Oh wow, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: the chicken fajita burrito bowl! It’s a fiesta in a bowl, packed with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients that make my taste buds dance! Seriously, the combination of juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and creamy avocado is just heavenly. The best part? You can customize it to your heart’s content! Whether you’re in the mood for a bit of spice, some extra cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream, this dish is as versatile as it gets. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the smiles on their faces were priceless! It’s quick, easy, and wholesome, making it perfect for busy nights when you still want something delicious and satisfying. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious chicken fajita burrito bowl! Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that mouthwatering flavor profile, so let’s dive in:
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced: This is the star of the show! Dicing it helps it cook quickly and evenly, soaking up all those yummy spices.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds sweetness and a beautiful pop of color to your bowl.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: For a contrasting flavor and vibrant look, green peppers bring a bit of earthiness.
- 1 onion, sliced: Sweet and savory, onions caramelize beautifully, adding depth to your dish.
- 2 cups cooked rice: You can use white or brown rice here; it’s the perfect base to soak up all those delicious juices!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for cooking the chicken and veggies, it gives everything a nice, rich flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning: This spice blend is what makes your chicken flavorful and zesty. You can use store-bought or make your own!
- 1 cup black beans, drained: They add protein and fiber, making your bowl hearty and filling.
- 1 cup corn, drained: Sweet corn brings a delightful crunch and balances the flavors perfectly.
- 1 avocado, sliced: Trust me, the creaminess of avocado takes this bowl to the next level!
- 1 cup salsa: This adds freshness and zing! You can choose mild or spicy, depending on your preference.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: A sprinkle of cheese at the end adds that melty goodness that everyone loves.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to create a colorful and tasty bowl that will impress anyone at your table!
How to Prepare Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl
Alright, let’s get cooking! This chicken fajita burrito bowl comes together quickly and easily, so just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
First things first, grab a large pan and heat that tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to make the chicken sizzle when it hits the pan. This step is super important because it helps to lock in the moisture of the chicken and gives a lovely flavor to the veggies later on. Trust me, that sizzle is music to your ears!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Now, toss in your diced chicken breast along with the fajita seasoning. Stir it around to coat the chicken evenly, and cook it for about 5–7 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. This is where all those enticing fajita flavors start to shine, and your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Once your chicken is ready, it’s time to add in the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté them for about 3–5 minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. You want that bright, colorful mix to stay crisp yet soft, adding the perfect texture to your bowl. Wow, just look at those vibrant colors!
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
Now comes the fun part! Grab your bowl and start layering. First, add the cooked rice at the bottom to soak up all those delicious juices. Next, spoon in the chicken and veggie mixture, followed by the black beans and corn for that hearty goodness. Top it off with sliced avocado, a generous scoop of salsa, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Seriously, it looks like a rainbow in there!
Step 5: Serve
And there you have it! Serve your chicken fajita burrito bowl immediately while it’s warm and inviting. If you want to impress, add some fresh cilantro or a wedge of lime on the side for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy every colorful, mouthwatering bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can whip up this chicken fajita burrito bowl in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy chicken, zesty fajita seasoning, and fresh veggies creates a vibrant flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix and match toppings! Whether it’s adding extra cheese, switching up the beans, or tossing in some jalapeños, the choices are endless.
- Healthy and Filling: Packed with protein from the chicken and black beans, plus fiber from the veggies, this bowl keeps you satisfied without feeling heavy.
- One Bowl Wonder: Everything you love is beautifully layered in one bowl—easy to serve, easy to store leftovers, and easy to clean up!
- Kid-Friendly: With its colorful presentation and tasty ingredients, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to create your chicken fajita burrito bowl, here are some of my top tips to ensure it turns out perfect every time!
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: When cooking the chicken and veggies, give them enough time to develop their flavors. If you rush, you’ll miss out on that delicious caramelization!
- Season to Taste: I always recommend tasting as you go! If you think it needs more spice or flavor, don’t hesitate to add a bit more fajita seasoning or fresh lime juice.
- Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, feel free to prep your ingredients ahead of time. Chop the veggies and marinate the chicken the night before for a super quick assembly when you’re ready to cook!
- Mind the Heat: Cooking on medium heat is key! Too high, and you’ll end up with burnt chicken and veggies; too low, and they’ll get mushy. Just find that sweet spot!
- Get Creative with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try adding sliced jalapeños for heat, a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or even some pickled onions for a tangy twist.
- Leftover Magic: If you have any leftovers, toss them into a quesadilla or wrap for lunch the next day! It’s a delicious way to enjoy your meal all over again.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make an incredible chicken fajita burrito bowl that will impress everyone around your dinner table!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note, my friends! The nutritional information for this chicken fajita burrito bowl can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I strive to provide accurate estimates, please keep in mind that these numbers are not set in stone. It’s always a good idea to check the labels on your ingredients for the most precise information. Enjoy your cooking adventure and make it your own!
FAQ Section
Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
Absolutely! This chicken fajita burrito bowl is super versatile. You can swap out the chicken for beef, shrimp, or even go vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms or tofu. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly!
Can I make this chicken fajita burrito bowl ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Just cook the chicken and veggies, and store them separately from the rice and toppings. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat everything and assemble your bowl!
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover chicken fajita burrito bowl is a dream! You can toss it into a wrap, mix it into a salad, or even turn it into a quesadilla. The possibilities are endless, and it still tastes amazing!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this chicken fajita burrito bowl is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure to check the labels on your fajita seasoning and any other ingredients you use to ensure they’re gluten-free.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! If you love a kick, feel free to add some chopped jalapeños, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes, or use a spicier salsa. Adjust the heat to your taste, and enjoy the flavor explosion!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep your chicken fajita burrito bowl fresh and delicious for later! If you find yourself with some leftovers (which is totally possible because this dish is so good!), here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
- Storing Leftovers: Make sure your chicken fajita burrito bowl is completely cooled before storing. Grab an airtight container and layer your leftovers in there. If you’ve mixed everything together, that’s fine! Just keep in mind that the avocado might brown a bit, but it will still taste great.
- Refrigeration: Store your container in the refrigerator, and it should stay fresh for about 3–4 days. Just make sure to enjoy it within that time frame for the best taste!
- Freezing: If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze the chicken fajita burrito bowl! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Remember to label the containers with the date so you know what you’ve got!
- Reheating: When you’re ready to dive back into your bowl, you have a couple of options! For the microwave, just pop it in for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through to heat it evenly. If you prefer the stovetop, you can reheat it in a pan over medium heat, stirring until everything is warmed through. Just don’t forget to add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out!
And there you go! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your chicken fajita burrito bowl any time you crave that delicious flavor. Happy cooking!
Print
Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl: 5 Flavorful Reasons to Dig In
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful chicken fajita burrito bowl with fresh veggies and rice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning
- 1 cup black beans, drained
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add chicken and fajita seasoning, cook until chicken is no longer pink.
- Add bell peppers and onion, sauté until tender.
- In a bowl, layer rice, chicken mixture, black beans, corn, avocado, salsa, and cheese.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite toppings.
- Use brown rice for a healthier option.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chicken fajita burrito bowl