Mini Chicken Fajita Bowls Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it lets me enjoy all the vibrant flavors of a classic fajita in a fun, bite-sized form, making it perfect for sharing with friends at casual get-togethers. Plus, with the colorful mix of peppers and the zesty lime, it’s like a little fiesta in every tasty bite!

Relish the intense tastes of my Mini Chicken Fajita Bowls, made with finely diced chicken breasts seasoned with chili powder and cumin and nestled in mini tortilla bowls. The combination of red, yellow, and green bell peppers not only adds visual appeal but also packs each bowl with healthy nutrients, while the generous sprinkle of shredded cheese means these mini meals really do feel like a fiesta.

Ingredients

Chicken Breasts:
Rich in protein; there are many ways to incorporate this great source into countless meals.

Olive Oil:
Fat that is healthy for the heart; contributes richness and flavor.

Chili Powder:
Provides warmth; is abundant in antioxidants.

Bell Peppers:
Few calories; full of vitamins A and C.

Mini Tortilla Bowls:
Carbohydrate foundation; ideal for carrying toppings.

Cheddar Cheese:
Supplementing with calcium-rich foods is essential for maintaining bone health, especially in women, who are at greater risk for osteoporosis.

Cilantro:
Herb fresh; imports vividness and assists digestion.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 12 mini tortilla bowls or cups
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a big bowl, combine the diced chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is thoroughly coated so that every bite is flavorful.

2. Warm a big frying pan over medium-high heat and put in the well-spiced chicken. Let it sizzle for 6 to 8 minutes, allowing it to brown nicely and become cooked all the way through. Once done, take the chicken out of the pan and put it to the side, ready to be served or used in another dish.

3. Add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers to the same skillet. Then, add the sliced onion. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly charred.

4. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mini tortilla bowls on a baking sheet.

5. Evenly distribute the prepared chicken among the mini tortilla bowls.

6. Sauté bell peppers and onions to top each bowl.

7. Over the top of each filled tortilla bowl, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese.

8. Put the baking sheet in the oven that has been preheated and bake for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Take the bowls out of the oven and put a spoonful of salsa on top of each one.

10. Top with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Devour your Mini Chicken Fajita Bowls!

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Measuring spoons
3. Cutting board
4. Chef’s knife
5. Large skillet or frying pan
6. Spatula or wooden spoon
7. Baking sheet
8. Oven
9. Grater (if shredding cheese yourself)
10. Serving spoon

FAQ

• Q: Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?A: Indeed, the chicken can be swapped out for beef, pork, or even tofu to make a vegetarian version.
• Q: What if I don’t have mini tortilla bowls?Regular tortillas can be formed in a muffin pan to create a shell, or they can simply be used flat as a base.
• Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?You can amp up the level of heat in the pepper sauce by either increasing the quantity of cayenne pepper you use or adding jalapeños that have been diced up.
• Q: Can these mini bowls be made ahead of time?A: The mixture of chicken and vegetables can be prepared ahead of time, but it’s best to put the bowls together right before serving for maximum crispness.
• Q: Is there a dairy-free option for the cheese?You can use a dairy-free shredded cheese or simply omit the cheese entirely.
• Q: Can I add more vegetables?Sure thing! You can certainly toss in other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms for an added variety.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitute avocado oil for olive oil to get a bolder flavor.
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for juicier meat.
Substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika to get a flavor that is smoky.
For a milder flavor, substitute Monterey Jack cheese for the cheddar.
Use red onion instead of a regular onion for a sweeter flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Marinate for More Flavor For even more flavor, marinate the chicken with the spices and olive oil for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator before cooking.

2. Evenly Cook the Chicken To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, cut the pieces to a uniform size. This will help each piece cook at the same rate, avoiding overcooked or undercooked pieces.

3. Char the Veggies For that authentic fajita flavor, try to get a nice char on the bell peppers and onions. Use high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan so the vegetables sear instead of steam.

4. Customize the Spice Level Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and chili powder to suit your taste. For more heat, add extra cayenne or even some chopped fresh jalapeños.

5. Fresh and Creamy Toppings Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or guacamole to each mini bowl before serving. These will add a creamy texture and complement the spicy and savory flavors beautifully.