Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet

If you’re craving a one-pan meal that’s bursting with vibrant flavors, hearty textures, and effortless prep, look no further than this Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet. This dish brings together tender chicken breast, colorful bell peppers, and onions, all seasoned with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. It’s cooked alongside fluffy rice, black beans, and corn, then topped with melty cheese and fresh cilantro for a finish that’s as delightful as it is satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or entertaining friends, this recipe is simple, comforting, and incredibly flavorful.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

There’s something about the combination of smoky spices, juicy chicken, and hearty rice that makes this Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet a guaranteed hit. It’s the perfect weeknight meal because it comes together in one pan, saving you time on both cooking and cleanup. Plus, the medley of textures—from the tender meat to the soft rice and crisp veggies—keeps every bite interesting. The cheese adds creamy richness, while the fresh cilantro garnish brightens up the dish with a pop of herbal freshness. It’s also easily customizable, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser for all kinds of taste buds. And since it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients, it’s a balanced meal that satisfies both kids and adults.

What Goes In

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced: The star protein, sliced thin for quick, even cooking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
• 1 bell pepper, sliced: Adds color, sweetness, and crunch.
• 1 onion, sliced: Builds savory depth and balances the spices.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Provides warmth and a gentle kick.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Earthy spice that’s essential for fajita flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle garlicky aromatics.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance all the flavors.
• 1 cup rice, uncooked: Absorbs the spices and broth for a flavorful base.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Keeps the rice moist and infuses it with savory goodness.
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained: Adds protein and a creamy texture.
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned: Sweetness and a pop of color.
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack): For gooey, melty richness.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness.

Essential Tools for Success

• Large skillet or sauté pan: A wide, heavy-bottomed pan works best for even cooking.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For slicing chicken and vegetables precisely.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure the perfect balance of spices and liquids.
• Lid for the skillet: Important to cover the rice while it cooks for fluffiness.

Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare the chicken and vegetables

Start by slicing the chicken breast into thin strips. Slice the bell pepper and onion into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. Having everything prepped upfront makes the cooking process smooth and quick.

Step 2: Sauté the chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips, seasoning them with half the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is browned and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the sliced bell pepper and onion, seasoning with the rest of the spices. Sauté until the veggies are softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 4: Add rice and broth

Stir the uncooked rice into the skillet with the vegetables, coating it with the spices and oil. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid.

Step 5: Simmer until rice is tender

Let the rice cook covered for about 15 minutes, or until almost all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 6: Mix in beans, corn, and chicken

Once the rice is nearly done, gently fold in the black beans, corn, and cooked chicken. Cover again and cook for another 5 minutes to heat everything through.

Step 7: Add cheese and garnish

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover once more until the cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes. Finish by garnishing with fresh cilantro if you like.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

• Swap bell peppers for zucchini or summer squash in warmer months.
• Add diced tomatoes or salsa for a juicy, tangy twist.
• Use fresh corn when in season instead of canned or frozen.
• Top with diced avocado or a squeeze of fresh lime for brightness.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If the rice is undercooked but the liquid is gone, add a splash more broth or water, cover, and cook a few more minutes.
• For extra smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika along with the chili powder.
• If your chicken is dry, be sure not to overcook it in the initial sauté step since it will finish cooking with the rice.
• Use long-grain rice for fluffy, separate grains; short-grain can get sticky.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist. This Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet also freezes well — portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Your Top Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice will add more fiber and a nuttier flavor, but it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth to about 2 ½ cups and cook covered for 40-45 minutes, checking for doneness.

What other proteins can I use in this skillet?

Chicken breast is perfect for this recipe, but you can also use chicken thighs for juicier meat. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra black beans or even diced tofu.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely! Add a diced jalapeño with the peppers or sprinkle in cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to amp up the heat. Just adjust to your spice tolerance.

Is it possible to make this recipe in the oven?

Yes! After sautéing the chicken and vegetables, transfer everything to a baking dish, add broth, cover tightly with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes until the rice is tender. Top with cheese and broil briefly to melt.

Try These Next

• Jeera Rice Cumin Rice – A fragrant, spiced rice side to complement Mexican-inspired meals.
• Fajita Chicken Breast Foil Packet Dinners – Another easy way to enjoy fajita flavors with minimal cleanup.

Serve & Enjoy

This Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet is perfectly suited for serving straight from the pan. Pair it with a simple green salad or some warm tortillas on the side for a complete meal. Garnish extra with lime wedges for squeezing over the top and perhaps a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to cool the spices if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but also makes fantastic leftovers for next-day lunches or dinners. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and vibrant veggies makes every bite a fiesta of flavor.

Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet any night of the week—it’s sure to become a fast favorite in your recipe rotation!

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