Fajita Chili
If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, look no further than Fajita Chili. This delightful blend of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty spices will warm you from the inside out. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleasing meal for gatherings, Fajita Chili is easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
Reasons to Love Fajita Chili
Fajita Chili is a dish that checks all the boxes. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:
- Flavorful Fusion: The combination of traditional fajita spices and hearty chili base creates a unique and satisfying flavor profile.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking process, you can whip up this meal in no time.
- Nutritious: Packed with lean protein from chicken and fiber from beans, this chili is both wholesome and filling.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Great for Meal Prep: Fajita Chili stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prepping for the week ahead.
What Goes Into Fajita Chili
To create this delicious Fajita Chili, you’ll need a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 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
Before You Start: Equipment
Make sure you have the following kitchen equipment ready before you dive into this recipe:
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the chili evenly.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping your veggies and chicken.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring and mixing the ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Cooking spoon: For serving the finished chili.
Fajita Chili: How It’s Done
Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up your Fajita Chili:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss the chicken strips with the Mexican seasoning blend until well coated.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In your large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the pot and add the seasoned chicken strips. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir well to combine with the chicken and vegetables.
Step 5: Incorporate the Rice
Add the Knorr Fiesta Sides Spanish Rice to the pot, mixing it in thoroughly. Allow it to cook as per the package instructions.
Step 6: Add the Beans
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the drained and rinsed pinto or black beans. Pour in the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth to achieve your desired chili consistency.
Step 7: Simmer and Serve
Let the Fajita Chili simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings if desired, such as avocado, cilantro, or lime wedges.
How to Make It Lighter
If you’re looking to lighten up your Fajita Chili without sacrificing flavor, consider these tips:
- Use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option with added flavor.
- Substitute half the beans with extra vegetables like zucchini or corn.
- Reduce the amount of oil used for sautéing or opt for a non-stick cooking spray.
- Choose a lower-carb rice alternative, such as cauliflower rice, for a lighter base.
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
Fajita Chili is incredibly versatile, and you can adapt it based on what you have in your pantry. Here are a few behind-the-scenes tips:
- Feel free to swap the chicken for lean ground turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Experiment with different types of beans; black beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas work wonderfully.
- Add in spices like cumin or smoked paprika to deepen the chili flavor.
- For a kick of heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Fajita Chili is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to handle leftovers:
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious on the second day. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Use leftover chili as a filling for tacos or burritos.
- Serve it over a bed of quinoa for a hearty lunch option.
- Add it to a baked potato for a tasty twist.
Popular Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator beforehand for even cooking. If using frozen, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I make Fajita Chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method will yield a wonderfully melded flavor.
Is this chili spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your preferences. The Mexican seasoning blend can add some heat, but you can always add more spices or fresh jalapeños for a spicier kick.
What toppings go well with Fajita Chili?
Some great toppings include shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, fresh cilantro, or lime wedges. You can customize it to suit your taste!
The Takeaway
Fajita Chili is a delightful dish that brings a touch of fiesta to your dinner table. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The best part is its versatility; you can easily adapt it to your liking, whether you prefer it spicier or lighter. Enjoy it fresh, as leftovers, or incorporate it into other meals for a fun twist. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a bowl of Fajita Chili that will have your taste buds dancing!
Fajita Chili
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken strips with the Mexican seasoning blend until well coated.
- In your large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent.
- Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the pot and add the seasoned chicken strips. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
- Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir well to combine with the chicken and vegetables.
- Add the Knorr Fiesta Sides Spanish Rice to the pot, mixing it in thoroughly. Allow it to cook as per the package instructions.
- Once the rice is cooked, stir in the drained and rinsed pinto or black beans. Pour in the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth to achieve your desired chili consistency.
- Let the Fajita Chili simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings if desired, such as avocado, cilantro, or lime wedges.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Use leftover chili as a filling for tacos or burritos.
