If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances the bold flavors of fajitas with the heartiness of chili, then this Fajita Chili recipe is your new favorite weeknight meal. It’s packed with tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a blend of spices that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make, and it comes together in one pot! Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a festive gathering, this dish will warm you up and satisfy your cravings.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes this Fajita Chili truly special is the combination of traditional chili ingredients with the classic flavors of fajitas. The use of boneless skinless chicken breasts ensures a lean protein source, while the blend of Mexican seasonings brings that authentic taste to the forefront. The addition of pinto or black beans adds creaminess, while the vibrant bell peppers provide a crunchy texture. This dish is not just filling; it’s also an explosion of flavors that will have your family asking for seconds!
The Essentials
To make this delicious Fajita Chili, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 1 tbsp Mexican seasoning blend, sodium-free
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 red and/or green bell peppers, chopped
- 3 2 oz low-sodium chicken broth, divided
- 1 package Knorr Fiesta Sides Spanish Rice
- 4 cups low-sodium pinto beans and/or black beans, drained and rinsed
Equipment Breakdown
To prepare this Fajita Chili, you will need a few essential kitchen tools:
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the chili evenly.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping your vegetables and chicken.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring the ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of your spices and oils.
Stepwise Method: Fajita Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and sprinkle with the Mexican seasoning blend. Sauté until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and chopped bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Pour in 2 cups of the low-sodium chicken broth and stir well. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Add Rice and Beans
Stir in the package of Knorr Fiesta Sides Spanish Rice and the remaining chicken broth. Then, add the drained and rinsed pinto or black beans. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Simmer the Chili
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the Fajita Chili simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the chili is done simmering, give it a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or shredded cheese.
Seasonal Serving Ideas
To elevate your Fajita Chili experience, consider these seasonal serving ideas:
- Top with fresh avocado slices and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing touch.
- Serve with warm tortillas or tortilla chips for dipping.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
Errors to Dodge
While making your Fajita Chili, be mindful of these common pitfalls:
- Overcooking the chicken can lead to a dry texture; ensure it’s just cooked through.
- Don’t skip rinsing the beans; this helps reduce sodium and improves flavor.
- Using too much seasoning can overpower the dish; measure carefully!
- Allowing the chili to simmer for too long can make the rice overly mushy.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This Fajita Chili is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to make the most of it:
You can prepare the chili ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If you want to make it even further in advance, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Quick Questions
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Is it necessary to use low-sodium chicken broth?
Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the salt level in your Fajita Chili, making it healthier. Regular broth can be used, but taste and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, corn, or even diced tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
What toppings go well with this chili?
Some great toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, or crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
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Bring It Home
This Fajita Chili is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Bursting with flavor and loaded with wholesome ingredients, it’s a dish that you can feel good about serving to your family or sharing with friends. With its quick preparation and simple cooking process, this chili is perfect for any day of the week. Gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy a comforting bowl of Fajita Chili that will have everyone coming back for more!
Fajita Chili
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and sprinkle with the Mexican seasoning blend. Sauté until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and chopped bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Pour in 2 cups of the low-sodium chicken broth and stir well. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in the package of Knorr Fiesta Sides Spanish Rice and the remaining chicken broth. Add the drained and rinsed pinto or black beans. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the Fajita Chili simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Once the chili is done simmering, give it a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or shredded cheese.
Notes
- Top with fresh avocado slices and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing touch.
- Serve with warm tortillas or tortilla chips for dipping.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
