Name: Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 bell peppers, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenderloins; 1 batch of Chicken fajita seasoning; 3 cups cooked white rice* (1 cup uncooked rice); Juice from 1/2 lime; 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped; 6 cups lettuce; Sour cream; 2 smashed avocados; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon table salt; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a dinner that bursts with bold flavor and vibrant color, the Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl is ready to become your new favorite. Imagine perfectly seasoned chicken and sizzling peppers piled high over fluffy cilantro-lime rice, then topped with creamy avocado and cool sour cream — every scoop is a party for your tastebuds! This easy meal pulls together all the best parts of a fajita into one beautiful, satisfying bowl that’s both wholesome and absolutely crave-worthy.

Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl has its moment to shine, bringing texture, taste, and fresh flavor to the final dish. The magic really lies in how these simple building blocks come together for a seriously memorable meal.

Bell peppers: Sliced for that sweet crunch and plenty of eye-popping color.
Onion: Adds a gentle sweetness as it roasts next to the peppers and chicken.
Olive oil: Keeps everything juicy in the oven and helps those spices cling to every bite.
Salt: Just enough to bring every flavor into sharper focus.
Chicken tenderloins: Super quick to cook and they soak up all that fajita seasoning beautifully.
Chicken fajita seasoning: Everything you love about fajitas, packed into an aromatic, smoky blend.
White rice: Fluffy, comforting, and the perfect vehicle for all those toppings and juices.
Lime juice: A squeeze of brightness that makes your rice irresistible!
Cilantro: Fresh and herby, it livens up the rice and keeps things tasting extra-fresh.
Lettuce: A cool, crisp counterpoint to all the warm, saucy goodness in your bowl.
Sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that pulls every element together.
Smashed avocados: Rich, velvety, and essential for that ultimate fajita bowl experience.
Chili powder: Brings just enough gentle heat and bold color to the chicken.
Smoked paprika: Sneaks in that subtle smokiness every good fajita needs.
Ground cumin: Earthy and warming, it’s a classic in Tex-Mex flavor profiles.
Oregano: Adds a light, herbaceous finish to round out your seasoning.
Table salt: To enhance all the flavors in the spice blend.
Garlic powder: Lends a gentle depth and that familiar garlicky punch.
Onion powder: Layers in even more savory flavor throughout every bite.

How to Make Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 425F. This high temp is the secret to getting those bell peppers, onions, and chicken tenderloins perfectly caramelized and juicy. With everything roasting together, you’ll get melded flavors with minimal effort.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

Slice up your bell peppers and onion, then spread them onto a sheet pan. Drizzle with half the olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Use your hands or tongs to toss so every piece is coated evenly, then arrange into a single layer for even roasting and beautiful texture.

Step 3: Season and Prep the Chicken

Generously coat your chicken tenderloins with the homemade fajita seasoning blend, along with the rest of the olive oil. The result: chicken that comes out deeply flavorful, juicy, and loaded with all the familiar fajita aromas.

Step 4: Roast Everything Together

Lay the seasoned chicken tenderloins right on top of your vegetables. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 20 to 24 minutes, or until the chicken hits an internal temp of 165F. Once done, shred or slice the chicken so every forkful will have a bit of everything.

Step 5: Make the Cilantro-Lime Rice

While the chicken and veggies roast, cook your white rice according to the package directions. When it’s fluffy, stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. The aroma alone will make you hungry, and it infuses every bite with a burst of freshness.

Step 6: Build Your Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl

Grab your bowls and layer with crisp lettuce, a generous scoop of cilantro-lime rice, and a hearty serving of that beautifully cooked chicken and veggies. Top each bowl with creamy sour cream and luscious smashed avocado for that classic fajita finish.

How to Serve Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl

Garnishes

When serving, a sprinkle of extra cilantro and a few lime wedges add color and brightness. A drizzle of hot sauce or a few sliced jalapeños can turn up the heat for spice lovers. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream and a pile of fresh, garlicky smashed avocado to tie everything together — that’s what makes this Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl truly special.

Side Dishes

Pair your Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl with tortilla chips and salsa for an added crunch, or grilled corn on the cob for that extra pop of summer flavor. Even a simple side of black beans or pinto beans complements the bowl’s rich, zesty character without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, set up a “build-your-own Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl” bar by laying out all the components in bowls and platters. Let guests customize their own bowls with extra toppings like shredded cheese, pickled onions, or sliced jalapeños. For a fun twist, serve mini bowls as appetizers or in lettuce cups for a light, party-friendly snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, keep each component of your Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl in its own airtight container in the refrigerator. This method keeps the rice from getting soggy and the veggies and chicken at their best. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, making this dish a meal-prep superstar!

Freezing

The chicken and seasoned veggies freeze quite well in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to two months. The rice can also be frozen separately, but wait to add garnishes like sour cream or avocado until just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

Reheating

To reheat your Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl, warm the chicken, veggies, and rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth. Once heated through, layer into your bowl with fresh lettuce and toppings so everything tastes as vibrant as day one.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a wholesome swap and adds a pleasant nutty flavor. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package and mix in the lime juice and cilantro as you would with white rice.

What if I don’t have chicken tenderloins?

Chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully in this Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl. Just slice them into strips before seasoning to mimic the texture and quick-cook advantage of tenderloins.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for roasted portobello mushrooms or seasoned tofu — both pick up the fajita spices very well and deliver hearty, satisfying bites in your rice bowl.

Can I meal prep Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl for lunches?

Definitely! Prepare all components ahead and store the rice, chicken, and veggies in divided containers. Keep your lettuce and toppings separate until you’re ready to eat for the freshest results.

How do I make the fajita seasoning at home?

Combine chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder to make your own robust, aromatic fajita seasoning. Adjust the amounts to your taste or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat!

Final Thoughts

Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl is one of those meals that feels special yet effortless every time you make it. It’s endlessly adaptable, bursting with flavor and color, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find it turning up in your regular dinner rotation!

Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 18 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, seasoned vegetables, fluffy rice, and creamy avocado. It’s a perfect dish for a quick and delicious dinner!

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425F. Slice bell peppers and onion. Add them to your sheet pan, toss with 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Spread into an even layer.
Season chicken tenderloins with fajita seasoning and remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil.
Lay chicken on top of the veggies and bake for 20-24 minutes, or until chicken has reached 165F. Once the chicken is done, shred it.
Cook the rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and stir in lime juice and cilantro.
Divide lettuce, rice, chicken, and vegetables among bowls. Top with your desired amount of sour cream and smashed avocado.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking, Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican