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1 photo There is something incredibly comforting about a skillet dinner that comes together in one pan. The sound of sizzling chicken, the aroma of warm spices blooming in oil, and the bright pop of lime at the end — it feels like a weeknight victory before you even sit down to eat.
This Spicy Chicken Taco Skillet became one of those “back-pocket” meals in my kitchen. The kind you make when the day feels long, everyone is hungry, and you need something hearty but not complicated. It is bold and cozy at the same time. The smoky paprika and chili powder wrap around the tender ground chicken, while the black beans and corn add texture and a little sweetness.
What I love most is how customizable it is. Some nights we pile it high with crushed tortilla chips for crunch. Other nights we spoon it over rice for something extra filling. A squeeze of fresh lime and handful of cilantro makes everything taste vibrant and fresh.
And the best part? It all happens in one skillet. Less cleanup. More flavor. More time at the table together.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Spicy Chicken Taco Skillet :
Step 1 :
Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I like using my Lodge Cast Iron Skillet, but any large pan you already have at home will work perfectly.
Step 2 :
Add the ground chicken and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. I use the OXO Good Grips Wooden Spoon, but any sturdy spoon in your kitchen does the job.
Step 3 :
Add diced onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and fragrant.
Step 4 :
Stir in tomato paste, salsa, black beans, and corn. Mix everything thoroughly using a Cuisinart Silicone Spatula and let it simmer for another 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Step 5 :
Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice.
Step 6 :
Serve warm topped with shaved lettuce, tortilla chips, sliced avocado, cilantro, and your favorite taco sauce.
Who This Spicy Chicken Taco Skillet Is Perfect For :
Kid-Friendly Appeal :
The mild spice level can easily be adjusted for smaller palates.
The familiar taco flavors feel comforting and recognizable.
The soft texture of ground chicken is easy to chew and enjoy.
Fun toppings let kids build their own bowl at the table.
Comfort-Food Lovers Benefits :
Warm spices create a cozy and satisfying aroma.
Hearty beans and chicken make every bite feel filling.
The skillet format keeps everything rich and well blended.
It brings a relaxed, weeknight dinner feeling to the table.
Busy-Life Adults Advantages :
Everything cooks together in one pan for easy cleanup.
The recipe comes together in about thirty minutes.
Simple pantry spices keep preparation stress free.
Leftovers reheat well for lunch the next day.
Vegetarian / Dietary Friendly Appeal :
The recipe is naturally dairy free and easy to adapt.
Beans and corn provide plant based protein and fiber.
Ground chicken can be swapped with plant crumbles if preferred.
It fits well into a balanced and gluten free meal plan.
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Spicy Chicken Taco Skillet
This Spicy Chicken Taco Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal loaded with seasoned ground chicken, black beans, corn, and salsa. Perfect for busy weeknights, it delivers bold taco flavors in every bite and is easily customizable with your favorite toppings.
Spicy Chicken Taco Skillet
Instructions
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground chicken and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, breaking it apart.
- Add onion, garlic, spices, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste, salsa, black beans, and corn. Cook 5 to 7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in cilantro and lime juice.
- Serve with lettuce, tortilla chips, avocado, cilantro, and taco sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 420kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 21g33%
- Saturated Fat 4g20%
- Cholesterol 95mg32%
- Sodium 720mg30%
- Potassium 780mg23%
- Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
- Dietary Fiber 7g29%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 35g70%
- Vitamin A 850 IU
- Vitamin C 18 mg
- Calcium 85 mg
- Iron 3.5 mg
- Vitamin D 0.3 mcg
- Vitamin E 2.5 mg
- Vitamin K 45 mcg
- Thiamin 0.3 mg
- Riboflavin 0.4 mg
- Niacin 12 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.8 mg
- Folate 120 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0.6 mcg
- Biotin 8 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 1.5 mg
- Phosphorus 320 mg
- Iodine 18 mcg
- Magnesium 75 mg
- Zinc 2.8 mg
- Selenium 28 mcg
- Copper 0.2 mg
- Manganese 0.6 mg
- Chromium 6 mcg
- Molybdenum 15 mcg
- Chloride 350 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Substitutions
Ground turkey works well instead of chicken. Pinto beans can replace black beans. Use onion and garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
Serving ideas
Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or in warm tortillas. It also works beautifully as a taco bowl base.
Mistakes to avoid
Do not overcrowd the skillet when browning chicken. Avoid overcooking or the meat may become dry.
Chef tips
Let the tomato paste cook for a minute before adding liquids to deepen flavor. Fresh lime juice at the end brightens everything.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes it stores well and reheats beautifully for meal prep.
Q. Is this recipe spicy?
It has moderate heat but you can adjust by choosing mild or hot salsa.
Q. Can I freeze it?
Yes freeze without toppings for up to 2 months.
Q. Can I make it low carb?
Yes skip the beans and corn and add extra vegetables instead.
