Mouthwatering Gluten-Free Mexican Chicken Fajita Bowls with Cilantro Lime Rice

Mouthwatering Gluten-Free Mexican Chicken Fajita Bowls with Cilantro Lime Rice

Discover our scrumptious gluten-free Mexican Chicken Fajita Bowls recipe, a delightful combination of tender grilled chicken and zesty cilantro lime rice, finished with black beans, avocado, and tangy pico de gallo. This easy yet gourmet dinner idea is perfect for a cinematic at-home Mexican feast.

Time: Prep: 30 minutes - Cook: 25 minutes - Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Mexican, Gluten-Free

Allergens

None

Ingredients

  • 1. Chicken Fajita Marinade:
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) 2. Cilantro Lime Rice:
  • 1 1/2 cups long
  • grain white rice
  • 3 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Zest and juice of 2 limes 3. Pico de Gallo:
  • 2 cups tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper, to taste 4. Additional Ingredients:
  • 1 (15oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 avocados, sliced
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with the marinade ingredients. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
  2. Prepare cilantro lime rice by combining water, salt, and rice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the water. Fluff with a fork and stir in cilantro and lime zest and juice. Cover and set aside.
  3. While the rice is cooking, prepare pico de gallo by combining tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.
  4. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium high heat. Grill the marinated chicken thighs until cooked through and slightly charred, about 6 8 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
  5. To assemble, divide rice among four bowls, top with grilled chicken, black beans, avocado slices, and a generous helping of pico de gallo. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Chef’s Insight

The combination of spices in the chicken marinade adds depth of flavor, while the acidity from the lime juice in both the rice and pico de gallo helps to balance the richness of the dish.

Notes

For a more authentic flavor, consider using Mexican lime juice instead of regular lime juice.

Cultural or Historical Background

Fajitas are a popular Mexican dish that typically consists of grilled meat, usually beef, served with various garnishes like onions, bell peppers, and guacamole. This gluten-free recipe puts a twist on the traditional fajita by using chicken and serving it over rice instead of tortillas.