One Dish Chicken Fajita and Rice Bake Recipe

Let me tell you, in our house, weeknight dinners are often a battlefield. Between after-school activities, homework battles, and the general chaos of family life, getting a healthy and delicious meal on the table can feel like scaling Mount Everest in flip-flops. That’s why recipes like this One Dish Chicken Fajita and Rice Bake are absolute lifesavers. I stumbled upon this gem while desperately searching for something that was both easy and exciting – something to break us out of our usual chicken-nugget rut. The promise of minimal cleanup and maximum flavor was too enticing to resist, and boy, am I glad I tried it! From the moment the aroma of sizzling fajita spices started wafting through the kitchen, I knew we were onto something good. And the verdict? Complete and utter family approval! Even my pickiest eater, who usually eyes anything green with suspicion, devoured his portion, declaring it “the best chicken ever!” The chicken was juicy and flavorful, the rice perfectly cooked and infused with all those wonderful fajita spices, and the veggies were tender-crisp – it was a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. This recipe has become a regular in our rotation, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Get ready to experience a weeknight dinner miracle that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to eat.

Ingredients

This recipe thrives on fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together to create a flavor explosion. Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list; most are pantry staples, and the fresh produce adds a wonderful dimension of taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to gather for your One Dish Chicken Fajita and Rice Bake:

• For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning (store-bought or homemade – see tips section for a recipe!)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Rice Bake:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced into thin strips
  • 2 bell peppers (any color combination – red, yellow, orange, green), sliced into thin strips
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
  • 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus extra for garnish
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese or cheddar cheese, or a blend
  • Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
  • Sour cream or guacamole, for serving (optional)

Ingredient Notes and Considerations:

• Chicken: Both chicken breasts and thighs work beautifully in this recipe. Chicken thighs tend to be more forgiving and stay moister during baking, while chicken breasts are leaner. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand. Cutting the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces ensures even cooking.
• Fajita Seasoning: Store-bought fajita seasoning blends are readily available and convenient. However, making your own allows you to control the ingredients and spice level. A homemade blend typically includes chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, and salt.
• Bell Peppers: A mix of bell pepper colors not only looks visually appealing but also adds a variety of subtle flavor notes. Red and yellow peppers tend to be sweeter, while green peppers have a slightly more bitter, earthy flavor. Orange peppers are somewhere in between.
• Jalapeño: If you enjoy a bit of heat, the jalapeño adds a wonderful kick. Remember to seed it to reduce the spiciness. For those who are very sensitive to spice, you can omit it altogether or substitute with a milder pepper like poblano.
• Diced Tomatoes: Using both plain diced tomatoes and diced tomatoes with green chilies adds depth of flavor. The green chilies provide a mild heat and smoky flavor. If you can’t find diced tomatoes with green chilies, you can use two cans of plain diced tomatoes and add a small can of chopped green chilies separately.
• Rice: Long-grain rice is recommended for this recipe as it cooks up fluffy and separate. Avoid using short-grain rice, which can become too sticky and mushy in a bake. Basmati or Jasmine rice will also work well, adding a fragrant aroma.
• Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds richness and flavor to the rice. Low-sodium chicken broth is a good choice to control the overall saltiness of the dish. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, although the flavor profile will be slightly different.
• Cheese: Monterey Jack and cheddar are classic choices for fajitas. Monterey Jack melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavor. Cheddar adds a sharper, more pronounced cheesy taste. You can also experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for extra spice or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the fajita flavors perfectly. If you are not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute with fresh parsley or omit it altogether.

Instructions

This One Dish Chicken Fajita and Rice Bake is incredibly straightforward to prepare. The beauty of it lies in its simplicity – minimal steps, minimal dishes, maximum flavor! Follow these easy instructions to create a delicious and satisfying meal:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken pieces, olive oil, lime juice, fajita seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Toss the chicken to ensure it’s evenly coated with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor. While the chicken marinates, you can prepare the vegetables and rice bake components.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven (at least 12 inches in diameter), heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. If using, add the minced jalapeño to the skillet during the last minute of sautéing.

