Fajita Chili, a delectable medley of flavors, is a dish that combines the warmth of chili and the zesty goodness of fajitas together with knorr rice sides. It is perfect for those who love to experiment with flavors and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal.
The Knorr Fiesta Sides Spanish Rice is the key ingredient that might not be commonly found in your pantry. This rice blend is a flavorful addition to the dish and can be found in the rice or international aisle of most supermarkets.
Fajita Chili Recipe Ingredients Featuring Knorr Rice Sides
Chicken breasts: This forms the base of the protein in this dish, you can use both boneless and skinless.
Mexican seasoning blend: A mix of spices that gives the fajita its distinct taste.
Olive oil: Used to saute the chicken, vegetables and for cooking the rice.
Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish.
Bell peppers: They add a nice crunch and color to the chili.
Chicken broth: Used for cooking the rice and adds flavor to the chili.
Knorr® Fiesta Sides™ Spanish Rice: This gives the dish its unique, flavorful rice component.
Beans: Pinto and black beans are added for extra protein and texture.
One reader, Korie Marsh says:
This fajita chili recipe with Knorr rice sides is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the dish is so easy to make. The combination of the Spanish rice and tender chicken with the beans and peppers is simply delicious. It's become a family favorite in our household!
Cooking Techniques for Fajita Chili Recipe
How to cook the chicken: Season the chicken with the Mexican seasoning blend and cook in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat with olive oil until it is cooked through, about 5 minutes.
How to prepare the Knorr® Fiesta Sides™ Spanish Rice: In the same pan, heat the remaining olive oil, add 2 cups of chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Then add the Knorr® Fiesta Sides™ Spanish Rice and cook according to package directions, covering and simmering for 7 minutes.
How to incorporate the chicken, onions, and peppers: After preparing the rice, stir in the cooked chicken, onions, and peppers along with the beans and remaining chicken broth. Bring to a low boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
How to serve the fajita chili: Serve the fajita chili with optional toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and tortilla strips.
How To Make Fajita Chili with Knorr Rice Sides
Tender shredded chicken, soft pinto beans, and Spanish rice makes up this hearty and filling fajita chili meal! Whip up a serving in just under one hour.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbchicken breasts,boneless skinless, cut into thin strips
- 1tbspMexican seasoning blend,sodium free
- 2tbspolive oil,divided
- 1medium onion,diced
- 2red bell peppers,and/or green, chopped
- 32ozchicken broth,low-sodium, divided
- 1pkgKnorr® Fiesta Sides™ Spanish Rice
- 4cupspinto beans,low-sodium, and/or black beans, drained and rinsed
Instructions
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In a large saucepan or Dutch-oven set over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and stir occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until the chicken is cooked.
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Add the bell pepper and onions, cook for 3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
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Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in same pan, add 2 cups of the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
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Add the Knorr® Fiesta Sides™ – Spanish Rice and prepare according to package directions by covering and simmering for 7 minutes.
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Stir in the chicken/onion and pepper mix, along with the beans and remaining chicken broth. Bring to a low boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
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Serve with sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, lime wedges and tortilla strips, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 707.22kcal
- Fat: 15.11g
- Saturated Fat: 3.47g
- Trans Fat: 0.08g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.37g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.85g
- Carbohydrates: 93.63g
- Fiber: 21.17g
- Sugar: 7.56g
- Protein: 48.07g
- Cholesterol: 52.92mg
- Sodium: 281.93mg
- Calcium: 172.95mg
- Potassium: 2236.42mg
- Iron: 7.93mg
- Vitamin A: 82.90µg
- Vitamin C: 60.51mg
Expert Tip for Enhancing Fajita Chili Flavors
When cooking the chicken, ensure that it is fully cooked before adding the bell peppers and onions. This will prevent the vegetables from becoming overcooked and losing their crunch. Additionally, when preparing the Knorr® Fiesta Sides™ - Spanish Rice, be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan. This will also ensure that the rice is evenly cooked. Lastly, simmering the chili for 10 minutes allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more robust and flavorful dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Fajita Chili with Knorr Rice Sides
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cooked beans: Utilize canned or pre-cooked beans to cut down on cooking time and preparation.
