This Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet is a flavorful and satisfying one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice are cooked together in a skillet with a zesty fajita seasoning and a touch of creamy sauce. It’s a delicious and convenient dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder: Less mess, less stress! This recipe comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Flavorful and Versatile: The combination of fajita spices, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables creates a delicious and satisfying meal that you can customize with your favorite toppings.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving a delicious and home-cooked meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious skillet meal:

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Cut into bite-sized pieces, chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts for this recipe.
Olive oil: For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
Red bell pepper and green bell pepper: Diced, for color, sweetness, and crunch.
Yellow onion: Diced, for flavor and texture.
Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
Fajita seasoning: Adds a blend of spices for that classic fajita flavor.
Garlic powder and smoked paprika: Adds extra flavor and a touch of smokiness.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
Tomato paste: Adds a concentrated tomato flavor and richness to the dish.
Long-grain white rice: Uncooked, for a fluffy and flavorful base.
Chicken broth: Low-sodium, adds flavor and moisture to the dish.
Heavy cream: Adds a touch of richness and creaminess.
Cheddar cheese: Shredded, for a melty and cheesy topping.
Fresh cilantro: Chopped, for garnish and a fresh herb flavor.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sprinkle with half of the fajita seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining fajita seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika over the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Liquids

Stir in the tomato paste and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the uncooked rice and stir to combine with the chicken and vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or according to your rice package instructions, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use fresh ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh vegetables and freshly shredded cheese.
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, use less fajita seasoning or omit the smoked paprika.
Rinse the rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking helps to prevent it from clumping.
Let it rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt completely.

How to Serve Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet

One-Pan Meal: This Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own.
Side Dish: Serve it as a side dish with your favorite Mexican-inspired main courses, such as tacos or enchiladas.
Lunchbox Friendly: Pack leftovers for a delicious and convenient lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may be more prone to drying out during cooking.

Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can use other types of rice, such as brown rice or quinoa, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as sliced mushrooms or diced zucchini. You can also add black beans or lentils for extra protein.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Use a spicier fajita seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the skillet while cooking.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!