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Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls Recipe

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3.8 from 14 reviews

This Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls recipe is a vibrant, flavorful dish featuring marinated and seared chicken tenders served over cilantro lime rice with charred bell peppers, onions, black beans, corn, and creamy homemade guacamole. Perfect for a quick, nutritious dinner packed with fresh ingredients and balanced flavors, ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 1 lb chicken tenders or 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for chicken)
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Fajita Vegetables

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for veggies)
  • 1 green bell pepper, de-seeded and sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, de-seeded and sliced
  • 1 large red onion, sliced
  • 1 large garlic clove, minced
  • A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

Cilantro Lime Rice

  • 1 cup long-grain rice or 2 packages frozen rice (4 servings)
  • ½ cup cilantro, chopped
  • ½ tsp lime zest
  • Juice of 1 lime

Guacamole

  • 2 medium avocados, mashed
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • 2 tbsp red onion, minced
  • 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste

Beans and Corn

  • 1 ½ cups frozen corn
  • 1–2 cups cooked black or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings (Optional)

  • Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • Shredded cheese
  • Chopped romaine lettuce
  • Pico de gallo
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Jalapeño slices
  • Extra lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice: Prepare the rice according to package instructions or heat frozen rice bags. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro while the rice is still hot to infuse fresh flavor.
  2. Make the Guacamole: In a bowl, mash the avocados and mix in lime juice, minced red onion, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Cover and refrigerate to keep fresh while preparing other ingredients.
  3. Season the Chicken: Combine cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Coat the chicken tenders evenly with this spice blend.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add olive or avocado oil. Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until a deep smoky crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
  5. Cook the Fajita Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil and sauté the sliced onions, green and yellow bell peppers, garlic, and a pinch of salt with some chopped cilantro over medium-high heat. Let cook undisturbed for 3–5 minutes to develop a char, then toss and cook until vegetables are tender but still crisp. Finish by squeezing fresh lime juice over the veggies and set aside.
  6. Warm the Beans: Add the drained and rinsed black or pinto beans to the skillet on low heat, seasoning with salt and stirring to pick up remaining pan flavors, heating thoroughly.
  7. Warm the Corn: Heat the frozen corn either in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, layer cilantro lime rice followed by sliced blackened chicken, charred fajita vegetables, warm beans, and corn. Top with dollops of guacamole, sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, chopped romaine, pico de gallo, fresh cilantro, and jalapeño slices. Finish with extra lime wedges for squeezing over the bowls before eating.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase cayenne pepper or add jalapeño slices to the chicken seasoning.
  • Use frozen rice for a quicker meal without compromising texture and flavor.
  • Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain juices and enhance tenderness.
  • Customize toppings based on preference or dietary restrictions.
  • Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Find it online: https://recipefeastful.com/healthy-chicken-fajita-bowls-recipe/