1. Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes! Prepare the components a day ahead, and keep them in separate containers. All you have to do is heat and assemble before serving.

2. What are some chicken protein alternatives?

Try beef, shrimp, or tofu! Just adjust your cooking time accordingly — shrimp, for example, cooks quickly, while tofu benefits from pressing before you season it.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Each ingredient can be stored in an airtight container separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. This prevents flavors from fading and textures from going mushy.

4. Can I freeze this recipe?

The cooked and assembled chicken and fajita veggies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Add the rice and any fresh toppings just before serving.

Easy Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl

Ingredients

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper and (optional) red pepper flakes. Stir in the sliced chicken and lime juice, tossing to coat well. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 30 minutes if time allows).

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the chicken strips to the oil in a single layer and fry for 5 to 7 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and cover to keep warm.

Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, drizzle in a little olive oil, then add your sliced bell peppers and red onion. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened but still crisp. Let them sit undisturbed in the skillet for a minute or two for a lightly charred, smoky flavor.

Prepare the Rice

If your rice needs to be reheated, do so, then stir in lime juice, salt and freshly chopped cilantro for some brightness.

Assemble the Bowls

Use lime-cilantro rice as the foundation in your bowl. Top with the cooked chicken and fajita vegetables. Top your bowl with any toppings you may love — black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, or more cilantro!

Serve and Enjoy

Enjoy your Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl warm. You are definitely going to have a taste explosion with every bite!

Notes

Helpful Tips for Perfect Rice Bowls

Maximize flavor: Marinating the chicken longer (up to 30 minutes) will give it more flavor.
Get a Good Char: Once you’ve placed the chicken and veggies in the skillet, don’t move them around, give them a minute or two, so they develop the nice charred edge.
Save Time: Use the day-old rice. Cold rice soaks in flavors even more.
Make It Your Own: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu or beef for a fun twist.

How to Serve:

This is great for a sit-down dinner, a buffet-style “build-your-own-bowl” event, or a meal-prepped lunch option. Serve it with tortilla chips and guacamole on the side for an even heartier meal.

Author: Susan M
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Diet: Gluten Free