I love Mexican food. So when I discovered that I could no longer eat corn, or dairy, or beef (and I've only just now gotten back pintos and avocados), I was pretty upset. Going out to dinner suddenly became much less fun.
But then I started getting creative. A local Mexican restaurant served Fajita Nachos. As per my request, the put all the toppings over rice instead of the usual corn chips. Oh. my. word was it good. Since we can't afford to eat out all the time, I made an effort at approximating the recipe at home. Once again - super good! Here it is:
Chicken Fajita Nachos
2 cups brown rice, uncooked (or 1.5 cups brown rice, .5 cups quinoa)
4 cups water
2 large chicken breasts, diced
1 large onion, sliced
2 sweet red peppers, sliced
2 sweet green peppers, sliced
1 tsp olive oil
1 15 oz can refried beans
1 15 oz can black beans
liberal dash each cilantro, chili powder, cumin
5 ripe avocados
1 large tomato, diced
1 small red onion, diced
juice of 1/2 lime
liberal dash each cilantro, chili powder, cumin
(optional) 1 tbsp mayo
(optional) fresh cilantro to garnish
Combine rice and water in large pot. Bring to boil, then simmer 20 minutes (or until all water is absorbed).
Heat olive oil in large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until sizzling. Add onions and peppers, stirring constantly until just softened and slightly blackened. Remove veggies to serving bowl. Add chicken to hot skillet and stir until cooked through and slightly blackened. Remove to bowl with veggies.
Meanwhile, heat refried beans, black beans, cilantro, chili powder and cumin in medium pot over low heat.
In another bowl, mash avocados, diced red onion, diced tomato, lime juice, cilantro, chili powder and cumin until smooth. (If avocados are slightly under-ripe add 1 tbsp mayo to improve texture).
When all foods are finished, layer on plate. Or, if you're picky like my kiddos, serve separately.
Optional toppings include: shredded cheese, sour cream, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, salsa or swap the chicken for beef or pork. You could also substitute chips for the rice and make real nachos instead!
Easy and yummy and much cheaper than dining out. Enjoy!!
