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Easy Flavor-Packed Chicken Fajita Rice Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners

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A quick and easy one-pan chicken fajita rice dish packed with smoky, zesty flavors and tender chicken, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips (can substitute with thighs)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (about 200g)
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced (red, green, yellow)
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth (480ml), low-sodium preferred
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning (blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 fresh lime
  • Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Optional toppings: sliced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or salsa

Instructions

  1. Slice the chicken breast into thin strips about 1/2-inch wide. Thinly slice the bell peppers and onion. Mince the garlic. Measure out rice and broth.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and half the fajita seasoning (about 1/2 tablespoon). Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until chicken is lightly browned but not fully cooked. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and bell peppers. Sprinkle with remaining fajita seasoning and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until onions are translucent and peppers start to soften. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir uncooked rice into the veggie mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the rice with oil and seasonings.
  5. Return the browned chicken strips to the skillet on top of the rice and veggies. Pour in 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth. Stir gently to combine. Increase heat to bring mixture to a gentle boil.
  6. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Let simmer for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  7. After 20 minutes, remove lid and check if rice is tender and liquid absorbed. If needed, cover and cook another 2-3 minutes. Turn off heat once done.
  8. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Fluff rice gently with a fork to mix.
  9. Serve immediately with optional toppings like sliced avocado, shredded cheese, or sour cream.

Notes

Use a tight-fitting lid to trap steam for even rice cooking. Toasting the rice before simmering adds a nutty flavor and prevents gumminess. If rice sticks or browns too quickly, lower heat and add a splash of broth or water. For dairy-free, skip cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives. Brown rice or cauliflower rice can be substituted with adjusted cooking times and liquid amounts.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken fajita rice, easy chicken dinner, one-pan meal, quick weeknight dinner, fajita seasoning, healthy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://nadinetable.com/easy-flavor-packed-chicken-fajita-rice-recipe-for-quick-weeknight-dinners/