Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your dinner table! This One Skillet Fajita Style Chicken Rice is not just a meal; it's an experience that combines tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic spices—all cooked to perfection in one convenient skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe promises to deliver a hearty and satisfying feast in just 35 minutes. Dive into this culinary delight and discover how easy it is to whip up a flavorful fiesta that will leave your family and friends craving more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fajita seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of sliced chicken breast, 1 sliced bell pepper, 1 sliced onion, 1 cup of rice, 2 cups of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of fajita seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken breast to the skillet. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
- While the vegetables are cooking, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.
- Once the vegetables are cooked, add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.
- Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth and add the 2 tablespoons of fajita seasoning. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
- After the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Fluff the rice with a fork and gently fold in the cooked chicken. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving. This will enhance the flavors. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, slice your chicken and vegetables in advance. You can even marinate the chicken in fajita seasoning for a few hours to enhance the flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and onions not only add vibrant color but also elevate the taste of your dish. If possible, choose organic produce for the best flavor.
- Toast the Rice: Don’t skip the step of toasting the rice! This enhances its nutty flavor and adds depth to the overall dish.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like it spicy, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the fajita seasoning.
- Fluff and Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for a more enjoyable eating experience.
- Garnish for Flavor: Elevate your dish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or even avocado slices for added creaminess and flavor.
- Leftovers: This dish makes excellent leftovers! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for a quick and tasty lunch option the next day.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
