Imagine a mouthwatering meal that combines the zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine with the ultimate convenience of a one-pot wonder. This Chicken Fajita and Rice Skillet is not just a recipe—it's a culinary lifesaver that transforms your weeknight dinner from mundane to magnificent in just 40 minutes! Packed with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly seasoned rice, this dish is about to become your new go-to meal that will have your family begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 diced chicken breasts, 1 sliced bell pepper, 1 sliced onion, 1 cup of rice, 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of fajita seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and half of the fajita seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell pepper.
- Sauté the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- After the vegetables are cooked, add the rice to the skillet and stir to combine, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
- Next, pour in the chicken broth and the remaining fajita seasoning. Stir everything together to combine well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- After the rice is cooked, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine with the rice and vegetables. Allow it to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Once everything is heated and well combined, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
Tips
- Use high-quality fajita seasoning for maximum flavor impact. Consider making your own blend for a personalized touch.
- Ensure your skillet or pot is large enough to accommodate all ingredients comfortably, allowing even cooking and perfect rice texture.
- For extra flavor, consider using fire-roasted bell peppers or adding a splash of lime juice at the end for brightness.
- Don't rush the chicken browning process—those golden edges create deep, delicious flavor foundations.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld and rice to fully absorb the seasoning.
- Optional garnishes like fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish's presentation and taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 75mg
