Chicken Fajita Bowl Recipe
This vibrant Chicken Fajita Bowl recipe combines tender, spiced chicken breast with sautéed bell peppers and onions, served atop cilantro lime rice and fresh lettuce. Topped with black beans, pico de gallo, and chipotle aioli, this dish is a colorful, flavorful, and satisfying meal perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
- Author: Rico
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
- 3 teaspoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon tapioca starch
Vegetables and Additions
- 3 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1/2 large red onion, sliced
- 2 cups cilantro lime rice
- 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 2 cups chopped lettuce
- 1/2 cup pico de gallo
- 1/2 cup chipotle aioli
- Prepare Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness. You can either cut the large breasts in half lengthwise and cook whole, then slice after cooking, or cut into strips before seasoning.
- Combine Seasonings: In a bowl, mix salt, garlic powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, chili powder, paprika, and tapioca starch thoroughly to create the seasoning blend.
- Coat Chicken: Evenly coat the chicken pieces with the combined seasoning mixture.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until cooked through and nicely browned.
- Set Aside Chicken: Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and slice into strips if not done previously.
- Sauté Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the sliced red onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 7 to 8 minutes until golden brown and tender. Add more olive oil if needed to prevent sticking.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Return the chicken strips to the skillet with the vegetables and sauté together for 1 to 2 minutes to blend flavors.
- Assemble the Bowl: In serving bowls, layer a base of cilantro lime rice and chopped lettuce. Top with the chicken and pepper mixture, black beans, pico de gallo, and drizzle with chipotle aioli.
- Alternative Sauces: If chipotle aioli is not preferred, substitute with cashew queso and cilantro lime crema for different flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Add fresh guacamole and additional cilantro on top if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Chicken Fajita Bowl!
Notes
- For a lower carb version, omit the rice and increase the amount of lettuce and vegetables.
- If you prefer pre-cut chicken strips, you can season and cook them directly without pounding.
- Adjust chili powder and paprika amounts to your spice preference.
- Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Chipotle aioli can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Keywords: chicken fajita bowl, Mexican bowl, fajita recipe, skillet chicken, healthy rice bowl, chipotle aioli, black beans, bell peppers, cilantro lime rice