Name: Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color); 1 medium onion, sliced; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen); 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 avocado, sliced; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Lime wedges for serving; Salsa or hot sauce (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that is bursting with vibrant flavors, textures, and colors, the Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl is exactly what you need. This bowl takes all the best parts of classic fajitas—the smoky, spiced chicken, sweet bell peppers, and sautéed onions—and brings them together with wholesome brown rice, creamy avocado, and a burst of fresh toppings. It’s a simple but satisfying meal that feels both comforting and exciting, perfect for lunch or dinner any day of the week.

Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients makes the Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl incredibly easy to prepare. Each component plays a special role in delivering balanced flavor and texture, from the juicy chicken to the crunchy corn and creamy avocado.

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, tender and perfect for soaking up the fajita spices.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the spices cling to the chicken and aids in cooking the veggies.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a smoky warmth that defines the fajita flavor.
1 teaspoon cumin: Brings a deep, earthy undertone that complements the chili powder beautifully.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Intensifies savory notes without overpowering other flavors.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall aroma and taste subtly.
1 teaspoon paprika: Lends a mild heat and vibrant color to the seasoning mix.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates all the other seasonings.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle bite and sharp edge.
1 bell pepper (sliced): Choose any color for sweetness and crunch.
1 medium onion (sliced): Provides a tender caramelized backdrop for the savory chicken.
2 cups cooked brown rice: Nutty and wholesome, it forms the perfect hearty base.
1 cup black beans (rinsed and drained): Adds fiber and creamy texture.
1 cup corn kernels: Sweet bursts of juicy crunch, fresh or from a can works great.
1 cup diced tomatoes: Brings juicy freshness to every bite.
1/2 cup shredded cheese: Cheddar or Mexican blend melts slightly for gooey richness.
1 avocado (sliced): Creamy and cooling against the spices.
Fresh cilantro for garnish: Adds a bright, herbal finish.
Lime wedges for serving: A zingy squeeze that really wakes up the bowl.
Salsa or hot sauce (optional): For anyone who likes a little extra kick.

How to Make Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful spice blend. Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to this marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Let the chicken sit for 10 minutes to soak in all those lovely spices, which is the key to that unmistakable fajita taste.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

While the chicken marinates, cook the brown rice according to package instructions or using a rice cooker until it’s fluffy and tender. This wholesome rice serves as a hearty base that will soak up all the delicious juices from the chicken and veggies later on.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the marinated chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step helps keep the meat juicy and tender inside your Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add your sliced bell pepper and onion to take advantage of the leftover chicken seasoning and oils. Sauté the veggies for about 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and develop a slight caramelization that adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Veggies

Slice the rested chicken into strips and return it to the skillet with the sautéed bell peppers and onions. Toss everything together so the flavors meld nicely before you start assembling your bowl.

Step 6: Assemble Your Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl

Start each bowl with a generous serving of fluffy brown rice, then layer on the black beans, corn, chicken and vegetable mixture, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese to bring a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Each forkful is pure joy!

Step 7: Add Toppings and Serve

Finish off with creamy avocado slices, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a wedge of lime for squeezing just before eating. Offer salsa or hot sauce on the side for that added pop of heat if you like.

How to Serve Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes make all the difference. The bright green cilantro and creamy avocado slices add freshness and smoothness, while a squeeze of lime adds vibrant acidity that cuts through the richness. These finishing touches elevate your Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl from good to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This bowl is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to make it even more special, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some crunchy tortilla chips. A simple side of pickled jalapeños or a small bowl of guacamole also complements the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner, serve Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowls in colorful ceramic bowls to highlight the vibrant ingredients. Alternatively, layer the components in mason jars for a fun and portable lunch option that looks as good as it tastes. You can also turn it into a vibrant platter for sharing by arranging ingredients separately for a build-your-own style meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the rice, chicken, veggies, and toppings separated helps preserve their individual textures and flavors.

Freezing

For longer storage, cooked chicken and the sautéed vegetables can be frozen in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze the rice and fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro separately to avoid sogginess.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help prevent dryness. Fresh toppings and lime should be added after reheating to keep their freshness.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for the Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl?

Absolutely! While brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, white rice, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa can be great alternatives depending on your preference.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can swap the chicken for tofu, tempeh, or a medley of grilled vegetables to keep that fajita flavor alive while making it meat-free.

How spicy is this Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl?

The spice level is mild to moderate thanks to the chili powder and paprika. If you like it hotter, feel free to add cayenne pepper or serve with spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for meal prep?

Definitely! Cook and portion out all the components for a quick assembly during the week. Just keep fresh ingredients like avocado and cilantro separate until serving.

What other toppings work well with this dish?

Besides avocado and cilantro, consider adding sour cream, pickled onions, jalapeños, or a dollop of guacamole to customize your Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl exactly how you love it.

Final Thoughts

There is something so comforting and exciting about a Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl that truly satisfies all your cravings in one beautiful bowl. With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and balanced nutrition, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your weekly rotation. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to meal that’s bursting with warmth and joy.

Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 22 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl is a vibrant and healthy meal packed with flavorful marinated chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, fluffy brown rice, black beans, corn, fresh tomatoes, and creamy avocado. Topped with shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, it offers a delicious and colorful twist on traditional fajitas, perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Cook the Rice: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the brown rice according to package instructions or in a rice cooker until fluffy and tender.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness.
Combine Chicken and Veggies: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet with the sautéed bell peppers and onions. Mix everything together to combine the flavors evenly.
Assemble the Bowl: Start with a base of fluffy brown rice in each serving bowl. Layer on black beans, corn kernels, the chicken and vegetable mixture, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
Garnish and Serve: Top each bowl with fresh avocado slices, a sprinkle of cilantro, and lime wedges on the side. Serve with salsa or hot sauce if you like an extra kick.

Notes

You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for more moisture and flavor.
Use cauliflower rice to make this dish lower in carbohydrates.
Adjust the seasoning and spice levels according to your taste preferences.
For a vegan or vegetarian version, replace chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh and omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Mexican