If you are craving a vibrant, comforting meal that bursts with bold flavors and comes together in one pan, the Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet Recipe is precisely what you need. This dish marries tender, seasoned chicken with colorful bell peppers, creamy rice, and just the right amount of smoky spice, all cooked together for convenience and incredible taste. It’s a satisfying family favorite that transforms simple ingredients into a fiesta in your mouth!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet Recipe lies in its straightforward, accessible ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the juicy chicken thighs to the vivid bell peppers and creamy cheddar, every element contributes something special.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These stay juicy and tender, soaking up all the fajita spices beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for sautéing the chicken and veggies to golden perfection without sticking.
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant red color that makes the dish pop.
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced: Offers a slightly earthy, fresh flavor that balances the sweetness.
- ½ medium yellow onion, diced: Brings natural sweetness and enhances the fajita aroma.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: For a punch of fragrant depth and savory spice.
- 1 (1 oz) packet fajita seasoning: The heart of the dish’s bold flavor, packed with chili, cumin, and smoked paprika.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor with ease.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky warmth that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: To round out and enhance all the natural flavors.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Deepens the color and adds subtle richness.
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: Absorbs all the delicious cooking juices for a creamy texture.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish flavorful without overpowering it with salt.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Makes the rice luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top for that irresistible gooey finish.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness as the final touch.
How to Make Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken thighs and sprinkle them with half of the fajita seasoning. Cooking them until they’re browned on all sides and fully cooked through locks in flavor and creates a savory foundation for the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced red and green bell peppers, yellow onion, and minced garlic. Sprinkle with the remaining fajita seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, then season with salt and pepper. Adding tomato paste at this stage intensifies the flavors while the veggies soften, creating a colorful, fragrant base.
Step 3: Simmer with Rice
Stir the uncooked rice into the skillet, coating the grains with all those fabulous spices and juices. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. This slow simmer allows the rice to absorb every bit of flavor and become tender without losing its texture.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and cover the pan to let the cheese melt into a creamy blanket. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro right before serving to add a burst of freshness and color.
How to Serve Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is the classic garnish that elevates this dish with its bright, herbaceous note. For an extra kick, you can add a dollop of sour cream, a squeeze of lime, or even some sliced avocado for creaminess and contrast.
Side Dishes
This skillet recipe holds its own as a full meal, but if you want to round it out, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or some warm, soft tortillas to scoop up the cheesy rice. Black beans or a simple corn salad also make excellent, complementary sides.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet Recipe straight from the cooking pan for a casual, family-style meal. Alternatively, serve it in individual bowls with a sprinkle of extra cheese and cilantro on top. For a crowd, layer it into a casserole dish and bake briefly to get a golden crust on top for an inviting finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for busy weeknight lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for easiest reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth or water to restore creaminess and moisture. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works fine, but thighs deliver more juiciness and tenderness, which helps keep the dish moist and flavorful.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure your fajita seasoning and chicken broth are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another type?
Yes, feel free to swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican blend for slightly different but equally delicious results.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
You can substitute the heavy cream with an equal amount of whole milk or half-and-half, but the dish may be slightly less creamy.
Can I add other vegetables to the skillet?
Definitely! Onions, mushrooms, zucchini, or even corn kernels make great additions that complement the fajita flavors well.
Final Thoughts
There is just something so satisfying about whipping up a Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet Recipe when you want a warm, comforting dish with a little zest and a lot of heart. It’s easy enough for weeknights but exciting enough to become a new favorite anytime you crave a vibrant, tasty meal. Trust me, once you try it, this skillet recipe will likely find a permanent spot on your dinner rotation!
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Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
This Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal combining tender chicken thighs, vibrant bell peppers, and aromatic spices with creamy rice and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner, this recipe balances smoky, savory fajita flavors with the comfort of a hearty skillet dish.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- ½ medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Spices
- 1 (1 oz) packet fajita seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and sprinkle with half of the fajita seasoning. Cook the chicken until it is browned on all sides and cooked through, ensuring a juicy and flavorful base for the skillet.
- Sauté Vegetables: To the same skillet, add diced red and green bell peppers, diced yellow onion, and minced garlic. Sprinkle with the remaining fajita seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add tomato paste and sauté the vegetables until they soften and meld with the spices, enhancing the depth of flavor.
- Simmer with Rice: Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice, then pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed, creating a creamy, well-seasoned rice base.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and cover again to allow the cheese to melt smoothly into the dish. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving hot for a vibrant, tasty finish.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier and more flavorful meat, but chicken breast can be substituted if preferred.
- Adjust the level of seasoning according to your taste; add more fajita seasoning for a spicier dish.
- To make it dairy-free, omit the heavy cream and cheddar cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Ensure the rice is fully covered with liquid to avoid uneven cooking or burning at the bottom of the skillet.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
