Chicken Fajita Rice: A Delicious One-Pan Meal!

Enjoy a warm, simple meal with Chicken Fajita Rice. This one-pan dish brings tender chicken, sweet peppers, and cooked rice together in a quick, tasty meal. You can make it on a weeknight when time is short. The dish uses common spices and a bit of oil. It cooks in one skillet for fewer dishes and fast cleanup. The peppers add color and mild crunch. The onion gives a soft, sweet base that mixes well with the meat. Stirring in fajita seasoning and rice makes the flavors come alive. You can use any rice you have on hand. Fresh cilantro on top brightens each bite. The meal feeds a small family or a few friends with little fuss. It also warms the kitchen with good smells while it cooks. This recipe fits busy routines and lazy nights alike. You can change peppers to suit your taste. Serve it hot and watch people smile at the plate. The steps are easy and clear for cooks of any skill. Try this dish for a fast, filling meal that feels like a treat. It makes a bright, simple dinner that stays on the table and brings comfort without fuss or long prep time.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fajita Rice

This Chicken Fajita Rice mixes chicken, peppers, onions, and rice in one pan. It saves time and cuts clean up. The fajita seasoning adds warm, savory notes that lift each bite. Peppers bring color, mild crunch, and sweet taste. The rice soaks up the juices and holds the flavors. You can use leftover rice or cook fresh rice to add. The recipe works for a quick weeknight meal, a simple family dinner, or a meal prep option. It feels like a treat but stays easy. You will like how fast it cooks and how full everyone feels and stays tasty.

How to Make Chicken Fajita Rice

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red, green, yellow)
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cups cooked rice
2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté until they are tender.
4. Stir in the fajita seasoning and cooked rice, mixing well to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve hot.

How to Serve Chicken Fajita Rice

Serve this dish straight from the pan while it is hot. Plate a generous scoop on each plate and add extra cilantro if you like. You can offer lime wedges on the side for a bright squeeze of juice. Add slices of avocado or a dollop of plain yogurt if you want a cool contrast. Keep the meal simple with a side salad or warm tortillas for scooping.

How to Store Chicken Fajita Rice

Cool the rice and chicken to room temperature before storing. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each burst.

Tips for the Best Chicken Fajita Rice

• Use rice that is already cooked and chilled for best texture.
• Cut the chicken into even pieces so it cooks through at the same time.
• Slice peppers and onions to similar sizes for even cooking.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end to get the balance you like.
• Add cilantro last to keep its bright color and fresh taste.

Recipe Variations (if any)

• Swap chicken for a different cut like thigh meat if you prefer a juicier bite.
• Add black beans or corn for extra texture and color.
• Use brown rice or a grain mix for a heartier dish.
• Stir in a squeeze of lime or a dash of hot sauce for extra tang or heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
A: Yes. Add diced leftover chicken at the end to warm through so it does not dry out.

Q: Can I make this gluten free?
A: Yes. Use a fajita seasoning that has no gluten and check labels for safe ingredients.

Q: How can I add more veggies?
A: Stir in chopped tomatoes, corn, or spinach near the end of cooking so they stay bright and not mushy.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes. Use a larger pan and cook in batches if needed to keep even heat and browning.

Q: Is this good for meal prep?
A: Yes. Store in portion containers and reheat for quick lunches or dinners.

Conclusion

For another take on a one-pan version, see a one-pan chicken fajita rice recipe from The Girl Who Ate Everything. For a baked option with similar flavors, try the one dish chicken fajita and rice bake from Sweet Savory and Steph.

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