Healthy dinner idea 👌🏻 Chicken Fajita Bowls with black bean salsa & avocado mash. Recipe below ⬇️

Healthy dinner idea 👌🏻 Chicken Fajita Bowls with black bean salsa & avocado mash. Recipe below ⬇️ is a easy Mexican recipe that serves 4. 460 calories per serving. Recipe by mallorythedietitian on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr

Cost: $9.66 total, $2.41 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Chicken Breast (skinless, boneless, sliced into strips)
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (extra virgin)
  • 2 teaspoon Fajita Seasoning (store‑bought or homemade blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder)
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
  • 1 can Black Beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup Corn Kernels (frozen, thawed)
  • 1 piece Red Bell Pepper (diced)
  • 0.5 piece Red Onion (small, diced)
  • 2 tablespoon Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cumin Powder (ground)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Chili Powder (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 large Avocado (ripe, flesh only)
  • 2 tablespoon Greek Yogurt (plain, full‑fat)
  • 1 cup Brown Rice (uncooked)
  • 2 cup Water
  • 1 piece Lime Wedges (optional for serving)

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken

    Slice the chicken breast into thin strips. In a bowl, toss the strips with olive oil, fajita seasoning, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Cook Brown Rice

    Rinse the brown rice under cold water. Combine rice and water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: medium

  3. Make Black Bean Salsa

    In a mixing bowl combine drained black beans, thawed corn, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until evenly mixed.

    Time: PT10M

  4. Make Avocado Mash

    Scoop the avocado flesh into a bowl, mash with a fork until mostly smooth. Stir in Greek yogurt, a squeeze of lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Cook Chicken

    Heat the skillet over medium‑high heat. Add the marinated chicken strips in a single layer; cook 5‑6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the edges are lightly charred.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: medium-high

  6. Assemble Bowls

    Divide the cooked brown rice among four serving bowls. Top each with a portion of chicken, a generous scoop of black bean salsa, and a dollop of avocado mash. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
460
Protein
30 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
15 g
Fiber
9 g

Dietary info: Gluten-Free, High-Protein, Contains Dairy

Allergens: Greek yogurt (dairy)

Last updated: March 12, 2026

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Healthy dinner idea 👌🏻 Chicken Fajita Bowls with black bean salsa & avocado mash. Recipe below ⬇️

Recipe by mallorythedietitian

A vibrant, healthy summer meal featuring seasoned chicken, fluffy brown rice, a zesty black bean salsa, and creamy avocado mash. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal‑prep, this Mexican‑inspired bowl is packed with protein, fiber, and fresh flavors.

EasyMexicanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
20m
Prep
35m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 5m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$9.66
Total cost
$2.41
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Marinating the chicken for flavor development
  • Cooking chicken to the correct internal temperature
  • Preventing avocado mash from browning
  • Balancing seasoning in the black bean salsa

Safety Warnings

  • Use separate cutting boards for raw chicken and vegetables to avoid cross‑contamination.
  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling raw poultry.
  • Be careful when handling a hot skillet; use oven mitts or a silicone handle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of chicken fajita bowls in Mexican cuisine?

A

Fajitas originated in the ranch lands of northern Mexico and Texas, where cattle workers would grill skirt steak over open flames. Over time, the concept evolved into a versatile bowl format that combines protein, rice, and fresh toppings, reflecting the Mexican tradition of balancing bold flavors with wholesome staples.

cultural
Q

What are traditional regional variations of fajita bowls in Texas and Mexico?

A

In Texas, fajita bowls often feature grilled beef or chicken with a smoky rub, served over cilantro‑lime rice and topped with cheese and sour cream. In central Mexico, the bowl may use corn tortillas broken into pieces, include chorizo, and be flavored with epazote and tomatillo salsa.

cultural
Q

How is chicken fajita bowl traditionally served in Mexican street‑food culture?

A

Street vendors typically serve the chicken on a warm tortilla or over a bed of rice, topped with fresh pico de gallo, sliced avocado, and a squeeze of lime. The dish is eaten with a fork or hand‑held, emphasizing quick, flavorful, and portable eating.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is chicken fajita bowl associated with in Mexican cuisine?

A

Fajita bowls are popular for casual gatherings, weekend barbecues, and family picnics because they are easy to assemble and can be customized for each guest. They are also a go‑to option for Cinco de Mayo celebrations when a festive, colorful dish is desired.

cultural
Q

How does chicken fajita bowl fit into the broader Mexican cuisine tradition?

A

The bowl embodies the Mexican culinary pillars of corn, beans, fresh herbs, and vibrant chilies. By pairing protein with beans and rice, it creates a balanced, nutritious meal that reflects the Mexican emphasis on hearty, communal dishes.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for chicken fajita bowls versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional ingredients include chicken, lime‑marinated fajita spice blend, black beans, corn, cilantro, and avocado. Acceptable substitutes are turkey or tofu for the protein, quinoa for rice, and Greek yogurt or sour cream for the creamy avocado mash.

cultural
Q

What other Mexican dishes pair well with chicken fajita bowls?

A

Serve alongside fresh guacamole, a side of queso fresco, Mexican street corn (elote), or a chilled agua fresca such as watermelon or hibiscus for a complete Mexican‑style meal.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making chicken fajita bowls?

A

Common errors include overcooking the chicken, not draining the canned beans well, and letting the avocado mash sit uncovered, which causes browning. Also, overcrowding the skillet prevents proper searing.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use black bean salsa instead of traditional pico de gallo?

A

Black bean salsa adds heartier texture and extra protein, making the bowl more filling. The beans also balance the smoky chicken and provide a subtle sweetness that complements the lime‑bright avocado mash.

technical
Q

Can I make chicken fajita bowls ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes. Prepare the black bean salsa and cook the rice and chicken up to 2 days in advance. Store each component in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls just before serving to keep textures fresh.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel mallorythedietitian specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel mallorythedietitian specializes in evidence‑based, nutrition‑focused cooking videos that emphasize balanced meals, portion control, and practical tips for healthy eating at home.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel mallorythedietitian's approach to healthy Mexican cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

mallorythedietitian blends traditional Mexican flavors with a dietitian’s perspective, prioritizing lean proteins, whole‑grain carbs, and nutrient‑dense toppings while still delivering bold, authentic taste. This contrasts with many channels that focus primarily on indulgent or restaurant‑style versions.

channel

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