Description
One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Fajita Rice is a delightful fusion of creamy textures and zesty flavors that dance on your palate. The tender chicken melds beautifully with the vibrant bell peppers and onions, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce that brings warmth and comfort to every bite.
Ingredients
- Protein: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Grains: 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- Liquids: 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream
- Spices: 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; salt and pepper to taste
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the pot, sautéing until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the rice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the rice and heat on the stove over low heat.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: main-dish
- Method: one-pot cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
- Cholesterol: 90 milligrams
Keywords: One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Fajita Rice, easy chicken recipes, one-pot meals, cheesy rice dishes, Mexican-American cuisine, family-friendly dinners, quick weeknight meals, comfort food, chicken fajitas, creamy rice recipes, gluten-free meals, flavorful chicken dishes, rice and chicken recipes