Step 3: Assemble the Rice Bake

1. Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet.
2. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly browned, but not fully cooked through. This step adds depth of flavor and helps to keep the chicken juicy during baking.
3. Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and diced tomatoes with green chilies over the chicken and vegetables.
4. Add the uncooked long-grain rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil, and transfer it to the preheated oven.

Step 4: Bake and Finish

1. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Check for doneness by fluffing the rice with a fork. If the rice is still slightly firm and there is still liquid in the skillet, continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, checking periodically.
2. Remove the skillet from the oven and carefully remove the lid or foil.
3. Stir in the frozen corn kernels and chopped cilantro.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the rice bake.
5. Return the skillet to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Let the One Dish Chicken Fajita and Rice Bake rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro, if desired.
3. Serve hot, directly from the skillet, with lime wedges, sour cream, or guacamole on the side, if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When searing the chicken, ensure you don’t overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the pan and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, resulting in less browning and flavor. If necessary, sear the chicken in batches.
• Proper Liquid Ratio: Using the correct ratio of rice to liquid is crucial for perfectly cooked rice. This recipe uses a 1:2 ratio of rice to broth, which is ideal for long-grain rice. If you adjust the amount of rice, make sure to adjust the broth accordingly.
• Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s important to check for doneness rather than relying solely on the baking time. The rice is cooked through when it is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
• Resting Time: Allowing the rice bake to rest for a few minutes after baking helps to ensure that the rice is perfectly fluffy and not too wet. This also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Spice Level: This recipe is moderately spiced. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and jalapeño. For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper or use a spicier fajita seasoning blend.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated per serving, assuming 6 servings)

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-550 calories (Note: Calorie count can vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and cheese type/amount).

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown (per serving):

• Protein: 35-45 grams
• Carbohydrates: 45-55 grams
• Fat: 15-25 grams

Important Notes:

• These are estimated nutritional values and can vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used, as well as portion sizes.
• For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific ingredients you use.
• This recipe provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and some healthy fats. It also contains fiber from the vegetables and rice.
• To reduce the calorie and fat content, you can use leaner chicken (chicken breast), reduce the amount of cheese, or use a lower-fat cheese. You can also increase the amount of vegetables to boost the fiber and nutrient content while keeping calories relatively stable.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 25 minutes (includes chicken marinating and vegetable chopping)
• Cook time: 35-40 minutes (includes sautéing, baking, and resting time)
• Total time: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 5 minutes

This recipe is relatively quick to prepare, especially considering it’s a complete meal in one dish. The marinating time for the chicken is mostly hands-off, allowing you to focus on other tasks. The actual active cooking time is minimal, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can further streamline the prep process by:

• Pre-chopping vegetables: Chop the onions and bell peppers ahead of time (up to a day in advance) and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese saves time compared to shredding cheese yourself.
• Utilizing store-bought fajita seasoning: A pre-made fajita seasoning blend eliminates the need to measure out individual spices.

How to Serve

This One Dish Chicken Fajita and Rice Bake is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Fajita Style:
  • Serve directly from the skillet, family-style, allowing everyone to scoop their own portions.
  • Offer warm flour or corn tortillas on the side so everyone can create their own fajita wraps.
  • Provide a variety of toppings and condiments to customize each fajita, such as:
    • Sour cream or Mexican crema
    • Guacamole or sliced avocado
    • Pico de gallo or salsa
    • Shredded lettuce or cabbage
    • Diced tomatoes
    • Sliced black olives
    • Pickled jalapeños
    • Hot sauce
• Rice Bowl Style:
  • Serve individual portions of the rice bake in bowls.
  • Top with your favorite fajita toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
  • Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness.
  • Consider adding black beans or refried beans to the bowl for extra protein and fiber.
• Side Dish Accompaniments:
  • While this dish is a complete meal on its own, you can also serve it with complementary side dishes to create a larger feast.
  • Consider these side dish options:
    • A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the bake.
    • Mexican coleslaw for a crunchy and refreshing contrast.
    • Grilled or roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, corn on the cob, or asparagus.
    • Black beans or refried beans as mentioned above, if not already incorporated into the bowls.
    • Tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole for dipping.
• Garnish Ideas:
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped or whole leaves, adds a vibrant touch of color and flavor.
  • Lime wedges are essential for squeezing over the dish just before serving, adding a bright, citrusy zing.
  • Thinly sliced green onions or scallions provide a mild oniony flavor and visual appeal.
  • A dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema adds creaminess and coolness.
  • Shredded cheese, extra Monterey Jack or cheddar, for an even cheesier experience.

