Easy Fajita Bowls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Fajita Bowls are a fresh and vibrant meal that offers endless customization options. Whether you prefer chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian option, these bowls allow you to create a balanced dish with a variety of textures and flavors. The combination of seasoned meat, sautéed vegetables, and fluffy rice creates the perfect base, while toppings like avocado, cheese, and sour cream bring it all together. It’s a great meal for meal prep, family dinners, or even casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 1 lb flank steak

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)

• ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)

• ½ cup corn kernels (optional)

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 1 avocado, sliced

• Sour cream (optional)

• Salsa or pico de gallo (optional)

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Protein:

   • For chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with fajita seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper.

   • For steak: Rub the steak with fajita seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper.

   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If using steak, cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness. Let the protein rest before slicing it thinly against the grain.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

   • In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the bell peppers and onions over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until tender and slightly charred.

3. Assemble the Bowls:

   • In each bowl, add a serving of rice as the base.

   • Top with sliced chicken or steak, sautéed bell peppers and onions, black beans, corn, and a squeeze of lime juice.

4. Add Toppings:

   • Add sliced avocado, sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro to each bowl for extra flavor and texture.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Serve immediately, or store individual components separately for meal prep.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes 4 servings.

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken or steak with sautéed tofu, tempeh, or just extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.

• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to your fajita bowl for extra heat.

• Grilled Option: Grill the chicken, steak, and vegetables for a smoky, charred flavor.

• Different Rice: Use quinoa or cilantro-lime rice for a flavor-packed variation of the base.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover fajita bowls can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the rice, protein, and vegetables in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I make fajita bowls with shrimp?

Yes, shrimp works wonderfully in fajita bowls. Season and cook shrimp just like you would the chicken or steak, but they cook much faster, about 2-3 minutes per side.

2. Can I use a store-bought fajita seasoning?

Absolutely! Store-bought fajita seasoning is a quick and easy option, and it works just as well in this recipe.

3. Can I make fajita bowls ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare all the components ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just assemble the bowls when ready to eat.

4. Can I add cheese to the fajita bowls?

Yes, shredded cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco makes a great addition. Sprinkle it on top of the warm rice or protein so it melts slightly.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the fajita seasoning and other ingredients you use do not contain gluten. Always check labels to be sure.

6. What can I serve on the side with these fajita bowls?

Serve with tortilla chips, a side of guacamole, or a fresh salad with a tangy dressing to round out the meal.

7. How can I make the fajita bowls spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your bowls for an extra spicy kick.

8. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen peppers and onions will work in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess water before sautéing.

9. How do I get perfectly cooked chicken for fajita bowls?

For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally. You can also marinate the chicken before cooking for extra flavor.

10. Can I make these bowls low-carb?

Yes, you can skip the rice and use cauliflower rice or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb version of fajita bowls.

Conclusion

Easy Fajita Bowls are the perfect weeknight meal that combines vibrant flavors and textures in one bowl. With seasoned protein, sautéed peppers and onions, and all your favorite toppings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize. Whether you’re craving a healthy lunch, a quick dinner, or a fun meal for the family, these bowls offer a satisfying, flavorful experience that’s sure to hit the spot.

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