Shrimp Fajita Rice Bowls

Shrimp Fajita Rice Bowls bring together bold spices, succulent shrimp, colorful sautéed peppers, and zesty cilantro-lime rice in a single meal prep-friendly bowl. Perfect for energizing weeknights or impressing guests with something healthy and festive, this dish is endlessly customizable and bursting with fresh flavors.

The first time I tried this, I was shocked at how quickly dinner came together and my whole family scraped their bowls clean. It is now a regular request for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined for sweet juiciness and easy eating, always choose firm shrimp that smells clean not fishy
• Olive oil: good quality for flavor, helps seasonings stick and adds heart-healthy fats
• Chili powder: delivers smoky earthy warmth, look for a blend without additives
• Smoked paprika: lends deep smoky notes, opt for Spanish or high-quality Hungarian if possible
• Ground cumin: boosts the classic fajita aroma with subtle nuttiness, choose freshly ground for max aroma
• Garlic powder: adds fragrant savor and rounds out the spices, use a fresh one if possible for the best punch
• Cayenne pepper (optional): brings gentle heat, use according to your spice comfort
• Kosher salt: brightens flavors and seasons every layer, use flake salt if you have it for extra pop
• Black pepper: freshly ground for subtle heat and complexity
• Red, yellow, and green bell peppers: bring color, sweetness and crunch, pick peppers with taut shiny skin
• Medium red onion: gives mild bite and slight sweetness, choose ones that feel heavy for their size
• Cooked white or brown rice: hearty base to soak up juices and flavors, leftover or fresh is fine
• Lime juice: provides zesty freshness, always use freshly squeezed for bright pop
• Fresh cilantro: herbal brightness and essential to the rice, avoid wilted stems for best flavor
• Avocado: creamy cooling balance, when perfectly ripe yields slightly to gentle pressure
• Salsa or pico de gallo: adds brightness and juiciness, look for chunky salsa with visible veggies
• Shredded cheese (optional): creamy salty contrast, only buy pre-shredded if you trust the quality
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: offers tangy finish, swap in plant-based if skipping dairy
• Lime wedges and extra cilantro: make every bite customizable to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Shrimp:

Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp together with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Let the mixture rest while preparing the vegetables to allow the spices to soak into the shrimp fully.

Sauté the Peppers and Onion:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the sliced onion. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Stirring occasionally, cook for five to seven minutes until the veggies have softened and show just a bit of char at the edges. Transfer them to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Cook the Shrimp:

In the same skillet, keep the heat at medium-high and add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for two to three minutes per side, turning once until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking since shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long. Remove immediately to prevent carryover cooking.

Prepare the Cilantro-Lime Rice:

In a medium bowl, toss cooked white or brown rice with freshly squeezed lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Stir to distribute flavors evenly.

Assemble the Bowls:

Arrange a generous scoop of cilantro-lime rice in each serving bowl. Add a portion of sautéed peppers and onions, then pile on the juicy cooked shrimp.

Add Toppings:

Top each bowl with avocado slices, a spoonful of salsa or pico de gallo, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if you like. Finish with more fresh cilantro and squeeze over extra lime just before serving.

Serve Fresh:

Bring the bowls right to the table and serve immediately to preserve the shrimp’s tenderness and the rice’s freshness.

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I always go big on the cilantro and fresh lime the combination is unbeatable for bright flavor and it is what keeps me coming back for more. Making this together with my kids is one of my favorite weeknight routines because everyone gets to build their own perfect bowl.

Storage Tips

Store components separately in airtight containers for up to three days in the refrigerator. If you add avocado wait to slice it until just before serving to avoid browning. Reheat rice and vegetables in the microwave or a skillet adding a splash of water to revive the texture and keep things moist. Shrimp is best reheated quickly so it stays tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap white rice for brown or even quinoa to up your whole grain intake and make the bowl even more nutrient dense. For a lower carb option use cauliflower rice which pairs especially well with the spices. You can use chicken strips or your favorite plant-based protein instead of shrimp for a different spin.

Serving Suggestions

Offer an array of toppings so each person can build their bowl—consider sliced jalapeños chopped tomatoes or black beans for extra heartiness. Pair with a crisp green salad or simply enjoy on its own. A side of tortilla chips and guacamole turns this into a festive full meal.

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I learned that adding the lime juice and cilantro right before serving the rice keeps everything fresh and bright not soggy and wilted. Heat your bowls before serving for that extra cozy factor.

Recipe FAQ

→ What type of shrimp is best for this bowl?

Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal for even cooking and maximum juiciness. Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp both work well.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, both white and brown rice fit perfectly. Brown rice offers extra fiber and a nuttier flavor. Cauliflower rice is a lower-carb substitute.

→ How can I make this dairy-free?

Skip the cheese and sour cream, or try plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free option—flavors remain delicious and satisfying.

→ Are there protein or veggie add-ins?

Absolutely! Black beans or corn can be added for more substance. Try grilled veggies or extra cilantro for a fresh twist.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

It is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free rice and toppings. Always check product labels to be sure.

→ How spicy is it?

Spiciness is adjustable—add or skip cayenne pepper as you wish. Fresh salsa or jalapeños can boost the heat further.