One-Skillet Chicken Fajita Rice

Name: One-Skillet Chicken Fajita Rice: Juicy, Crispy Bliss!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow onion, sliced; Rice: 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed; Broth: 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; Spices: 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil; Toppings: Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges; Shredded cheese (optional)

Posted on January 10, 2026

Dinner

One-Skillet Chicken Fajita Rice: Juicy, Crispy Bliss!

Sensory-Rich Introduction with Immediate Craving

Imagine a vibrant dish that fills your kitchen with the tantalizing aroma of sizzling chicken and colorful bell peppers, each bite bursting with zesty flavors. One-Skillet Chicken Fajita Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a lively Mexican fiesta. Picture yourself gathered around the table with family or friends, laughter echoing as you savor the comforting warmth of this hearty dish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, bringing joy and satisfaction to your dining table.

Why You’ll Love This One-Skillet Chicken Fajita Rice

Texture Contrast: The tender chicken contrasts beautifully with the crisp-tender vegetables and fluffy rice, creating a delightful mouthfeel.
Flavor Balance: A harmonious blend of spices, sweetness from the peppers, and the savory depth of chicken broth make each bite a flavor explosion.
Versatility: This dish can easily adapt to your preferences—swap chicken for beans for a vegetarian option or use quinoa for a gluten-free twist.
Ease of Preparation: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks.
Universal Appeal: Loved by both kids and adults, this dish is a surefire hit at family dinners or casual gatherings.

Essential Tools & Preparation Strategy

Large Skillet: Essential for cooking everything in one pan, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Cutting Board: Necessary for safely chopping vegetables and chicken, ensuring a clean workspace.
Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for precise cutting of ingredients, making prep quick and efficient.
Measuring Cups: Important for accurately measuring rice and broth, ensuring perfect ratios for cooking.
Spatula: Useful for stirring and flipping ingredients in the skillet, helping to achieve even cooking.
Lid: Needed to cover the skillet while the rice cooks, trapping steam for perfect texture.
Colander: For rinsing the rice, removing excess starch to prevent gumminess.
Serving Spoon: To serve the dish easily and elegantly at the table.

Ingredients & Their Roles in This One-Skillet Chicken Fajita Rice

Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Provides protein and heartiness.
Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
These add color, crunch, and sweetness, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
Rice: 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed. Acts as the base, absorbing flavors and providing texture.
Broth: 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth. Infuses the rice with savory depth and moisture.
Spices:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
These create the signature fajita flavor profile.
Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil. Used for sautéing, adding richness and helping to brown the chicken.
Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Shredded cheese (optional)
These add freshness and brightness, enhancing the dish’s appeal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect One-Skillet Chicken Fajita Rice

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Sauté the Vegetables: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
Add the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
Pour in the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, fluff the rice with a fork, and mix everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Rest Before Serving: Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips for Flawless Results

Make-Ahead Instructions: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage: To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to the skillet and warm over low heat to prevent drying out.
Equipment Recommendations: A non-stick skillet can help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Customization Options: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.

Avoid These Common Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the Chicken: This can lead to dry meat. Cook just until no longer pink.
Not Rinsing the Rice: This can result in gummy rice. Always rinse to remove excess starch.
Using Too Much Liquid: This can make the dish soupy. Stick to the recommended broth amount.
Not Letting the Dish Rest: Skipping this step can lead to mushy rice. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes.
Overcrowding the Skillet: This can cause uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
Skipping the Spices: This can lead to bland flavor. Always season generously.
Not Adjusting for Personal Taste: This can result in a dish that doesn’t suit your palate. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Creative Variations & Customizations

Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with black beans or chickpeas for a protein-packed alternative.
Quinoa Substitute: Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option that adds a nutty flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy heat.
Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal veggies like zucchini or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamy texture.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With One-Skillet Chicken Fajita Rice

Warm Tortillas: Serve with warm tortillas for a complete fajita experience.
Guacamole: Pair with a side of guacamole for a creamy contrast.
Sour Cream: Top with sour cream for added richness and tang.
Fresh Garden Salad: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a refreshing crunch.
Black Beans: Accompany with black beans for extra protein and fiber.
Light Mexican Beer: Pair with a light Mexican beer to complement the spices.
Corn on the Cob: Serve with a side of corn on the cob for a sweet addition.
Avocado Slices: Top with avocado slices for a creamy texture and healthy fats.

Storage & Meal Prep Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Methods: Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Facts & Health Insights

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Serving Size	1 cup
Calories	450
Sugar	3 grams
Sodium	600 milligrams
Fat	12 grams
Saturated Fat	2 grams
Unsaturated Fat	8 grams
Trans Fat	0 grams
Carbohydrates	55 grams
Fiber	3 grams
Protein	30 grams
Cholesterol	70 milligrams

Health Benefits: This dish is rich in protein from chicken, fiber from vegetables, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a balanced meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white? Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.
What can I substitute for chicken broth? Vegetable broth or water can be used as alternatives.
How can I make this dish spicier? Add more chili powder or fresh jalapeños to increase the heat.
Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, it can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What if I don’t have a large skillet? A Dutch oven or any large pot can work as a substitute.
Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and rice.
Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Inspiration & Kitchen Confidence

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and with this One-Skillet Chicken Fajita Rice, you can create a delicious meal that brings everyone together. Celebrate your culinary achievements, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Remember, every dish is a chance to express your creativity in the kitchen. So grab your skillet, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the bliss of a homemade meal that’s sure to impress!