Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl

Name: Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lime; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup black beans, drained; 1 avocado, diced; 1 cup corn, canned or fresh; 1 cup salsa; 1/2 cup sour cream; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Speedy Plates

I love making a Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl because it's the perfect way to blend fresh flavors and hearty ingredients into one satisfying dish. The combination of spiced chicken, colorful peppers, and fluffy rice means every bite is packed with flavor and texture. Preparing this bowl allows me to customize each layer according to my preferences, making it a fun dish for everyone. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, delivering a delicious meal in just 30 minutes.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-23T13:27:19.975Z

When I first tried creating a Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl at home, I was amazed at how vibrant and fulfilling it turned out. The key is to marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices for just a little while; this not only elevates the flavor but also keeps it juicy. I also experimented with different toppings, discovering that a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime really brings everything together.

I also found that controlling the cooking times for the bell peppers made a significant difference. Sautéing them just until they're tender-crisp retains their color and sweetness, adding a delightful contrast to the tender marinated chicken. It’s a comforting, quick meal I always look forward to making!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful and vibrant presentation that pleases the eye.
Customizable toppings for the perfect personal touch.
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights.

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step to infuse the meat with robust flavors. The lime juice not only adds a zesty brightness but also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it juicy. A good marination time is at least 15 minutes, but if you have more time, letting it sit for 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator will create an even deeper flavor profile.

When marinating, consider using a resealable plastic bag. This allows the chicken to be coated evenly with the marinade, ensuring every piece is flavorful. If you don’t have fajita seasoning, you can easily make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a personalized touch.

Choosing and Cooking Your Vegetables

The choice of vegetables not only adds color but also texture and flavor to your Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl. Bell peppers, with their sweetness, complement the chicken perfectly. Use a combination of red, yellow, and green peppers for a visually appealing presentation. When sautéing, keep the heat at medium-high to achieve a slight char on the peppers and onions, which adds depth to the dish.

Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has a golden-brown exterior. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; this can lead to steaming rather than browning. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking. This technique will ensure that you get that coveted caramelized layer that brings so much flavor.

Serving and Storing Tips

When assembling the bowl, layering is key to maintaining texture and flavor. Start with a base of rice, which will absorb the juices from the chicken and salsa. Next, add the black beans, which contribute protein and creaminess. Top with the warm chicken and veggie mix, and then cold, fresh ingredients like corn and avocado. This contrast elevates the overall eating experience.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The components can be reheated in the microwave, but if you want to keep your avocado fresh, add it right before serving. To scale this recipe for meal prep, consider preparing the chicken and rice ahead of time, allowing you to quickly assemble bowls throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Fajitas

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lime

For the Burrito Bowl

2 cups cooked rice
1 cup black beans, drained
1 avocado, diced
1 cup corn, canned or fresh
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup sour cream
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with lime juice, fajita seasoning, and olive oil. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken and Vegetables

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Add sliced bell peppers and onion, sautéing until they are tender but still crisp.

Assemble the Bowl

In bowls, layer cooked rice, black beans, the chicken and vegetable mixture, corn, diced avocado, and salsa. Top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to your burrito bowl. You can also substitute the chicken for beef or tofu for a different protein choice.

Variations to Customize Your Bowl

Feel free to customize your burrito bowl with various toppings to suit your taste. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha. If you're looking for a different protein, try swapping the chicken for steak, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein can be marinated in the same way, ensuring a consistent flavor experience.

You can also switch up the base grains; quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice make excellent alternatives depending on your dietary preferences. Each option will bring a different texture and flavor, so choose what best complements your mood and nutritional goals.

Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Nights

This Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl can be a fantastic option for meal prepping. You can cook the chicken and veggies in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, simply layer everything in a bowl, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. Make sure to keep toppings like avocado and sour cream separate until serving to ensure freshness.

If you want to prepare the entire bowl for grab-and-go lunches, consider using mason jars. Layer them starting with rice on the bottom, followed by black beans, chicken, veggies, corn, salsa, and top with avocado. Shake the jar to mix when ready to eat, and enjoy a fresh meal anywhere.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this bowl vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu and use beans as your protein source.

→ What can I use instead of fajita seasoning?

You can make your own seasoning blend using cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder.

→ Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to assemble your bowl.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.