One-pot wonder: Opt for a single pot or pan to minimize clean-up and streamline the cooking process.
Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and freeze the extra for a quick and convenient meal in the future.
Efficient chopping: Master the art of efficient chopping to speed up the prep process and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Fajita Chili with Knorr Rice Sides Recipe
chicken breasts - Substitute with sliced seitan: Seitan is a great plant-based alternative that has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well when cooked in the fajita chili.
mexican seasoning blend - Substitute with homemade taco seasoning: You can create your own seasoning blend using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for a customized flavor profile.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle depth to the fajita chili.
red and/or green bell peppers - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers offer a slightly smoky flavor and mild heat, complementing the fajita chili while adding a unique twist to the dish.
low-sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian-friendly alternative, providing a rich base for the fajita chili.
knorr® fiesta sides™ spanish rice - Substitute with homemade spanish rice: Prepare your own Spanish rice using white rice, tomato sauce, and seasonings for a fresh and customizable alternative to the packaged mix.
low-sodium pinto beans and black beans - Substitute with canned kidney beans and navy beans: Kidney beans and navy beans offer a similar texture and taste, adding variety to the fajita chili while maintaining a hearty bean base.
Presentation Tips for Serving Fajita Chili
Elevate the plating: When presenting this fajita chili recipe, focus on creating an aesthetically pleasing arrangement on the plate. Ensure that the colors of the dish pop, and use the ingredients as garnishes to add visual appeal.
Incorporate texture: Introduce elements that provide a contrast in texture, such as crispy tortilla strips or a sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro, to add depth to the dish.
Emphasize balance: Pay attention to the balance of flavors and colors on the plate. Ensure that each component of the dish complements the others, creating a harmonious and visually striking presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate and focus on creating a clean, sophisticated presentation.
Highlight the vibrant colors: Showcase the natural vibrancy of the ingredients, such as the colorful bell peppers and the rich hues of the chili, to create an eye-catching and appetizing presentation.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a drizzle of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice to add artistic flair to the presentation, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.
Create a focal point: Arrange the components of the dish in a way that draws attention to a focal point, such as the beautifully plated chicken and rice, to captivate the diners' eyes.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant and high-quality serving ware that complements the dish, elevating the overall presentation and creating a luxurious dining experience.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Fajita Chili
- Large saucepan or dutch-oven: A large, deep cooking pot used for making soups, stews, and chili.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, blunt blade, used for mixing, spreading, and turning food.
- Cutting board: A durable board on which to place material for cutting.
- Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife with a broad and sharp blade, used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
- Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Utensils used to measure the volume of liquid or bulk solid cooking ingredients.
- Can opener: A tool used to open metal cans.
- Stirring spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Ladle: A type of serving spoon used for soup, stew, or other foods.
- Tongs: A kitchen utensil used to grip and lift objects instead of holding them directly with hands.
- Knife: A tool with a cutting edge or blade, often used for preparing ingredients.
- Grater: A kitchen utensil with sharp-edged holes used to shred food into fine pieces.
- Strainer: A device used for separating solid from liquid.
- Cutting board: A durable board on which to place material for cutting.
- Can opener: A tool used to open metal cans.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for boiling or stewing foods.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients.
- Serving bowls: Bowls used for serving food.
- Serving spoon: A large spoon used for serving food.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Fajita Chili
- Allow the fajita chili to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled chili to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
- If you plan to freeze the chili, consider portioning it out into individual serving sizes for easier thawing and reheating later.
- Use freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags to store the chili in the freezer. If using bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- When stored properly in the freezer, the fajita chili with Knorr rice sides will maintain its best quality for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat the frozen chili, first, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, transfer the thawed chili to a saucepan and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through and steaming hot.
