Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls with Smoky Chipotle Goodness
Recipe Introduction: Oi, That's Banging!
Ever get a craving for something bursting with flavor? Something quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying? Let me introduce you to my Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls .
Honestly, these bowls are where it's at. They're like a fiesta in a bowl.
Quick Hook: Your New Fave
These Chicken Fajita Bowls are my go-to for a healthy, tasty meal. The smoky Chipotle Chicken Fajita Bowl is seriously addictive, I'm telling ya.
It is a Tex-Mex Rice Bowl type of food. What's not to love?
Brief Overview: From Mexico (Kinda) to Your Kitchen
These bowls take inspiration from classic Tex-Mex flavors. They are easy to make and are ready in under an hour.
This recipe yields four generous servings. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week.
Main Benefits: Healthy and Delicious? Yes, Please!
These are a Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl option. They are packed with protein and veggies, so you can feel good about what you're eating.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. What makes this recipe special? The creamy, smoky chipotle sauce, of course!
What Makes These Bowls Banging?
I have to say the star of the show in this Fajita Rice Bowl is the creamy chipotle sauce. It's got that perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy.
It elevates the whole dish. Honestly, once you try it, you'll never go back to plain old rice bowls.
Time to Gather Your Grub
Alright, ready to get started? Here’s what you'll need.
Right then, let's get down to brass tacks for these banging Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls ! Proper scran needs proper ingredients, yeah? Don't worry, it's all pretty straightforward, even if you're not a seasoned chef.
Ingredients & Equipment Breakdown
Let’s talk about what you need to make the magic happen with this Chicken Fajita Bowl .
Main Ingredients Deets
Okay, so for the chicken, you'll need 1.5 lbs (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut 'em into strips, about 1/2 inch thick.
Honestly, the quality of the chicken makes a HUGE difference here. Go for free range if you can; it just tastes better, you know? Marinate that chook in 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil, 1 tbsp (15ml) fresh lime juice, 1 tbsp (14g) chili powder, 1 tsp (5ml) cumin, 1 tsp (5ml) smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp (2.
5ml) garlic powder, 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) onion powder, 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) salt, and 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) black pepper.
Give it at least 15 minutes. I usually let it sit for a few hours, if I have time.
For the fajita veggies, it's 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil, 1 large onion (sliced), and 2 bell peppers (any color, sliced).
Throw in a minced jalapeño if you're feeling brave. Don't forget 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) salt and 1/4 tsp (1.
25ml) black pepper.
For that creamy, smoky Chipotle Chicken Fajita Bowl sauce? We need 1/2 cup (113g) plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream if you're feeling naughty), 1 tbsp (15ml) fresh lime juice, 1 minced chipotle pepper (from a can of adobo), 1 tbsp (15ml) adobo sauce, 1/4 tsp (1.
25ml) garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) salt.
Finally, for the base, grab 3 cups of cooked rice. Brown rice is my go-to for that Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl vibe, but white rice works too, or even cauliflower rice if you're watching the carbs.
Seasoning Notes
Smoked paprika is your best mate here. It adds that lovely smoky flavour. Don't skimp on it! Also, that Creamy Chipotle Sauce is crucial.
The adobo sauce from the can is key. You could use chipotle powder but you won't get the same depth of flavour.
Honestly, that chipotle sauce makes the dish. If you are looking to make a spicy Chicken Fajita Bowl , add an additional Chipotle Pepper.
Equipment Needed
You don't need a fancy kitchen for this. Just a large skillet or wok, a couple of mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a chopping board, and a decent chef's knife.
If you don't have a wok, don't stress! A large frying pan will do just fine. This recipe is simple.
There you have it. All the stuff you need to knock up a proper Tex-Mex Rice Bowl . Get everything prepped, and you'll be scoffing down a delicious Fajita Rice Bowl in no time.
Cooking Method for Bangin' Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls
Oi, let's talk about how to actually cook these Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls . It's easier than queuing for the loo at Glastonbury, trust me.
I've made these so many times, honestly, I reckon I could do it in my sleep. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, especially when you're craving some Tex-Mex Rice Bowl vibes.
Prep Like a Boss
First things first, get your mise en place sorted. Chop the chicken (1.5 lbs) into strips. Slice those onions (1 large) and bell peppers (2, any colour).
Mince the jalapeno (1, optional) and the chipotle pepper (1). Having everything prepped saves a bunch of time, believe me.
Honestly, there is nothing worst than preparing while cooking. Plus, marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to a more flavourful experience.
It's crucial to be well organized. It is very important to be careful when handling the chilli, you know?
step-by-step: From Zero to Hero
Right, let's get cooking!
- Marinate the chicken: Mix the chicken strips with the olive oil (1 tbsp), lime juice (1 tbsp), chili powder (1 tbsp), cumin (1 tsp), smoked paprika (1 tsp), garlic powder (1/2 tsp), onion powder (1/4 tsp), salt (1/4 tsp), and pepper (1/4 tsp). Set aside for at least 15 minutes .
