Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl

The Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl is one of those meals that can transport you straight to a sunny kitchen bustling with flavor. I remember the first time I whipped it up; the aroma of sizzling chicken and vibrant bell peppers filled the air, and my family couldn’t help but gather around the table, eager for a taste. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm invitation to share stories and laughter over a delicious, satisfying dish. Every bite offers a delightful mix of spices and textures, making each serving a little celebration of life. The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights, this Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen too!

What to Gather for Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl

When it comes to the ingredients for the Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl, they are a harmonious blend of flavors that truly complement each other. The key components, such as chicken, bell peppers, and onions, create a base that is both satisfying and nutritious. The spices elevate this dish, making it a favorite all year round.

• 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces: The star protein of the dish, chicken adds a hearty texture and absorbs all the wonderful spices.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 2 1/2 Tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds richness and helps in browning the chicken.
• 1 cup diced yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
• 3 cups chopped bell pepper (about 2 medium): A colorful addition that brings a crunch and sweetness to the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: A must-have for aromatic flavor.
• 1 2/3 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Provides moisture and enhances flavor.
• 1 (15 oz) can fire roasted tomatoes: Adds a smoky flavor that brings everything together.
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Offers protein and fiber, making the dish even more filling.
• 2 1/2 tsp chili powder: Introduces a bit of heat and complexity.
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that pairs well with the other spices.
• 2 cups instant brown rice: The base of the bowl, providing a hearty texture.
• 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lime juice: Brightens up the dish with its acidity.
• 3/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese: Melts beautifully over the top, adding creaminess.
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro: A fresh herb that adds a pop of color and flavor.

How to Prepare Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl

Preparing the Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl is a delightful journey of flavors and aromas that fill your kitchen. Follow these steps closely to bring your dish to life and enjoy the process of cooking.

1. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a non-stick 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet over medium-high heat. It’s best to get the oil hot, which helps in searing the chicken.
2. Add the diced chicken to the pan. Season it generously with 1 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir it around to ensure even cooking. You’ll notice the chicken turning golden brown within about 7 minutes.
3. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a sheet of foil and wrap it to keep warm. This step is essential to maintain moisture in your protein.
4. Return the skillet to medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil. Once hot, toss in the onions and sauté for about 3 minutes until they become translucent.
5. Next, add the chopped bell peppers to the pan. Sauté them for another 3 minutes until they soften slightly.
6. In the last minute of cooking, add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. You’ll love the aroma filling your kitchen.
7. Now, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, and the remaining spices, including 1 tsp chili powder and 1/2 tsp cumin. Season again with salt and pepper to taste. Bring it to a boil, and watch as the liquid bubbles up in the center of the pan.
8. Once boiling, add the instant brown rice and toss well to coat it in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium and cover the pan, letting it simmer for about 6 to 7 minutes.
9. After simmering, remove the pan from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
10. Finally, stir in the cooked chicken, lime juice, cheese, and cilantro. Serve the Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl warm and enjoy!

Customization Ideas

The Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl is incredibly customizable, making it a versatile addition to your meal repertoire. Here are some ideas to tailor it to your tastes:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This meal can be frozen before adding the cheese. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Pairing: Consider serving with a side of guacamole or a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
• Extra Protein: For added protein, consider including diced shrimp or tofu as alternatives to chicken.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or green onions for a different taste.
• Heat Level: Add chopped jalapeños to the pan for an extra kick of heat.

Serving Ideas for Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl

Serving your Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl can be as fun as preparing it! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:

• Family Style: Serve the Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl in a large dish and let everyone help themselves. It’s a great way to foster conversation and sharing.
• Lunch Option: This dish makes a fantastic lunch the next day, simply reheat and enjoy.
• Garnishes: Top with additional cilantro, slices of avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
• Seasonal Pairing: Serve with a fresh summer salad or grilled corn on the cob for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep: Make a big batch on Sunday and portion it out for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Occasions: Perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even festive occasions like taco night!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl truly brings together vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients in a simple, satisfying dish. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping meals for the week ahead. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own; you’ll find it’s a delightful way to enjoy a comforting meal that’s both easy and delicious!

Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl

The ultimate comfort food, the Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl is a vibrant blend of spices, juicy chicken, and fresh vegetables. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for families, bringing everyone together for a flavorful meal. With its one-pan preparation, cleaning up is a breeze. Make it tonight for a satisfying dish!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts diced into 1-inch pieces
• to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 3 cups chopped bell pepper (about 2 medium)
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 2/3 cups slow-sodium chicken broth
• 1 15 oz can fire roasted tomatoes
• 1 15 oz can black beans drained and rinsed
• 2 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 cups instant brown rice
• 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
• 3/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Large Pot
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Saucepan
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a non-stick 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet over medium-high heat. It’s best to get the oil hot, which helps in searing the chicken.
2. Add the diced chicken to the pan. Season it generously with 1 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir it around to ensure even cooking. You’ll notice the chicken turning golden brown within about 7 minutes.
3. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a sheet of foil and wrap it to keep warm. This step is essential to maintain moisture in your protein.
4. Return the skillet to medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil. Once hot, toss in the onions and sauté for about 3 minutes until they become translucent.
5. Next, add the chopped bell peppers to the pan. Sauté them for another 3 minutes until they soften slightly.
6. In the last minute of cooking, add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. You'll love the aroma filling your kitchen.
7. Now, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, and the remaining spices, including 1 tsp chili powder and 1/2 tsp cumin. Season again with salt and pepper to taste. Bring it to a boil, and watch as the liquid bubbles up in the center of the pan.
8. Once boiling, add the instant brown rice and toss well to coat it in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium and cover the pan, letting it simmer for about 6 to 7 minutes.
9. After simmering, remove the pan from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
10. Finally, stir in the cooked chicken, lime juice, cheese, and cilantro. Serve the Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl warm and enjoy!

Notes

• Tip 1: For additional spice flavor you can also add 1 tsp paprika and 1/2 tsp ground coriander to the broth mixture.
• Tip 2: Optionally you can serve with diced avocado or Mexican hot sauce.
• Tip 3: If you love heat you can also sauté a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers.

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Meet Chloe Bennett

I started this blog to document the rustic, comforting food I love to make. I’m the “Pine” of the group I’m all about hearty stews, wood-fired cooking, and cozy, one-pot meals. I brought my best friends on board to make this a shared journal of our adventures. I work closely with Maya to develop our main courses and do most of the writing for our posts.