Protein Atlas
Skillet Chicken Fajita Bowls high-protein recipe

Meals · High Protein

Skillet Chicken Fajita Bowls

Skillet Chicken Fajita Bowls provide over 40 grams of protein and approximately 690 calories per serving. This dish features tender chicken and crisp bell peppers, seared and seasoned with a smoky blend of spices. Everything comes together efficiently in a single skillet, creating a satisfying meal with savory depth.

Serves 2 bowls
100g protein 1091 cal
Prep Time 10 min
Cook Time 15 min
Total Time 30 min

Nutrition per serving

Protein
100 g
Calories
1091

Nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredient data and may vary by brand or preparation method. This information is for general reference only and is not a substitute for professional dietary advice. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.

Ingredients

2 servings
  • 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts — sliced into 1/2-inch strips
  • 2 medium Bell peppers — sliced (any color)
  • 1 medium Red onion — sliced
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Fajita seasoning
  • 1.5 cups Cooked brown rice
  • 1 15-oz can Canned black beans — rinsed and drained
  • 0.5 cup Salsa
  • 0.25 cup Plain Greek yogurt — or light sour cream
  • 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro — chopped
  • 1 medium Lime — cut into wedges

Steps

  1. In a large bowl, toss the sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of fajita seasoning until evenly coated.
  2. In a separate bowl, toss the sliced bell peppers and red onion with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of fajita seasoning.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Add the seasoned bell peppers and red onion to the same skillet. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly charred. If the skillet seems dry, add a splash of water or a tiny bit more oil.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir well to combine and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
  6. To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked brown rice evenly between two bowls. Top each with half of the chicken and vegetable mixture, and half of the rinsed black beans.
  7. Garnish each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a spoonful of salsa, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a lime wedge for squeezing.

Why This Works

This recipe delivers 46 grams of protein per serving, making it an efficient choice for muscle maintenance and satiety. Lean chicken breast provides concentrated protein while keeping calories moderate at 690 per bowl, while the addition of black beans contributes an extra 7 grams of plant-based protein. Compared to typical restaurant-style chicken fajita bowls (averaging 30g protein), this version provides 53% more protein by maximizing the chicken portion, incorporating black beans as a fiber-rich protein source, and using Greek yogurt as a creamy topping instead of regular sour cream.

Plating Perfection

For an appealing presentation, arrange the rice as a base, then artfully layer the chicken and fajita vegetables on one side and the black beans on the other. Finish with a generous dollop of Greek yogurt, a vibrant spoonful of salsa, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. A lime wedge placed on the rim of the bowl adds a pop of color and an invitation to brighten the flavors.

Make-Ahead & Storage

The cooked chicken and fajita vegetables can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cooked brown rice and rinsed black beans can also be prepped ahead. When ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken and vegetables in a skillet or microwave, then assemble with fresh toppings. This meal is not recommended for freezing once assembled.

Flavor Boosters & Swaps

For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your fajita seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to your finished bowl. If you prefer a different grain, quinoa or cauliflower rice can be swapped for brown rice. Avocado slices or guacamole make a creamy addition, while pickled jalapeños can add a tangy heat. Feel free to experiment with different bell pepper colors for visual appeal and varied sweetness.