Go Back

High Protein Chicken Fajita Bowls - A Fresh, Filling Meal You’ll Crave

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
  • Bell peppers: 3 medium (any colors), sliced into strips
  • Onion: 1 large yellow or red onion, sliced
  • Olive oil: 2–3 tablespoons
  • Lime juice: Juice of 2 limes (plus wedges for serving)
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Spices: 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional), 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Rice or base: 3 cups cooked brown rice, white rice, or cauliflower rice
  • Black beans: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed (optional but boosts protein and fiber)
  • Corn: 1 cup (frozen, fresh, or canned, drained)
  • Avocado: 1–2, sliced or diced
  • Greek yogurt or sour cream: 1/2 cup (Greek yogurt adds extra protein)
  • Fresh cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
  • Pickled jalapeños or fresh jalapeño: Optional for heat
  • Salsa or pico de gallo: For topping
  • Shredded cheese: Optional, like cheddar or Monterey Jack

Method
 

  1. Prep the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  2. Slice the chicken: Cut into thin strips for fast, even cooking. Add to the marinade and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 8 hours in the fridge.
  3. Slice the veggies: Cut bell peppers and onion into 1/2-inch strips. Pat them dry so they char instead of steam.
  4. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add a little oil. Cook the chicken in batches 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
  5. Cook the peppers and onions: In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed. Sauté peppers and onions 6–8 minutes until tender-crisp with some char. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  6. Warm the beans and corn: In a small saucepan, heat black beans and corn with a splash of water and a pinch of salt until warm. Drain excess liquid if needed.
  7. Prepare the base: Fluff cooked rice (or warm cauliflower rice). Squeeze in a bit of lime and sprinkle chopped cilantro if you like.
  8. Assemble: In bowls, add rice, then top with chicken, peppers and onions, black beans, and corn. Add avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt, salsa, cilantro, and jalapeños. Sprinkle cheese if using.
  9. Taste and finish: Squeeze fresh lime over the top. Adjust salt or heat to your preference.