Okay, friends, let’s talk about dinner – the kind of dinner that’s ready in a flash, tastes absolutely amazing, and *actually* makes you feel good. I’m talking about Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice! Seriously, these bowls are a game-changer. I’ve been making them for my family for years, and they’re always a hit. What I love most is that it’s a complete meal in one bowl – protein, veggies, and healthy carbs, all bursting with flavor.
My kids, who can be picky eaters (aren’t they all?), gobble these up, especially when they get to customize their own bowls with their favorite toppings. And honestly, after a long day, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why these Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice are my go-to. They’re quick, easy, and super satisfying. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your house too! I’ve tweaked different versions over the years, and this is the recipe that consistently delivers the best flavor and easiest cleanup.
Why You’ll Love These Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
Quick and Easy Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
Seriously, who has hours to spend making dinner? Not me! From start to finish, you’re looking at about 40 minutes, and the prep? Only 15 minutes! That’s faster than ordering takeout, and way healthier!
Flavorful and Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
Okay, these aren’t just quick; they’re packed with flavor! The spices, the fire-roasted tomatoes…wow! And you can feel good about eating them, too. Lean protein, tons of veggies, and whole-grain brown rice – it’s a win-win!
Customizable Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
My favorite part? Everyone can make their own bowl *exactly* how they like it. More cheese? Go for it! Extra cilantro? Pile it on! No tomatoes? No problem! It’s a perfect way to please even the pickiest eaters (like my son, ahem!).
Ingredients for Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
Alright, let’s gather our goodies! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these amazing Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice. Don’t skimp on the fresh stuff – it really makes a difference! Here’s the full list:
- 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste, of course!)
- 2 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 3 cup chopped bell pepper (about 2 medium)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (I *love* garlic!)
- 1 2/3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (15 oz) can fire roasted tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 cups instant brown rice
- 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
Okay, so a couple of notes here. I usually use instant brown rice ’cause, well, I’m impatient! But feel free to use regular brown rice – just adjust the cooking time. Not a fan of black beans? Kidney beans or pinto beans work great too! And if you’re trying to be extra healthy, you can totally swap the rice for quinoa. Just follow the package directions for cooking the quinoa. It’s all about making it *your* bowl!
How to Prepare Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice: Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, healthy meal on the table in no time. I promise!
Cooking the Chicken for the Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
First, grab that 12-inch skillet. Heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Now, toss your diced chicken with 1 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, salt, and pepper. Get it all nice and coated! Once the oil is hot (careful, it splatters!), add the chicken. Cook it, tossing now and then, until it’s cooked through – about 7 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s no longer pink inside. Trust me, nobody wants undercooked chicken! Once it’s ready, move the chicken to a foil sheet and wrap it up to keep it warm. We don’t want it getting cold while we work on the veggies!
Sautéing the Vegetables for the Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
Now, back to that skillet! Put it back on medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil. Then, toss in your diced onions and cook them for about 3 minutes, until they start to soften. Next, add the chopped bell peppers and cook for another 3 minutes. Finally, add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute – you don’t want it to burn! The garlic will get nice and fragrant…mmm, I love that smell!
Simmering the Brown Rice and Assembling the Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls
Okay, almost there! Pour in the chicken broth, fire-roasted tomatoes, and black beans. Add the remaining 1 tsp chili powder and 1/2 tsp cumin, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring it all to a boil. Then, add the instant brown rice, give it a good toss to make sure it’s all submerged in the liquid, and reduce the heat to medium. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 6-7 minutes. Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This is important – it lets the rice absorb all that yummy flavor! Now, stir in the cooked chicken, lime juice, cheese, and cilantro. And that’s it! Serve it warm and get ready to dig in! You can even set out a bowl with your favorite hot sauce to add even more flavor!
Tips for the Best Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
Wanna take these bowls from good to *amazing*? Here’s my secret weapon: don’t be shy with the spices! Taste as you go and add a little extra chili powder or cumin if you like a bolder flavor. Also, make sure you don’t overcook the chicken – nobody likes dry chicken! And finally, splurge on good-quality cheese; it really makes a difference. Trust me!
Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
Can I make Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bowls are great for meal prepping. I often make a big batch on Sunday and then portion them out for lunches during the week. Just store the rice mixture and the chicken separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Then, when you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. Easy peasy!
What are some good toppings for Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love topping mine with diced avocado (healthy fats, yay!), a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess!), and a sprinkle of green onions. A little pico de gallo or salsa is also fantastic for a burst of fresh flavor. And if you like it spicy, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce is a must! Go wild and get creative!
Is brown rice healthier than white rice in Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls?
Yep, brown rice is definitely the healthier option. It’s a whole grain, which means it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that white rice just doesn’t have. That fiber helps you feel fuller for longer and keeps your digestive system happy. Plus, it has a lower glycemic index, so it won’t spike your blood sugar as much as white rice. It’s a simple swap that makes a big difference!
Storing and Reheating Your Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Just pop ’em in an airtight container and stick ’em in the fridge. They’ll keep for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, microwave ’em until heated through, or warm them up in a skillet on the stovetop. Easy peasy!
Nutritional Information for Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
Okay, so let’s talk numbers! Each serving of these Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice clocks in at around 450 calories. You’re also looking at roughly 30 grams of protein, 45 grams of carbs, and 20 grams of fat. Not bad, right?
But hey, a little disclaimer here: these numbers are just estimates! The exact nutrition info can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. Different brands have different values, and the amount of cheese you pile on (guilty!) will obviously make a difference. This information shouldn’t be considered a substitute for professional nutrition advice.
Enjoy Your Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice!
So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking! And hey, if you try these, leave a comment below and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends – they’ll thank you!
Print
Devour Flavorful Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowls with Brown Rice
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy these flavorful and healthy chicken fajita bowls with brown rice. A quick and easy meal packed with protein and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 3 cup chopped bell pepper (about 2 medium)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 2/3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (15 oz) can fire roasted tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 cups instant brown rice
- 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a non-stick 12-inch saute pan or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken, season with 1 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, tossing occasionally, until cooked through, about 7 minutes.
- Transfer chicken to a sheet of foil and wrap to keep warm.
- Return skillet to medium-high heat. Add remaining 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil, then add onions and saute for 3 minutes.
- Add bell peppers and saute for 3 minutes longer, then add garlic and saute for 1 minute longer.
- Add chicken broth, tomatoes, black beans, remaining 1 tsp chili powder, and 1/2 tsp cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil.
- Add rice and toss well to coat and submerge in liquid. Reduce heat to medium. Cover and let simmer for 6-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Stir in chicken, lime juice, cheese, and cilantro. Serve warm.
Notes
- For additional spice, add 1 tsp paprika and 1/2 tsp ground coriander to the broth mixture.
- Optionally, serve with diced avocado or Mexican hot sauce. If you love heat, saute a diced jalapeno with the bell peppers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
