Name: Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds chicken breast; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 ¼ teaspoons garlic powder; 1 ¼ teaspoons cumin; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder; 3 teaspoons paprika; 1 tablespoon tapioca starch; 3 bell peppers (any color); ½ large red onion; 2 cups cilantro lime rice; 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed); 2 cups chopped lettuce; ½ cup pico de gallo; ½ cup chipotle aioli

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, fresh, and hearty meal that packs a punch of flavor and is ideal for busy weeknights, look no further than this Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl. Imagine juicy, spiced chicken mingling with smoky sautéed peppers, tangy cilantro lime rice, creamy chipotle aioli, crunchy lettuce, and all your favorite toppings—every bite is a lively fiesta! Not only is this meal satisfying and colorful, but it also lets you customize each bowl for family and friends. Get ready to discover why the Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl might just be your new go-to dinner!

Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the joys of the Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl is how its straightforward ingredients work together to create layers of bold flavors and textures you’ll crave. Here’s a closer look at each component—plus, some tips to help your bowl shine!

Chicken breast: Lean and high in protein, this soaks up those fajita spices and stays tender when cooked right.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the seasoning blend stick to the chicken and veggies, giving them that irresistible caramelization.
Salt: Essential to balance the spices and draw out natural flavors in both the chicken and veggies.
Garlic powder: Gives savory depth and rounds out the spices with its aromatic kick.
Cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin is the backbone of classic fajita flavor.
Brown sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and helps create a gorgeous crust on the chicken.
Oregano: A touch of dried oregano brings brightness and an herby note that lifts the whole dish.
Chili powder: For a gentle heat and that unmistakable Tex-Mex personality.
Paprika: Adds color and a soft, smoky undertone to the chicken and veggies.
Tapioca starch: Helps the spice rub cling to the chicken, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
Bell peppers (any color): Sliced and sautéed, these add juicy crunch and a pop of sweetness.
Red onion: When cooked, it becomes beautifully sweet and caramelized, balancing the bright peppers.
Cilantro lime rice: Tangy and aromatic, this is the essential base of a Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl.
Black beans: Hearty and loaded with fiber, beans add creaminess and substance to the bowl.
Chopped lettuce: Freshness and crunch—this brightens every bite.
Pico de gallo: Lively and zesty, this tomato salsa is a must for a punch of freshness on top.
Chipotle aioli: Smoky, creamy, and just the right amount of heat to tie everything together.

How to Make Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl

Step 1: Mix the Fajita Seasoning

Start by combining the salt, garlic powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, chili powder, paprika, and tapioca starch in a small bowl. It only takes a minute, but this seasoning blend is the heart of your Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl, making sure every bite sings with spice and warmth.

Step 2: Season and Marinate the Chicken

Rub the chicken breasts generously with one tablespoon of olive oil, then coat them thoroughly with that fresh fajita seasoning. Let the chicken rest and marinate for at least 10–15 minutes; even this short time helps those flavors soak right in!

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat your remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts, cooking each side for 6 to 7 minutes until golden-brown and the inside is perfectly done (shoot for an internal temp of 165°F or 74°C). Resting the chicken for a few minutes after ensures it stays juicy when you slice it.

Step 4: Slice the Chicken

Once rested, slice those chicken breasts into thin strips. Every slice should reveal beautiful color from the spices, and you’ll be able to layer them neatly into your bowls.

Step 5: Sauté the Bell Peppers and Onions

While the chicken cooks, slice your bell peppers and red onion into thin strips. In the same skillet, sauté the veggies for 3–4 minutes, just until they’re slightly caramelized but still crisp and fresh—this brings out tons of sweet, smoky flavor.

Step 6: Prep the Cilantro Lime Rice

If using pre-made rice, simply warm it up. Making it fresh? Cook according to package instructions, then stir in freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime for that signature tangy finish that makes your Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl irresistible.

Step 7: Assemble the Burrito Bowls

Here’s where the magic happens! In each bowl, start by layering cilantro lime rice, then black beans and chopped lettuce. Top with the sliced chicken, then pile on your sautéed peppers and onions.

Step 8: Top and Finish

Add a lively scoop of pico de gallo and a swoosh of chipotle aioli. For extra flair, sprinkle on more cilantro and add lime wedges for squeezing. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl

Garnishes

Amplify your Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl with freshly chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or sliced avocado for bonus creaminess. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a handful of tortilla strips adds even more flavor and crunch.

Side Dishes

While this bowl is a meal in itself, it pairs beautifully with warm flour tortillas, crunchy tortilla chips, or even a simple corn and avocado salad. A side of Mexican street corn (elote) will truly make dinner feel extra festive!

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or family gatherings, try setting up a Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl bar—let everyone build their perfect bowl with all the toppings and extras. For packed lunches, layer ingredients in mason jars (keeping wet ingredients at the bottom), or for a lighter take, serve the chicken fajita mix over a crisp salad base.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken, veggies, beans, rice, and toppings all hold up well for 3–4 days, making it easy to prep ahead for lunches or dinners.

Freezing

Both the cooked chicken and sautéed veggies freeze beautifully! Let them cool completely, then store in freezer-safe bags or containers. For best quality, enjoy within two months—just save the fresh toppings, aioli, and lettuce for serving day.

Reheating

To reheat, microwave the chicken, rice, beans, and veggies (in separate bursts, so nothing dries out). Or, warm them gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth. Then, freshen up your Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl with newly chopped lettuce, pico de gallo, and aioli just before eating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are deliciously juicy and work just as well. Adjust cook time if needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl?

You bet—swap the chicken for sliced portobello mushrooms or tofu. These alternatives soak up the spices beautifully and bring great texture to your bowl.

How spicy is the finished dish?

As written, the spice is mild to medium. To turn up the heat, add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne; for less spice, use half the amount of chili powder or skip the chipotle aioli.

Can I meal prep Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowls for the week?

Yes! The rice, chicken, veggies, and beans keep well, making this dish ideal for meal prep. Just pack toppings like lettuce and pico de gallo separately and add them fresh before serving.

What can I use instead of chipotle aioli?

Greek yogurt, sour cream, or your favorite creamy dressing all work nicely. For extra flavor, stir in a little hot sauce, smoked paprika, or lime juice to mimic that chipotle zing.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to make (and eat!) this Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl. It’s a celebration of big flavors and fresh, colorful ingredients that come together with absolute ease. Give it a try and watch it become a household favorite. Happy cooking!

Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 20 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A flavorful and satisfying Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl recipe that brings together tender marinated chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, cilantro lime rice, black beans, fresh lettuce, pico de gallo, and a zesty chipotle aioli for a delicious meal in a bowl.

Instructions

Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the salt, garlic powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, chili powder, paprika, and tapioca starch.
Rub the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then coat them with the seasoning mix. Set aside for 10-15 minutes to marinate.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Cook the Veggies: While the chicken cooks, slice the bell peppers and red onion into thin strips.
In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the sliced vegetables and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat.
Prepare the Cilantro Lime Rice: If using pre-made rice, reheat the cilantro lime rice. If cooking fresh, prepare the rice according to the package instructions, and stir in lime juice and freshly chopped cilantro when done.
Assemble the Bowl: In each serving bowl, layer the cilantro lime rice, black beans, chopped lettuce, and sliced chicken.
Top with sautéed bell peppers and onions, a spoonful of pico de gallo, and a drizzle of chipotle aioli.
Serve: Garnish with additional cilantro or lime wedges if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

You can customize your bowl with additional toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
To save time, you can prepare the marinade and chop the veggies in advance.
Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Pan-Frying
Cuisine: Mexican