Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl Recipe

One evening, as I rummaged through the pantry trying to figure out what to make for dinner, I decided to whip up something that combined comfort and zest—a Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl. With a sprinkle of homemade fajita seasoning and a few pantry staples, this easy meal became an instant family favorite!

The kids loved the mix of seasoned chicken, veggies, and fluffy rice, while my husband couldn’t stop raving about how the flavors all came together. Now, this dish is in our regular dinner rotation, and I’m excited for you to try it too.

What Makes My Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl Recipe Unique?

The Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl recipe is all about layering flavors and textures. It’s got everything you love in fajitas—tender chicken, sautéed bell peppers, onions—but instead of tortillas, it’s served over a bed of perfectly seasoned rice.

What makes my version unique is the homemade fajita seasoning, which I tweak to give just the right amount of spice. I also love adding an unexpected ingredient: creamy avocado and a hint of lime juice at the end for that refreshing pop of flavor. It’s easy to make, healthy, and full of flavor.

Ingredients List For Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl at home. These ingredients are all halal and readily available:

For the Chicken Fajitas:

• 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp homemade fajita seasoning (see below)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced

For the Rice:

• 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1/4 tsp turmeric (optional for a slight color and flavor boost)
• Salt to taste

Toppings and Garnish:

• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Sour cream (optional)
• Grated cheddar cheese (optional)

Homemade Fajita Seasoning:

• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this chicken fajita bowl recipe is its flexibility. Here are some easy swaps or additions:

• Rice: You can substitute the white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
• Protein: If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. You can even try shrimp for a different protein option.
• Cheese Alternatives: Instead of cheddar, try using a dairy-free cheese for a lighter option.
• Spice Levels: Adjust the heat by controlling the amount of cayenne pepper in the fajita seasoning. For kids, you may want to reduce it.
• Add-ins: For an extra nutritional boost, add black beans, sweet corn, or even some sautéed spinach to the bowl.

Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking your rice. In a medium pot, add your rice, chicken broth, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix the chicken strips with olive oil, homemade fajita seasoning, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until all the chicken is well-coated.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the bell peppers and onions until they are soft and slightly caramelized—about 7-10 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, cook the seasoned chicken strips over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes, or until fully cooked and browned on the outside. Add the sautéed vegetables back into the skillet and stir to combine.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

To assemble your Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls, start by adding a generous scoop of rice into each bowl. Top with the chicken and veggie mixture. Then, garnish with fresh avocado slices, cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and any other toppings you love like cheese or sour cream.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls

• Overcooking the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink inside.
• Undercooking the Rice: Make sure the rice is fully cooked before serving. A good tip is to let it rest with the lid on for a few minutes after cooking to absorb any remaining moisture.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! The homemade fajita seasoning really ties the flavors together.

Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl Serving and Presentation Tips

To elevate the presentation, serve the Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl in wide, shallow bowls, allowing each component to shine. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of lime crema on top adds a visually appealing and delicious touch. Garnishing with vibrant green cilantro and creamy avocado slices adds a pop of color that makes the dish Instagram-worthy!

How to Serve Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls

This dish can stand alone as a hearty meal, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of tortilla chips and salsa. You can also serve it with a tangy cucumber and lime salad or even a light Mexican street corn salad on the side. It’s a versatile meal that works for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week ahead.

Extra Recipe Tips For Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls

• Meal Prep: These bowls are perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the chicken and veggies in advance, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Just assemble when ready to eat!
• Storage: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or toss the chicken and veggies in a skillet until warm.
• Make it Creamy: Want a creamy twist? Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the rice before serving.

FAQs

What’s the difference between a fajita bowl and a burrito bowl?

A fajita bowl typically focuses on sautéed veggies and seasoned meat, while a burrito bowl includes beans, cheese, and sometimes guacamole and salsa.

How many calories are in a chicken fajita rice bowl?

Depending on the ingredients and portion size, a serving can be around 500-600 calories.

Do you cut chicken before or after cooking fajitas?

It’s best to cut the chicken into strips before cooking for even seasoning and quicker cooking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about a Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl—it’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a must-try. With endless variations, you can make it your own every time. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and make dinnertime something special!