Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl

This Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl brings the bold flavors of fajitas into a healthy, satisfying bowl format. Juicy chicken tenderloins are seasoned with homemade fajita spices, roasted with peppers and onions, and served over fluffy cilantro-lime rice, fresh lettuce, creamy smashed avocado, and sour cream. It’s a quick, vibrant meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed: Homemade fajita seasoning adds bold, smoky spice to every bite.
• Easy Sheet Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup and fast assembly.
• Customizable: Adapt it with your favorite protein or grain.
• Wholesome & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, veggies, and fresh toppings.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Components can be made ahead and assembled as needed.

Ingredients

For the Fajita Bowl:

• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ pounds chicken tenderloins
• 1 batch of chicken fajita seasoning (see below)
• 3 cups cooked white rice (from 1 cup uncooked rice)
• Juice from ½ lime
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
• 6 cups lettuce
• Sour cream (to serve)
• 2 smashed avocados

Chicken Fajita Seasoning:

• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon table salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

Directions

Preheat and Prepare Vegetables

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Slice 2 bell peppers and 1 onion into thin strips.
3. Place them on a sheet pan, drizzle with 1½ tablespoons olive oil, and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt. Toss to coat and spread into an even layer.

Season the Chicken

4. In a small bowl, combine all fajita seasoning ingredients:
   • 2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder.
5. Place chicken tenderloins (1½ lbs) in a bowl. Add the seasoning mix and remaining 1½ tablespoons olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.

Roast the Chicken and Vegetables

6. Arrange the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables on the sheet pan.
7. Bake for 20–24 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature and is golden at the edges.

Cook the Rice

8. While the chicken bakes, prepare 1 cup white rice according to package instructions.
9. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in juice from ½ lime and 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro.

Assemble the Bowls

10. In individual bowls, add a base of lettuce (about 1½ cups per serving).
11. Top with a generous scoop of cilantro-lime rice, roasted chicken, and vegetables.
12. Finish each bowl with a spoonful of smashed avocado and a dollop of sour cream.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Marinate the chicken: Let the chicken sit in seasoning for 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
• Add toppings: Try shredded cheese, pico de gallo, jalapeños, or salsa.
• Swap the grain: Use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for variety.
• Go vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or roasted mushrooms and black beans.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm tortillas on the side for extra fajita flavor.
• Add a lime wedge for squeezing over the top.
• Pair with a mango salsa or corn salad for a summery side.
• Makes a great lunch meal prep option—store ingredients separately and assemble before eating.

Storage / Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze the chicken and rice portions for up to 1 month. Thaw before reheating.
• Do not freeze fresh toppings like avocado or lettuce.

FAQs

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the rice, chicken, and vegetables ahead and store separately. Assemble when ready to serve.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Yes, toss with fajita seasoning and sauté briefly or bake with the vegetables.

Can I grill the chicken instead of roasting?
Absolutely. Grill the seasoned chicken and sauté the vegetables separately on the stovetop.

What’s a good dairy-free alternative to sour cream?
Try unsweetened coconut yogurt or a squeeze of lime for creaminess and tang.

Is this recipe spicy?
It’s mild by default. Add cayenne or hot sauce if you want heat.

Conclusion

The Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl is a colorful, delicious, and healthy one-bowl meal that brings fajita flavor home. It’s a balanced mix of juicy chicken, roasted veggies, fresh toppings, and zesty rice—perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even casual entertaining. This flexible and satisfying recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again!

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