04 May 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
4 chicken breasts
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup brown rice
1/2 cup green pepper
1 onion
1 cup sweet corn
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp sugar
2 tsp lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
1 fl oz white wine
The Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl is a delicious and nutritious meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. With a combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful spices, this dish brings a taste of Tex-Mex cuisine to your table. The brown rice serves as a hearty base, while the peppers, corn, and onions add a delightful crunch and sweetness. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
1. Rinse 1 cup of brown rice under cold water.
2. Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Generally, this involves simmering the rice in 2 cups of water, covered, for about 30-40 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
1. Season 4 chicken breasts with a dash of salt and black pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
1. In the same skillet, add the chopped green pepper and onion.
2. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the sweet corn to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until heated through.
4. Prepare the Fajita Spice Mix:
1. In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, and 2 tsp sugar. Mix well.
5. Combine Ingredients:
1. Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Sprinkle the fajita spice mix over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
3. Add 2 tsp of lime juice and 1 fl oz of white wine to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Prepare the Dressing:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil and additional lime juice as needed (optional) until well combined.
7. Assemble the Rice Bowl:
1. Divide the cooked brown rice evenly among four bowls.
2. Top each bowl with the chicken and vegetable mixture.
3. Drizzle a bit of the prepared dressing over each bowl.
8. Serve:
1. Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or avocado slices for added flavor.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy your Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl!
Tips:
- Marinate the chicken breasts in the olive oil, lime juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavor.
- Cook the brown rice in advance to save time. You can refrigerate it for up to three days before using it in the recipe.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for cooking the chicken and vegetables to get a nice char and enhance the fajita flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or add more vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
- Garnish the final dish with fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a fresh burst of flavor.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl, a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked brown rice makes this meal a fulfilling and satisfying choice. Serve it hot and garnish with your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or cilantro for an extra layer of flavor. Bon appétit!