Chicken Fajita Bowls with Cilantro Brown Rice

A healthy, colorful bowl with fresh toppings.

Cost:

Ease:

Health Benefit:

High in lean protein, fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats. This balanced meal supports heart health while providing sustained energy from whole grains and vegetables.

Cookware Needed:

Large skillet or grill pan
Sheet pan
Medium saucepan (if preparing rice)
Mixing bowls
Cutting board and knife

Substitutions:

Chicken thighs can be substituted with chicken breasts.
Brown rice can be replaced with quinoa, white rice, or cauliflower rice.
Greek yogurt can be substituted with a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Add black beans, grilled corn, pickled red onions, fresh jalapeño, or pumpkin seeds for additional flavor, fiber, and texture.

Ingredients:

Chicken
1½ lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
2 tsp chili powder
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp oregano
Salt and pepper

Vegetables
2 bell peppers, sliced
1 large red onion, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper

Rice
2 cups cooked brown rice
Juice of 1 lime
¼ cup chopped cilantro
Pinch of salt

Fresh Toppings
Diced avocado
Pico de gallo
Shredded romaine
Sliced radishes
Fresh cilantro
Lime wedges

Cilantro Lime Yogurt Sauce
¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
Juice of 1 lime
2 tbsp chopped cilantro
1 small garlic clove, grated
Pinch of cumin
Salt to taste

Step-By-Step Directions

Step 1

Marinate the chicken with olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes (overnight is even better).

Step 2

Toss the bell peppers, onion, and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Step 3

Grill or sear the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.

Step 4

Stir the lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt into the warm brown rice.

Step 5

Whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, and salt to make the yogurt sauce.

Step 6

Assemble each bowl with cilantro-brown rice, roasted vegetables, sliced chicken, fresh toppings, and a drizzle of cilantro-lime yogurt sauce.

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