If you’re on the hunt for an absolutely crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed dinner that practically guarantees empty plates, look no further than this Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet. Picture juicy strips of chicken, colorful peppers, all the right spices, and fluffy rice coming together in one pan for the ultimate comfort food experience. This is a quick, easy weeknight dish that tastes like a fiesta, and it manages to deliver tons of flavor without creating a mountain of dishes. Whether you’re craving a cozy night in or something special to share with friends, this is the skillet supper you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here—just a handful of classic ingredients that each play a key role in making this Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet unforgettable. Every component, from the tender chicken to the zesty lime, adds a layer of savor, warmth, or freshness that transforms simple pantry staples into something magical.
- Chicken breasts: Sliced into thin strips so they cook quickly and soak up all those spice flavors.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky base for sautéing and keeps everything tender without heaviness.
- Red bell pepper: For sweet pops of color and extra crunch.
- Green bell pepper: Adds a slightly grassy earthiness and another vibrant hue.
- Onion: The secret to a hint of natural sweetness in every bite.
- Garlic: Because no savory skillet is complete without that unmistakable aroma.
- Chili powder: Infuses warmth and a gentle smokiness—signature fajita flavor.
- Ground cumin: Adds that deep, toasty note you love in Tex-Mex dishes.
- Paprika: For gorgeous color and a subtle sweet-pepper kick.
- Oregano: A hint of herbaceous, earthy flavor that ties it all together.
- Salt: Brightens all the seasonings and pulls every flavor to the forefront.
- Black pepper: For that gentle heat and complexity.
- Uncooked long grain rice: Soaks up all the juices and turns this into a hearty, comforting meal.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with a savory depth you just can’t get with water alone.
- Lime juice: Wakes up all the flavors with its fresh, tangy zing at the end.
- Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional): Adds a melty, creamy finish—totally irresistible.
- Chopped fresh cilantro: Sprinkled on top for a burst of color and herby freshness.
How to Make Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet
Step 1: Sear and Season the Chicken
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Toss the chicken strips with chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper, then sear them in the hot skillet for 4 to 5 minutes. As the chicken browns, it takes on layers of flavor from the spices while staying juicy inside. Once it’s just cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet (no need to clean it out—those bits are liquid gold!), add your second tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the bell peppers, onion, and garlic, and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes. The goal: slightly softened veggies that still hold their color and some crunch, with the garlic filling your kitchen with the best aroma.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Now, stir the uncooked rice into those sizzling veggies. Toasting the rice for a minute or two lets it pick up all the goodness in the pan and gives it an irresistible nutty note. It’s a tiny step that makes all the difference.
Step 4: Simmer the Skillet
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring so nothing sticks. Once boiling, cover the skillet, turn the heat down low, and let it gently simmer for 15 to 18 minutes. This is where the magic happens! The rice soaks up the seasoned broth, becoming fluffy and packed with flavor.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Uncover the skillet and return the cooked chicken. Drizzle everything with fresh lime juice and give it a good stir to combine all those gorgeous flavors. Sprinkle with cheese if you like, then cover the pan and let the cheese melt for a couple of minutes. Top off your Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet with a shower of fresh cilantro just before serving for that perfect finish.
How to Serve Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet
Garnishes
It’s the little things that really make this skillet shine. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for brightness, add a few generous slices of creamy avocado, or swirl on a dollop of sour cream for cool contrast. If you’re feeling festive, crumble some tortilla chips over the top for a bit of crunch. Each garnish brings a new level of excitement to every bite!
Side Dishes
While Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet is easily a full meal on its own, it also plays well with others. Try a simple green salad tossed with lime vinaigrette, or serve alongside black bean salad for even more Tex-Mex flair. Warm flour tortillas or cornbread on the side are always a great call for soaking up those last tasty bits from the pan.
Creative Ways to Present
You can easily turn your Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet into a fun, interactive meal. Spoon it into lettuce wraps for a lighter twist, fill taco shells for a crowd-pleasing “fajita taco,” or pack it into burrito-sized tortillas with extra cheese for a portable feast. Arrange the skillet at the center of the table and let everyone customize their own bowls with the garnishes and sides of their choice!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you (miraculously) have leftovers, just let the skillet cool to room temperature and transfer to an airtight container. Your Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet will stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days, making it perfect for easy meal prep or packed lunches.
Freezing
For longer storage, scoop portions of the cooled skillet into sealable freezer bags or containers. Label and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture. It’s a smart way to keep a delicious, homemade meal ready to go at a moment’s notice.
Reheating
To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice to help steam and revive it. Warm gently on the stovetop, covered, over low to medium heat, or zap in the microwave in a covered, microwave-safe dish until hot. Add fresh cilantro or avocado just before serving to restore that just-made flavor and burst of color.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken breasts are lean and tender, you can swap in boneless, skinless chicken thighs for an even juicier result. Just be sure to slice them thin so they cook at the same pace.
Is it possible to make this Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken with drained canned beans (like black beans or pinto beans), and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavors will still shine!
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Totally! Just keep in mind, brown rice takes longer to cook and needs extra liquid—plan on adding an additional cup of broth and 10 to 15 minutes to the simmer time.
What kind of cheese works best?
Shredded cheddar, Mexican blend, Monterey Jack, or even Pepper Jack are all delicious choices for melting over your Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet. Feel free to use your favorite or whatever you have on hand!
Do I have to use both red and green bell peppers?
Nope! You can use any combination of bell peppers you like, or even just one color. Each has its own slightly different flavor, so mix and match to suit your taste and what you have available.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely can’t wait for you to try this Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet. It’s one of those cozy, fuss-free meals that manages to be as impressive as it is easy to pull together, perfect for a weeknight or entertaining friends. Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready for a dinner everyone is going to love!
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Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet is a delicious one-pan meal that combines tender chicken strips with flavorful bell peppers, onions, and rice, all seasoned with Mexican spices. A perfect easy and satisfying dinner for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional)
- chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet, add and cook seasoned chicken strips until browned. Set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Add rice and toast.
- Cook Rice: Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer until rice is tender.
- Combine Ingredients: Return cooked chicken to the skillet, stir in lime juice. Add cheese, cover to melt, and garnish with cilantro.
Notes
- Serve with avocado slices, sour cream, or tortilla chips on the side.
- You can substitute brown rice, but adjust the broth and cooking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
