Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a dinner that bursts with zesty flavors, colorful veggies, and tender grilled chicken, this Chicken Fajita Bowl has your name written all over it. It’s a crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights, casual family gatherings, and meal prep alike. With perfectly seasoned chicken, sautéed peppers, fluffy rice, and vibrant toppings, every bite is a party! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fajita Bowl

Quick & customizable—done in about 30 minutes for effortless dinners.
Loaded with lean protein and fresh, wholesome vegetables.
Meal-prep friendly—make ahead for quick lunches or dinners all week.
Family-friendly flavors everyone will adore.
Gluten-free and easily adaptable for various diets.

Chicken Fajita Bowl Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 lime, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for kick)
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
1 medium red onion, sliced
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup fresh salsa
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
1 avocado, sliced
Optional: sour cream and lime wedges for serving

How To Make Chicken Fajita Bowl

1. Marinate and Prep the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine chicken strips, 1 tbsp olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and let marinate for 10 minutes while you prep the veggies.

2. Sauté Peppers and Onions

Heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced bell peppers and red onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes until veggies become slightly tender yet still vibrant. Remove to a bowl and set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken

Add marinated chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden, slightly caramelized, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat.

4. Assemble Your Chicken Fajita Bowl

To serve, spoon 1/2 cup cooked rice into each bowl. Top with cooked chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, black beans, salsa, cheese, avocado, and cilantro. Add a dollop of sour cream and lime wedge if desired.

Notes for Chicken Fajita Bowl Success

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 30 minutes in the fridge.
Try swapping rice for quinoa, cauliflower rice, or other grains for different textures (EatRight: Whole Grains 101).
Always slice chicken and vegetables evenly for even cooking and the best presentation.

Chicken Fajita Bowl Variations

Low-Carb Bowl: Use cauliflower rice and skip the beans for a lighter option.
Spicy Chipotle Bowl: Add chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to your marinade and top with pickled jalapeños.
Vegan Fajita Bowl: Substitute chicken with portobello mushrooms and skip the cheese/sour cream, using a plant-based alternative.

Essential Equipment for Chicken Fajita Bowl

Large skillet or frying pan
Sharp knife & cutting board
Mixing bowl for marinade
Serving bowls

Chicken Fajita Bowl Storage Instructions

Store leftover chicken, veggies, rice, and toppings separately in airtight containers. They’ll keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat chicken and veggies in the microwave or skillet before assembling. Do not freeze assembled bowls for best texture.

Serving & Pairing Ideas for Chicken Fajita Bowl

Serve with warm tortilla chips and a side of guacamole for a fiesta-style dinner.
Pair with a crisp Mexican lager or sparkling lime water.
Add a side of Mexican street corn (elote) for extra flair.

Pro Tips for a Chicken Fajita Bowl That Pops

Sear the chicken and veggies over high heat for that irresistible char and smoky flavor.
Prep all your toppings ahead for speedy assembly and less weeknight stress.
For detailed safe cooking times and temperatures, check the FDA’s food safety guide.

Chicken Fajita Bowl FAQ

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?: Absolutely! Chicken thighs add juicy flavor and work perfectly in this recipe—just adjust cooking time as needed.
2. How do I make my Chicken Fajita Bowl dairy-free?: Omit the cheese and sour cream, or use your favorite dairy-free alternatives for a completely dairy-free dish.
3. Is this Chicken Fajita Bowl good for meal prep?: Yes! Prepare the components ahead and store separately for easy, fresh assembly throughout the week.