Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Let’s dive into a recipe that has stolen my heart (and my taste buds) – the Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl! This dish is a little fiesta in a bowl and something I whip up whenever I’m craving laid-back dinner vibes without the fuss.
I remember the very first time I made this. I was hosting a casual gathering with friends, and I wanted something that would please a crowd without spending all day in the kitchen. I settled on this, and it was a hit! Everyone loved customizing their bowls, and honestly, it was like the best kind of taco bar but with a twist. Now, it’s become a staple in my home. It’s quick, fresh, and satisfies all those flavor cravings.
### What’s in Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl?
Let’s break down the star players of this colorful feast and why I’m so fond of each one!
Chicken Breast: Lean protein that’s super easy to cook. I always go for organic when I can – it makes a difference!
Fajita Seasoning: You can buy it pre-mixed, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade is the way to go! A blend of spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder brings that authentic flavor.
Olive Oil: A splash of this liquid gold adds richness and helps cook the chicken beautifully.
Bell Pepper: A burst of color and crunch! Feel free to use your favorite color – I love the sweetness of red or yellow.
Red Onion: Adds a nice bite and a lovely pop of purple. You could always substitute with yellow onion if that’s what you have on hand.
Brown Rice or Quinoa: I’m all for whole grains! They’re filling and give you that boost of energy. Both options are great, but quinoa gives a protein punch, too.
Black Beans: These are the perfect heartiness to the bowl. Plus, they’re full of fiber and nutrients. I usually stick with low-sodium canned ones for ease.
Corn: Sweet, crunchy corn complements everything nicely, whether fresh off the cob or from the freezer.
Tomato: Fresh is best! Diced tomatoes add juiciness and brightness.
Lettuce: The crunchy crown of the bowl! I always use romaine or iceberg for that crisp texture.
Guacamole & Sour Cream: Can we just take a moment? These creamy toppings are heaven. I sometimes switch sour cream for Greek yogurt for a healthier option!
Cilantro: Such a fresh herbal note! You either love it or, well, you don’t. But trust me, it’s worth a try!
Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice takes the flavors to another level! Definitely don’t skip this step!
### Is Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish packs a nutritious punch.
– The **chicken breast** provides lean protein, crucial for muscle repair and growth.
– **Black beans** and **corn** offer fiber, which is fantastic for digestion and helping you feel fuller longer.
– **Vegetables** like bell pepper and onion are loaded with vitamins and add so much flavor and color.
– Choosing **brown rice or quinoa** ups the fiber levels and provides complex carbohydrates, which keep energy levels steady.
Just a quick note on portion control—while this bowl is filled with healthful ingredients, be mindful of how much guacamole and sour cream you dollop on there if you’re watching your calorie intake.
### Ingredients List
This recipe serves 4, so gather the following:
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
– 1 tomato, diced
– 1 cup lettuce, shredded
– 1/2 cup guacamole
– 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Lime wedges (for serving)
– Salt and pepper to taste
### How to Make Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl?
Time to get cooking! Follow these easy steps:
1. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the fajita seasoning until they’re evenly coated. If you have a little time, let them marinate for about 15 minutes – it really amps up the flavor!
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken’s cooked through and nicely browned. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and red onion. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the veggies are soft and slightly charred. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
4. Prepare your serving bowls by doling out the cooked brown rice or quinoa evenly.
5. Top each bowl with black beans, corn, the sautéed chicken, lettuce, diced tomato, and a generous dollop of guacamole and sour cream.
6. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
7. Dig in and enjoy your Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl! Mix it all together for a delicious flavor explosion!
### Tips for a Fabulously Flavorful Bowl
A few extra nuggets of wisdom for you:
– **Meal Prep Magic:** This bowl is perfect for meal prep! Cook everything ahead of time and pack individual portions in the fridge. Just add the toppings when you’re ready to eat!
– **Go Veggie:** If you want a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for extra beans or some sautéed mushrooms.
– **Toppings Galore:** Feel free to add more toppings! Shredded cheese, jalapeños, or hot sauce are all great options to customize your bowl even further.
Alright, my friend, that’s all there is to it! I can hardly wait for you to try this Chicken Fajita Burrito Bowl. Your taste buds are in for a real treat! Let me know how yours turns out, and feel free to share your own twists and additions. Happy cooking! 🌮🎉
