Spicy Skillet Chicken

Prep: 10 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mexican

A flavorful spicy skillet chicken dish with tomatoes, rice, and vegetables, perfect for a hearty, quick meal with a touch of heat and savory richness.

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Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1 fryer chicken, cut up and skinned
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 (14 oz.) cans chopped tomatoes
  • 1 package taco seasoning
  • 1 cup thinly sliced celery
  • 1 cup long grain rice
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion

Instructions

  1. Combine flour and seasoned salt in a plastic bag.
  2. Add chicken pieces and shake to coat well.
  3. In a large skillet, brown the chicken in vegetable oil.
  4. Continue cooking, uncovered, over low heat for 15 minutes.
  5. Add chopped tomatoes, taco seasoning, sliced celery, chopped onion, and rice; blend well.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
  7. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
  8. May sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and/or parsley before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using a spicy taco seasoning blend. If you don’t have seasoned salt, you can substitute with regular salt and a pinch of garlic powder. For a healthier option, try using skinless chicken breasts and brown rice. To save time, pre-chop your vegetables and use canned tomatoes with green chilies for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Spicy Skillet Chicken over a bed of fresh greens or alongside a refreshing Mexico-Tequila Salad for a vibrant meal. It pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread or tortillas to soak up the delicious sauce. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Spicy Skillet Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Spicy Skillet Chicken contains roughly 705 calories, with 12g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (62% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

705 kcal 35% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12.3g 25% DV
Total Fat 34g 44% DV
Carbs 83.7g 30% DV
Fiber 9.6g 34% DV
Sugar 8.8g 18% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 1032.8mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 40.3mg 13% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 554.7mcg 62% DV
Vitamin C 16.3mg 18% DV
Calcium 101.5mg 8% DV
Iron 5.9mg 33% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time as boneless pieces may cook faster. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are fully cooked.

What can I substitute for rice if I want a low-carb option?

You can replace the rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb alternative. Both options will absorb the flavors well and provide a satisfying texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat thoroughly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it taste even better.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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