One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice
Imagine a dinner that requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. Enter One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice, a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of fajitas straight to your dinner table without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. This recipe combines tender rotisserie chicken, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic spices all cooked together with rice to create a hearty meal that will please the entire family. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. The one-pan method means you can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal. Second, the use of rotisserie chicken makes it a quick option for busy weeknights, providing flavor and protein without the need for extensive cooking. Finally, the combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor. This recipe not only saves time but also brings a burst of colors and tastes to your table!
Ingredient Checklist
To make this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 white onion, diced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 (4.5 ounce) can Old El Paso diced green chiles
- Juice of one lime (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Cilantro for garnish (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Additional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, diced tomato, cilantro
Essential Tools for Success
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the following tools:
- Large skillet or sauté pan: Perfect for cooking everything in one pan.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables and chicken.
- Serving spoon: For easy serving of your delicious dish!
One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Rice
Stir in the long-grain white rice, ensuring it gets coated with the butter and mixed with the sautéed vegetables. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the rice.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Carefully add the chicken broth, salt, ground cumin, and chili powder to the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
Step 4: Incorporate the Chicken and Chiles
Once the rice is tender, stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced green chiles, and the juice of one lime. Mix everything thoroughly, allowing the chicken to heat through. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Sour Cream
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the sour cream, mixing until everything is creamy and well combined. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, covering the pan until the cheese melts.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish your One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and diced tomatoes. Enjoy the delightful flavors and ease of this one-pan wonder!
Texture-Safe Substitutions
If you’re looking to customize your One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice, consider these texture-safe substitutions:
- Quinoa instead of rice: For a gluten-free option, replace the white rice with quinoa. Adjust the liquid ratio accordingly.
- Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb alternative, use cauliflower rice and reduce the cooking time.
- Vegetarian protein: Swap rotisserie chicken for black beans or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
- Other vegetables: Add zucchini, corn, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
Steer Clear of These
While preparing One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice, here are some things to avoid:
- Overcooking the rice: Keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure the rice doesn’t become mushy.
- Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables enhances their flavors, so don’t skip this step!
- Using regular chicken broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Neglecting to taste: Always taste and adjust seasonings as necessary to suit your preference.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
To make the most of your One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.
Your Top Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth and cooking time accordingly.
What can I serve with One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice?
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh salad, tortilla chips, or homemade guacamole for added crunch.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it for an easy weeknight dinner.
Is this recipe customizable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, you can easily customize it by using gluten-free rice, vegetarian protein, or dairy alternatives for the sour cream and cheese.
Next Steps
Now that you have the recipe for One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Experiment with different toppings and variations to make this dish your own. Share your results with friends and family, and enjoy the flavorful explosion that this one-pan meal offers. Happy cooking!
One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the long-grain white rice, ensuring it gets coated with the butter and mixed with the sautéed vegetables.
- Carefully add the chicken broth, salt, ground cumin, and chili powder to the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- Once the rice is tender, stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced green chiles, and the juice of one lime. Mix everything thoroughly, allowing the chicken to heat through. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the sour cream, mixing until everything is creamy and well combined. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, covering the pan until the cheese melts.
- Garnish your One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and diced tomatoes.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
