Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl

Name: Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 4 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; 1 avocado, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 lime, cut into wedges; Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl as it brings all the vibrant flavors of fajitas into a wholesome meal. The combination of marinated chicken, colorful bell peppers, and fresh toppings creates a delightful balance that's not only satisfying but also nutritious. We often serve it with brown rice or quinoa for an extra health boost. This bowl is perfect for meal prep and always seems to impress my family and friends with its zesty taste and fresh ingredients.

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:29:36.231Z

When I first made this Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl, I was surprised at how easily it came together without sacrificing flavor. The key is to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, as this infuses the meat with a delightful blend of spices and acids that keep it tender and juicy. I love using fresh lime juice and cumin, which really bring out the smoky fajita flavor.

As I experimented with various toppings, I discovered that adding a scoop of homemade guacamole makes all the difference. It not only adds creaminess but also a healthy fat component that elevates the entire dish. I've found that this bowl works perfectly for both lunch and dinner, making it one of my go-to recipes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty and vibrant flavors that brighten up your meal
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Packed with nutrients and perfect for meal prep

Understanding the Ingredients

The backbone of this Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl is the marinated chicken. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures a lean protein source while the marinade transforms ordinary chicken into a flavor-packed centerpiece. The combination of olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder not only adds depth but also ensures the chicken remains juicy. If you're looking for a time-saver, use pre-marinated chicken or consider swapping for firm tofu or grilled shrimp for a vegetarian or pescatarian option.

Colorful bell peppers and onions are essential for that classic fajita experience. Not only do they add crunch, but they also provide vitamins A and C, making this bowl a nutritional powerhouse. Aim for a variety of colors—like red, yellow, and green—to enhance both the visual appeal and the nutrient profile. If you're short on time, grab a pre-cut vegetable mix from the grocery store to speed up the cooking process while still enjoying fresh flavors.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the chicken, a cast-iron skillet can give you a beautiful sear and add even more flavor. Ensure the skillet is adequately preheated—around medium-high heat—before adding the chicken. Look for a golden-brown exterior and check for doneness with a meat thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you like a bit of char, consider finishing the chicken under the broiler for a minute or two after grilling for those delightful crispy edges.

Sautéing the vegetables in the same skillet right after the chicken infuses them with additional flavor from the chicken drippings. Cook them until they're tender but retain a slight crunch—about 5-7 minutes is perfect. This method not only maximizes flavor but also minimizes cleanup. If you prefer a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the vegetables while sautéing.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
4 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

For the Toppings

1 avocado, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 lime, cut into wedges
Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and let rest.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

Assemble the Bowl

Slice the cooked chicken into strips. In serving bowls, layer brown rice or quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and chicken strips. Top with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.

Serve

Serve each bowl with lime wedges and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding some black beans or corn to your bowl. It not only increases the nutritional value but also adds a delightful texture.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips

This Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl is fantastic for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cooked chicken can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it easy to assemble your bowls throughout the week. To keep your toppings fresh, I like to store diced avocado separately to prevent browning.

For an even quicker meal, consider preparing your grains—brown rice or quinoa—at the beginning of the week. Store them in the fridge and simply reheat in the microwave before assembling your bowls. This not only saves you time but also ensures you have a healthy base ready for any meal.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Feel free to experiment with toppings to personalize your Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl. For a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. Black beans or corn can also enhance the bowl's texture and fiber content. If you're not a fan of sour cream, a dollop of Greek yogurt offers creaminess with extra protein.

If you want to switch up flavors, try adding different spices to the chicken marinade, like smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky kick. You can also substitute the brown rice or quinoa with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative without sacrificing flavor. This versatility can help keep your meals exciting and cater to various dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different protein?

Yes! You can easily substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beef.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the chicken and use extra vegetables or add legumes like black beans.

→ What is the best way to reheat the fajita bowl?

Reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.