Easy Chicken Fajita Bowls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings all the bold, zesty flavors of classic chicken fajitas into a fun, build‑your‑own bowl format that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep or casual gatherings. Packed with protein and fresh toppings, it’s satisfying, customizable and easy to make.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Veggies

• 1 poblano pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced

• ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

For the Bowls

• 3 cups steamed white rice

• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 cup charred corn

• 1 cup chopped tomatoes

• Guacamole (about 1 recipe worth)

• Limes for serving

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

• Pico de gallo (optional)

Directions

1. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips, about the size of your finger.

2. In a bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, ground cumin, chili powder and red pepper flakes. Whisk to combine and add the chicken. Let it marinate in the fridge for 1 hour.

3. Heat a large cast iron skillet or heavy pan over high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chicken with the marinade and sauté until fully cooked.

4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the sliced peppers and onions to the skillet and sauté until tender and slightly charred.

5. Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and toss to combine.

6. To assemble the bowls, divide the steamed rice among bowls, then top with the chicken and veggie mixture, black beans, charred corn, chopped tomatoes, guacamole, lime wedges and cilantro. Add pico de gallo if using.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6 people

• Prep time: 1 hour 5 minutes (includes marinating)

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat.

• Use brown rice, cauliflower rice or cilantro lime rice in place of steamed white rice.

• Substitute pinto beans for black beans.

• Add shredded cheese, sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.

• For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled tofu or sautéed mushrooms.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken fajita bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet until warmed through. If rice becomes dry, sprinkle a little water over it before reheating. Guacamole is best stored separately and added when serving.

FAQs

What makes fajita bowls different from fajitas?

Fajita bowls serve all the classic fajita ingredients over a base like rice or grains without tortillas, making them a bowl meal rather than a handheld wrap.

Can I use frozen vegetables for the fajita mix?

Yes, you can use frozen bell peppers and onions if fresh aren’t available; just sauté until heated through and slightly charred.

How do I keep the chicken tender?

Marinating the chicken for at least an hour helps keep it moist and flavorful when cooked.

Can this recipe be made gluten‑free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten‑free as long as all seasonings and add‑ins don’t contain gluten.

What else can I add to the bowls?

Try adding queso fresco, sliced jalapeños, salsa verde, or pickled red onions for extra flavor.

Is this recipe meal‑prep friendly?

Yes, these bowls are great for meal prep. Store components separately for up to 4 days and assemble before eating.

Can I use other meats?

You can substitute chicken with steak, shrimp or even pork if preferred.

How do I make charred corn?

Charred corn can be made by grilling or sautéing fresh corn until browned, or you can use pre‑charred frozen corn.

What can I serve with fajita bowls?

Serve with tortilla chips, a side salad, or Mexican street corn for a complete meal.

Can I make this spicier?

Yes, add extra chili flakes, jalapeños, or a spicy salsa to increase heat.

Conclusion

These Chicken Fajita Bowls are a flavorful, vibrant meal that brings together marinated chicken, tender peppers and onions, and a rainbow of toppings over a bed of rice. They’re perfect for meal prep, family dinners or casual entertaining, and offer lots of room for customization to suit your tastes.