- If the reheated chili appears too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency to your liking.
- Avoid freezing the chili with any toppings like sour cream or shredded cheese, as these are best added fresh when serving the reheated chili.
How To Reheat Leftover Fajita Chili
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover fajita chili to a saucepan and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the chicken, vegetables, and rice are evenly heated without overcooking or drying out.
Microwave method: place the leftover fajita chili in a microwave-safe container, cover it with a lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape), and microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chili, as this can cause the rice to become mushy and the chicken to dry out.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover fajita chili to an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it is heated through. This method is ideal if you have a large quantity of leftover chili and want to reheat it all at once.
Slow cooker method: if you have a slow cooker or crockpot, you can use it to reheat your leftover fajita chili. Simply transfer the chili to the slow cooker, set it to low heat, and let it warm up for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is perfect for keeping the chili warm for an extended period, such as during a party or gathering.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the fajita chili well to ensure that the chicken, vegetables, and rice are evenly distributed and heated throughout. If the chili seems too thick after reheating, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen it up and restore its original consistency.
Interesting Trivia About Fajita Chili
The fajita chili recipe with Knorr rice sides is a delicious and convenient meal option that combines the flavors of traditional fajitas with the heartiness of chili. It's a great way to enjoy a comforting and satisfying dish with a Mexican twist.
Budget-Friendly Fajita Chili Recipe
The fajita chili recipe with Knorr rice sides is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken breasts, bell peppers, and beans, are affordable and readily available. The use of Knorr Fiesta Sides™ Spanish Rice adds a flavorful and budget-friendly element to the dish. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20, making it a reasonable option for a satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This Fajita Chili Recipe Healthy?
The fajita chili recipe with Knorr rice sides has some healthy elements, but there's room for improvement. Here's a breakdown:
Healthy aspects:
- Chicken breast is a lean protein source
- Bell peppers and onions provide vitamins and fiber
- Using low-sodium chicken broth and beans helps control salt intake
Less healthy aspects:
- The Mexican seasoning blend and Knorr rice sides may contain added sugars, salt, and preservatives
- The recipe doesn't include a significant source of leafy greens or other nutrient-dense vegetables
- Depending on portion sizes, this dish could be high in calories
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the Mexican seasoning blend for a homemade mix using dried herbs and spices like cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder to control sodium and avoid additives
- Replace the Knorr rice sides with brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients
- Increase the vegetable content by adding diced tomatoes, zucchini, or carrots to the mix
- Use a controlled amount of olive oil, or opt for cooking spray to reduce the calorie density
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables to boost the overall nutrient profile of the meal
- Choose reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, or opt for avocado slices as a healthier topping
By making these adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the fajita chili while still enjoying its delicious flavors. Remember, balance and moderation are key to a healthy diet, so be mindful of portion sizes and consider this dish as part of a varied meal plan.
Editor's Opinion on This Fajita Chili Recipe
The fajita chili recipe with Knorr rice sides is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and savory beans creates a hearty and satisfying dish. The use of Knorr® Fiesta Sides™ Spanish Rice adds a delicious and convenient twist, infusing the chili with authentic Spanish flavors. The addition of Mexican seasoning and aromatic onions elevates the overall taste profile. This recipe offers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, making it a wholesome and fulfilling meal. It's a versatile dish that can be customized with various toppings, adding a fun and interactive element to the dining experience.
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Why trust this Fajita Chili with Knorr Rice Sides Recipe:
This recipe is a delicious fusion of classic chili flavors and vibrant fajita ingredients, creating a mouthwatering dish that's sure to impress. The use of mexican seasoning blend infuses the chicken with authentic flavors, while the addition of bell peppers and onions adds a pop of color and freshness. The incorporation of knorr® fiesta sides™ spanish rice brings a convenient and flavorful element to the dish, enhancing the overall taste and texture. With the combination of pinto beans and black beans, this recipe offers a hearty and nutritious meal that's perfect for any occasion.
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