Chicken Fajita Rice

By Tyla | Last modified on Jan 4, 2026

Featured in: Dinner

Chicken Fajita Rice is a vibrant and hearty dish that brings the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine into a simple, one-skillet meal. This colorful combination of tender chicken, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic onions creates a satisfying dish perfect for any weeknight dinner.

With a perfect balance of spices and fluffy rice mingling with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, each bite bursts with freshness and warmth. It’s not only delicious but also a quick and fuss-free way to enjoy a wholesome, gluten-free meal with the family or guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold, smoky spices give rich Tex-Mex flavor to every bite.
Quick skillet preparation makes it a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
Colorful veggies add freshness and a satisfying crunch.
Gluten-free and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

Chicken breast (1 pound, sliced): Tender lean protein, sliced thinly for quick cooking and absorbing all spice flavors.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used for sautéing chicken and vegetables, adding healthy fats and a subtle fruitiness.
Bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color, balancing the spices.
Onion (1, sliced): Provides savoriness and depth when caramelized alongside the peppers.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses aromatic flavor that complements the Tex-Mex seasoning perfectly.
Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Adds smoky heat and signature southwestern spice character.
Cumin (1 teaspoon): Gives earthy warmth essential for authentic fajita taste.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Enhances color and provides a mild peppery flavor.
Salt and pepper: Season to taste to balance and elevate the overall dish.
Cooked rice (2 cups): Fluffy rice serves as the hearty base that soaks up all the bold flavors.
Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds a bright, citrusy herbal note for freshness.
Lime wedges: Perfect for squeezing before serving to add tangy brightness and balance richness.

Instructions

Heat the skillet and cook chicken: Start by warming the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast, then season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cooking the chicken until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, ensures it is juicy and fully infused with the spices.
Add and sauté the vegetables: Next, add the sliced bell pepper and onion to the skillet. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized, which enhances their natural sweetness and texture. Stir in the minced garlic last, cooking for an additional minute to release its fragrant aroma without burning.
Combine chicken, veggies, and rice: Transfer the cooked rice to a large mixing bowl. Add the chicken and vegetable mixture and toss gently. This step ensures the rice is evenly coated with the flavorful spices and juices, blending all elements into a cohesive, delicious dish.
Garnish and serve: Serve the fajita rice into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. Offer lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish, which adds a perfect zesty contrast to the rich flavors.

You Must Know

You can easily customize the dish by adding sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole for creaminess.
Adjust the level of chili powder to control the heat intensity to your preference.
Leftover Chicken Fajita Rice stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or warm corn tortillas for a full Tex-Mex experience. Add salsa or sour cream on the side to customize each serving.

Professional Tips

Use day-old rice if possible, as it helps prevent the dish from becoming mushy when combined with wet ingredients.
Cut vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.
For extra depth, consider adding a splash of lime juice during cooking to brighten flavors.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?: Yes, brown rice works well and adds extra fiber, but it may require a longer initial cooking time.
What can I substitute for chicken breast?: Chicken thighs or turkey slices can be used for a juicier or leaner variation.
How spicy is this dish?: It has a mild to moderate spice level that can be adjusted by adding more or less chili powder or including fresh jalapeños.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?: Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or beans and increase the seasoning and veggies for a hearty vegetarian option.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?: It is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, as freezing may affect the texture of the rice and vegetables.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the spices and rice you use do not contain gluten additives.
What side dishes go well with Chicken Fajita Rice?: Consider serving with chips and salsa, guacamole, or a simple cucumber salad for complementary flavors.