Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These fajita bowls combine all the classic flavors of sizzling chicken fajitas in a simple, bowl-style format that’s great for everyday meals. They’re high in protein, rich in fiber, and filled with fresh veggies. You can make them in under 30 minutes and prep them ahead of time for the week. They’re also incredibly versatile—easy to adapt to your taste or dietary preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Cooked brown or white rice
- Bell peppers (red, green, yellow)
- Onion
- Olive oil
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh lime juice
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Avocado, salsa, or Greek yogurt (optional toppings)
Directions
- In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the fajita seasoning.
- Slice the chicken into thin strips and toss with half of the seasoning and a drizzle of olive oil.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil and sauté the sliced bell peppers and onions with the remaining seasoning until tender-crisp, about 5–6 minutes.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the veggies and stir to combine.
- Assemble the bowls by adding rice as the base, then topping with chicken, peppers, and onions.
- Add your favorite toppings like avocado slices, salsa, Greek yogurt, or fresh cilantro.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb or keto-friendly option.
- Add black beans or corn for more texture and nutrients.
- Swap the protein for shrimp, steak, or tofu.
- Include shredded lettuce or cabbage for a fresh crunch.
- Add shredded cheese or a drizzle of lime crema for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store the chicken, rice, and veggies in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Assemble the bowls just before serving for best texture. Add fresh toppings like avocado after reheating to maintain their freshness.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought fajita seasoning?
Yes, but check the label for added sugars or preservatives if you’re aiming to keep it healthy.
What type of rice is best?
Brown rice adds fiber and nutrients, but white rice or jasmine rice also work well depending on your preference.
Are these good for meal prep?
Absolutely. Prepare the components ahead of time and store them separately for easy assembly throughout the week.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, just skip toppings like cheese or Greek yogurt, or use dairy-free alternatives.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as your seasonings are free of gluten-containing additives.
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and no higher.
Can I grill the chicken and vegetables?
Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor that works great with fajitas. Use skewers or a grill pan for easy handling.
What can I use instead of rice?
Try quinoa, farro, or greens like spinach or romaine for a lighter bowl.
Can I freeze the components?
Cooked chicken and rice freeze well. Avoid freezing the vegetables, as they can get mushy when thawed.
How do I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper to the seasoning or serve with a spicy salsa or hot sauce.
Conclusion
Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Rice are a fresh and filling meal that’s easy to make, customize, and enjoy throughout the week. With tender, flavorful chicken, vibrant veggies, and a base of fluffy rice, these bowls deliver both nutrition and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping meals ahead, this recipe is a go-to for quick, wholesome satisfaction
PrintHealthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Rice
Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Rice are a quick, vibrant, and satisfying meal featuring seasoned chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and rice, topped with fresh garnishes like avocado or Greek yogurt. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
- 2 cups cooked brown or white rice
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Avocado, salsa, or Greek yogurt (optional toppings)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the fajita seasoning.
- Toss sliced chicken with half of the seasoning and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the sliced bell peppers and onion with the remaining seasoning until tender-crisp, about 5–6 minutes.
- Drizzle with fresh lime juice and stir to combine.
- Assemble bowls with rice as the base, topped with chicken, peppers, and onions.
- Garnish with avocado, salsa, Greek yogurt, or chopped cilantro as desired.
Notes
- Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Grill the chicken and veggies for a smoky flavor.
- Keep toppings like avocado and yogurt fresh by adding after reheating.
- Mix in black beans or corn for extra nutrients and texture.
- Adjust spice level by adding cayenne or hot sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg