First, place a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat up until it shimmers but isn’t smoking. This is an essential step to ensure your chicken sears nicely.
Once the oil is hot, add the chicken, red onion, garlic, jalapeño, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Sauté, stirring frequently for about three minutes, until the chicken begins to brown. You’re looking for a nice golden color to develop, which means the flavors are starting to meld.
After the chicken browns, it’s time to add the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, black beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and rice. Stir everything together until well combined. The colors should be vibrant, creating a feast for the eyes!
Next, pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir to ensure it is evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens; the broth adds moisture and flavor.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about five minutes. During this time, the chicken should be fully cooked, and the rice will absorb the delicious flavors.
Once the time is up, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it could use a little more salt or spice, go ahead and sprinkle that in. You want it to be perfect!
Remove the skillet from heat but leave it covered for another five minutes. This resting time allows the liquid to be fully absorbed and results in a more flavorful dish.
Finally, sprinkle the cheese over the top and any additional toppings you desire, such as cilantro, avocado, salsa, corn chips, or sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Fiesta Chicken!
