Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and vibrant meal that’s easy to prepare, chicken fajita bowls are the perfect choice. Bursting with flavor from marinated chicken and fresh sautéed vegetables, these bowls are served over a hearty base of rice and pinto beans. Top them off with cheese, pico de gallo, guacamole, and a drizzle of cilantro ranch dressing for an irresistibly satisfying dish that can easily be customized to suit your tastes.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Chicken:
– 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Juice of 1 lime
For the Vegetables:
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
– 1 medium onion, sliced into strips
For the Bowls:
– 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
– 1 cup cooked pinto beans
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– 1 cup pico de gallo
– 1 cup guacamole
– ½ cup cilantro ranch dressing
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, fajita seasoning, and lime juice. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and slightly charred. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, add the marinated chicken strips. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a golden-brown color.
4. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls. Top each bowl with a portion of cooked pinto beans. Add the sautéed vegetables and cooked chicken on top. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken and vegetables. Add a scoop of pico de gallo and guacamole to each bowl. Drizzle cilantro ranch dressing over the top.
5. Serve: Serve the chicken fajita bowls immediately, allowing each person to mix the ingredients as desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, fajita seasoning, and lime juice. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the Vegetables:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and slightly charred. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add the marinated chicken strips. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a golden-brown color.
Assemble the Bowls:
Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls. Top each bowl with a portion of cooked pinto beans. Add the sautéed vegetables and cooked chicken on top. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken and vegetables. Add a scoop of pico de gallo and guacamole to each bowl. Drizzle cilantro ranch dressing over the top.
Serve:
Serve the chicken fajita bowls immediately, allowing each person to mix the ingredients as desired.
Notes
Marinating Time:
For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken for longer if time allows.
Vegetable Variations:
Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms for more variety.
Make Ahead:
The components can be prepared ahead of time and assembled just before serving for a quick meal.
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Customization:
Ingredients can be easily customized based on dietary preferences, including using different beans or cheese options.
Cook Techniques
Marinating
Combining the chicken with fajita seasoning, vegetable oil, and lime juice allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste and tenderness. A minimum of 15 minutes of marination is recommended for optimal flavor.
Sautéing
Cooking vegetables over medium-high heat in a skillet ensures they become tender and develop a slight char, enhancing their natural sweetness. This technique adds depth to the flavor profile of the dish.
Cooking Chicken
Cooking marinated chicken strips in the same skillet used for vegetables maximizes flavor. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and achieve a golden-brown color, signaling that the chicken is fully cooked.
Assembling Bowls
Layering the bowls starting with rice, followed by beans, sautéed vegetables, and cooked chicken, creates a building presentation. This technique not only looks appealing but allows for mixing of flavors when served.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute beef or shrimp for chicken, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
What can I use instead of fajita seasoning?
You can create your own blend using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder, or use any seasoning blend you prefer.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and use additional beans, veggies, or tofu for protein.
Is it possible to prepare the ingredients in advance?
Absolutely! You can chop the vegetables and marinate the chicken ahead of time, making assembly quick and easy during mealtime.
Conclusion
The chicken fajita bowls provide a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them a satisfying meal for any occasion. The marinated chicken, sautéed vegetables, and fresh toppings combine to create a vibrant dish that is both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, these bowls are a colorful addition to your dinner repertoire.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Burrito Bowl
Swap out chicken for black beans or grilled veggies and layer with rice, corn, avocado, and salsa.
Spicy Shrimp Fajita Bowl
Substitute chicken with shrimp seasoned with spices and cooked until tender, served with similar toppings.
Quinoa and Chicken Bowl
Replace rice with quinoa for a healthier grain option, combining it with chicken, beans, and fresh veggies.
Beef Fajita Bowl
Use thinly sliced beef strips instead of chicken, seasoned with fajita spices for a heartier option.
Breakfast Fajita Bowl
Add scrambled eggs or a fried egg on top of the bowl for a delicious breakfast twist.
Taco Bowl
Use taco-seasoned ground beef or turkey and layer with rice, lettuce, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
Pasta Fajita Bowl
Combine cooked pasta with fajita chicken and veggies, drizzled with ranch dressing for an Italian-Mexican fusion.
