Using stale tortilla chips can lead to a soggy texture instead of a delightful crunch.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This One Skillet Saucy Chicken Tortilla Enchilada Rice Bake can be made ahead of time! Prepare the dish up to the point of adding cheese and cover it tightly. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the skillet over low heat until warmed through, then add the cheese and let it melt before serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Be sure to adjust the liquid and cooking duration accordingly.

What can I substitute for the ground chicken?

You can substitute the ground chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! You can add more jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or use extra chipotle chili in adobo to increase the heat level.

Can I freeze the One Skillet Saucy Chicken Tortilla Enchilada Rice Bake?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Ready to Cook?

Now that you have the recipe for One Skillet Saucy Chicken Tortilla Enchilada Rice Bake, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds—if not thirds! So, roll up your sleeves, grab that skillet, and dive into this delicious, hearty meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!