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Easy Flavor-Packed Chicken Fajita Bowl

chicken fajita bowl - featured image

A quick and healthy chicken fajita bowl featuring smoky spices, vibrant bell peppers, and a fresh lime finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual lunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Optional toppings: avocado slices or guacamole, sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack), fresh lime wedges, pickled jalapeños

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add thinly sliced chicken breasts and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  2. While chicken marinates, slice red, green, and yellow bell peppers and onion into thin strips.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken in a single layer and cook 4-5 minutes on one side until browned. Flip and cook another 3-5 minutes until cooked through and slightly charred. Remove chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil if needed. Add sliced peppers and onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes until tender but still crisp. Season with salt and a pinch of smoked paprika.
  5. Divide cooked brown rice or quinoa among bowls. Top with sautéed veggies and chicken strips. Garnish with chopped cilantro and optional toppings as desired.
  6. Squeeze fresh lime wedge over the bowl before serving.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 10 minutes for best flavor; longer if possible. Slice chicken thinly against the grain for tenderness. Preheat skillet well to get a good sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Cook rice or quinoa ahead to save time. Reheat leftovers in a skillet to maintain texture.

Nutrition

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