Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that combines all the delicious flavors of chicken fajitas with the convenience of a burrito bowl, then this Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl recipe is perfect for you.
It’s a one-bowl wonder that’s packed with protein, veggies, and bold flavors, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this recipe has you covered.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowls
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken strips. In a large bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb all the flavors. If you have more time, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken strips and cook for 5-7 minutes, until they are cooked through and slightly charred around the edges. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Burrito Bowls
Now it’s time to assemble your burrito bowls. Start by adding a generous scoop of cooked rice to the bottom of each bowl. Next, layer on the black beans, corn, and the chicken fajita mixture. Top with sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, a spoonful of salsa, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese if using.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Your Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowls are ready to be served! This dish is perfect as is, but you can also customize it with your favorite toppings, such as jalapeños, pickled onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in every bite.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowls
Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh bell peppers, juicy chicken breasts, and ripe avocados will make a big difference in the taste of your burrito bowls.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
To keep the chicken tender and juicy, avoid overcooking it. The chicken should be cooked through but still moist, with a slight char on the outside for that classic fajita flavor.
Customize to Your Taste
Feel free to customize these burrito bowls to suit your taste. If you like it spicy, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Prefer more veggies? Add some sautéed mushrooms or zucchini to the mix.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowls
Serve with Tortilla Chips
For a fun and crunchy side, serve your burrito bowls with tortilla chips. They’re perfect for scooping up any extra filling or enjoying with salsa and guacamole on the side.
Pair with a Margarita
Nothing complements the bold flavors of a Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl quite like a classic margarita. The lime and tequila bring out the zesty flavors in the dish.
Add a Side of Mexican Street Corn
Mexican street corn, or elote, is a great side dish that pairs wonderfully with the flavors in this burrito bowl. The creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy corn is a delicious addition to the meal.
Variations on Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowls
Steak Fajita Burrito Bowls
If you prefer beef over chicken, swap out the chicken for thinly sliced steak. Marinate and cook it in the same way for a hearty, flavorful alternative.
Vegetarian Fajita Burrito Bowls
For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and load up on extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. You can also add tofu or tempeh for extra protein.
Shrimp Fajita Burrito Bowls
For a seafood twist, use shrimp instead of chicken. Shrimp cooks quickly, so make sure to add it to the skillet after the vegetables have started to soften.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowls
Chicken
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, which support energy production.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are loaded with vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function and skin health. They also add a burst of color and sweetness to the dish.
Black Beans
Black beans are packed with fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. They’re also a good source of plant-based protein and important minerals like iron and magnesium.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowls are great for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat the components and assemble your bowl.
Q2: What can I use instead of rice?
If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can substitute cauliflower rice for the regular rice. Quinoa or farro are also great alternatives if you want to mix things up.
Q3: Can I freeze the chicken fajita mixture?
Yes, the cooked chicken and vegetables can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q4: How do I add more heat to the dish?
If you like your burrito bowls spicy, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade. You can also top the finished bowl with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Q5: Can I use store-bought fajita seasoning?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use a pre-made fajita seasoning mix instead of making your own. Just be mindful of the salt content, as some store-bought seasonings can be quite salty.
Conclusion
This Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl recipe is a flavorful, healthy, and versatile meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With its bold spices, tender chicken, and fresh toppings, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, these burrito bowls are sure to impress. Customize them with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy a delicious meal that brings the flavors of a classic chicken fajita into a convenient, all-in-one bowl.
Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl Recipe
If you're looking for a dish that combines all the delicious flavors of chicken fajitas with the convenience of a burrito bowl, then this Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl recipe is perfect for you. It’s a one-bowl wonder that’s packed with protein, veggies, and bold flavors, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ¼ teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
- 3 teaspoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon tapioca starch
- 3 bell peppers any color
- ½ large red onion
- FOR SERVING
- 2 cups cilantro lime rice
- 1 can black beans drained and rinshed
- 2 cups chopped lettuce
- ½ cup pico de gallo
- ½ cup chipotle aioli
Instructions
Pound the chicken to about 1/4-1/2 inch thick. I used two large breasts and cut them in half lengthwise and cooked just like that (and cut after cooking), but you can also cut into strips before seasoning.
Combine all seasonings and tapioca in a bowl.
Coat the chicken in the seasonings.
Add the olive oil to a skillet. Once hot, add the chicken and cook on each side for about 4-5 minutes or until cooked through.
Set aside on a plate and cut into strips if you haven't already.
Add the sliced red onion and peppers to the same skillet and saute until golden brown, about 7-8 minutes. Add more oil if you notice anything sticking.
Add the chicken back in and saute for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Assemble your bowls with a base of rice/lettuce, then add in the chicken/pepper mix, black beans, pico de gallo and chipotle aioli.
If you aren't a chipotle fan, you can use my cashew queso and cilantro lime crema instead.
Also delicious with fresh guacamole and cilantro on top! Enjoy!