Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet Recipe

This Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan meal that’s bursting with flavor! Imagine tender chicken, fluffy rice, and colorful bell peppers, all cooked together in a skillet with a creamy, cheesy sauce and a hint of fajita spice. This recipe is ready in just 45 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you’re craving a satisfying and delicious dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a flash. It’s ready in 45 minutes with minimal prep and just one pan to clean.
• Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of fajita seasoning, garlic, and fresh cilantro creates a delicious and aromatic dish that’s packed with authentic Mexican-inspired flavors.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks together in one skillet, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile: Serve this dish as is, or customize it with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking. You can also use chicken breasts if you prefer.
• Olive oil: Used to cook the chicken and vegetables.
• Red, green, and yellow bell peppers: Diced and adds sweetness, color, and a bit of crunch.
• Onion: Diced and adds a savory base and sweetness.
• Garlic: Minced and adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• Fajita seasoning: Adds a blend of spices for that classic fajita flavor.
• Garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color.
• Salt and pepper: Season the dish to perfection.
• Tomato paste: Adds richness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
• Long-grain white rice: A classic and versatile rice that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
• Chicken broth: Adds flavor and moisture to the rice.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• Cheddar cheese: Shredded and adds a cheesy and gooey topping.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped and adds a fresh herb flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sprinkle with half of the fajita seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining fajita seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder over the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the tomato paste and stir well. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it’s well combined with the chicken and vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or according to your rice package instructions, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and cover the skillet again for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use freshly shredded cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and has a better flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
• Adjust the spice level: Adjust the amount of fajita seasoning or smoked paprika to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the dish.
• Rinse the rice: For best results, rinse the rice before cooking to prevent it from clumping.
• Let the dish rest: Allow the dish to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to fully develop before serving.

How to Serve

This Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are some ideas for serving it:

• Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or extra cheese, for people to customize their bowls.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for scooping and dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent the rice from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of protein? Yes, you can! Shrimp, steak, or even ground beef would be delicious substitutes for chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use a different type of rice? Absolutely! You can use brown rice, quinoa, or even couscous. Adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can! Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add chickpeas, lentils, or tofu for protein.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the dish? Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as sliced mushrooms, diced zucchini, or corn.

This Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet Recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and one-pan convenience, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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