- Sauté the veggies: Heat the olive oil (1 tbsp) in a skillet. Cook the onions until softened. Chuck in the peppers and jalapeno (if using), cook until tender crisp. Season with salt and pepper (1/4 tsp each). Remove from pan.
- Cook the chicken: In the same skillet, cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) . Make sure it's browned and cooked through.
- Whip up the sauce: Whisk together Greek yogurt (1/2 cup), lime juice (1 tbsp), chipotle pepper (1), adobo sauce (1 tbsp), garlic powder (1/4 tsp), and salt (1/4 tsp). Adjust the chipotle to your liking.
- Build those bowls: Pile the rice (3 cups) into bowls. Top with veggies and chicken. Drizzle with that Creamy Chipotle Sauce .
Pro Tips for Fajita Rice Bowl Supremacy
Want to take your Chicken Fajita Bowl to the next level? Marinate the chicken overnight, if you can. The longer, the better. It becomes so juicy.
Also, don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken, you know? Cook it in batches to get that lovely browning. You don't want it steamed instead of seared. Big difference!
Leftovers are your friend! These bowls are awesome for Easy Chicken Fajita Meal Prep . Make a big batch on Sunday and you're sorted for lunches all week.
How good is that? It will be a Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl for days.
Recipe Notes: Making the Best Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls Ever
So, you're ready to dive into these epic Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls? Ace! Before you get started, let's chat about a few bits and bobs to ensure your culinary adventure goes swimmingly.
Honestly, these are the things I wish I knew the first time I made them.
Plating Like a Pro: Serving Suggestions
Oi, presentation matters, yeah? For a Chipotle Chicken Fajita Bowl that looks as good as it tastes, layer your rice at the bottom.
Then, pile on the fajita veggies and smoky chicken. Drizzle that creamy chipotle sauce generously.
Top it all off with your favorite bits like avocado, cilantro, or a cheeky bit of shredded cheese. Wanna go the extra mile? Serve with warm tortillas on the side.
It is gonna be a Fajita Bowl fiesta, guv'nor!. A cold Mexican beer? Yes, please.
Storage Savvy: Keeping Your Fajita Bowl Fresh
Right then, got leftovers? No worries. Let everything cool down completely before you even think about storing it. Keep the chicken and Fajita Veggies separate from the rice in airtight containers.
The Creamy Chipotle Sauce ? Definitely keep that separate too.
Everything will be good in the fridge for up to 3 days . Freezing isn't really recommended for the rice or veggies, they can get a bit mushy.
The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months . To reheat, just microwave it all until piping hot. Easy peasy.
Spice it Up or Tone it Down: Variations
Fancy a bit of a twist? You got it. For a veggie version, swap the chicken for black beans or tofu.
Works a treat! Got mates who are watching their waistlines? Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. Sorted!
Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade. Boom. A true Tex-Mex Rice Bowl !
Know Your Nosh: Nutrition Basics
Okay, so roughly speaking, one serving of these Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls is about 550 calories . You're looking at around 45g of protein, 25g of fat, and 45g of carbs.
They're packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the veggies and rice, making them a surprisingly healthy Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl option.
Plus, that yogurt based chipotle sauce gives you a dose of probiotics. Result!
Honestly, these Chicken and Rice Bowl Recipe are so simple. Don't stress if you don't have every single ingredient. Just have a go and make it your own.
You got this! Before you know it, you will be doing Easy Chicken Fajita Meal Prep like a pro!.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the chicken and veggies for these Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, prepping ahead is a great shout for busy weeknights. You can marinate the chicken overnight and chop the veggies a day in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. Just remember to cook them separately to prevent the veggies from becoming soggy. Sorted!
What's the best way to store leftover Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls?
Leftovers are brilliant for lunch the next day! Store the rice, chicken & veggies, and chipotle sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This prevents the rice from getting soggy and keeps the flavours distinct. They'll keep well for up to 3-4 days.
Do your best to keep the ingredients separated until reheating!
Can I make these Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls spicier? I like a proper kick!
You bet your bottom dollar you can! For an extra fiery kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade or finely dice an extra jalapeno and add it to the fajita veggies. You could also increase the amount of minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the chipotle sauce.
If you're really brave, a dash of your favorite hot sauce over the top works a treat!
I'm trying to eat healthier. Are there any substitutions I can make to these Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls?
Definitely. To lighten things up, swap white rice for brown or cauliflower rice to reduce carbs. Using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the chipotle sauce will cut down on fat, and you can load up on extra veggies like bell peppers and onions. Every little bit helps when you are trying to get healthy!
I don't have chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. What can I use instead in my Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls?
No worries, mate! If you can't find chipotle peppers, you can use chipotle powder or smoked paprika to give a little bit of the smokey flavour. Another great option is to use a dash of your favorite smoky barbecue sauce. It won't be exactly the same, but it will still add a lovely smoky element.
Plus, it is important to adapt the recipe for your specific dietary needs!
Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls With Smoky Chip
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 5g |