Additional Tips for the Best Chicken Fajita and Rice Bake

To elevate your One Dish Chicken Fajita and Rice Bake from good to absolutely amazing, consider these helpful tips:

1. Make Your Own Fajita Seasoning: While store-bought blends are convenient, crafting your own fajita seasoning allows for customization and freshness. A simple homemade blend can be made with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, and salt. Experiment with the ratios to find your perfect flavor profile. Making a larger batch of homemade seasoning and storing it in an airtight container is a great time-saver for future recipes.
2. Don’t Skip the Marinade: Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing it with flavor and tenderizing it. The lime juice in the marinade helps to break down the chicken fibers, resulting in a more tender and juicy final product. Even a 30-minute marinade makes a noticeable difference. For deeper flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.
3. Searing the Chicken Enhances Flavor: Searing the chicken before baking adds a layer of depth and complexity to the dish. The Maillard reaction, which occurs when the chicken browns in the hot skillet, creates hundreds of flavor compounds that wouldn’t be present if the chicken were simply baked without searing. Searing also helps to lock in the juices and prevent the chicken from drying out during baking.
4. Toast the Rice (Optional, but Recommended): For an even nuttier and more flavorful rice, consider toasting it briefly in the skillet before adding the broth. After sautéing the vegetables and searing the chicken, remove the chicken and vegetables temporarily. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted and fragrant. Then, proceed with adding the broth and other ingredients as directed in the recipe. Toasting the rice releases its natural aromas and enhances its texture.
5. Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to adapt the vegetables to your preferences and what you have on hand. Other vegetables that would work well in this dish include:
   • Poblano peppers (for a milder pepper option)
   • Zucchini or summer squash
   • Mushrooms
   • Carrots
   • Red onion instead of yellow onion
   • Black beans or pinto beans (added with the tomatoes and broth)
   • Roasted sweet potatoes or corn (added during the last 15 minutes of baking)

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian or vegan! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken. You can add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or sweet potatoes, to bulk up the dish. For a vegan version, omit the chicken and cheese. You can use a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Consider adding black beans or lentils for added protein.

Q2: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare certain components of this dish in advance. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. You can also chop the vegetables a day ahead and store them in airtight containers. However, it’s best to assemble and bake the dish just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Q3: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount. Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice and requires more liquid. You will likely need to increase the baking time to approximately 45-55 minutes and potentially add an extra 1/2 to 1 cup of chicken broth. Check for doneness by tasting the rice and ensuring it’s tender.

Q4: Is this recipe spicy?

A: This recipe has a mild to moderate level of spice from the fajita seasoning, cayenne pepper (if used), and jalapeño (if used). You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference. For a milder dish, omit the cayenne pepper and jalapeño, and use a mild fajita seasoning blend. For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper, use a spicier fajita seasoning, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Q5: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

A: While this recipe is designed for the oven, you can adapt it for a slow cooker, although the texture will be slightly different. Sauté the vegetables and sear the chicken in a skillet as directed in the recipe. Then, transfer the vegetables, chicken, diced tomatoes, rice, and chicken broth to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the rice is cooked through. Stir in the corn and cilantro during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Sprinkle with cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt.

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