Save Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexican-inspired cuisine with these Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls. Featuring tender grilled chicken perfectly seasoned with chili powder and cumin, accompanied by sautéed colorful bell peppers and red onions, this dish is a wholesome, protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and ideal for quick lunches all week long.
Save The beauty of these meal prep bowls lies in their balance of smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors. Marinating the chicken with lime and spices infuses wonderful zest, while the sautéed peppers and onions bring natural sweetness and a touch of char. Topped with creamy avocado and bright cilantro right before serving, every bite is a satisfying and nourishing experience.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken
500 g (1.1 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
2 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Juice of 1 lime - Vegetables
2 medium bell peppers (1 red, 1 yellow), sliced
1 medium red onion, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
Pinch of salt and pepper - For the Bowls
2 cups cooked brown rice (or white rice or quinoa)
1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- 1.
- In a large bowl, combine chicken strips, 2 tbsp olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator).
- 2.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced peppers and onion, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and sauté until softened and slightly charred, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- 3.
- In the same skillet, add marinated chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove from heat.
- 4.
- Divide the cooked rice evenly between four meal prep containers. Top each portion with sautéed peppers and onions, cooked chicken, black beans, and cherry tomatoes.
- 5.
- Add sliced avocado and fresh cilantro just before serving to maintain freshness.
- 6.
- Serve with lime wedges. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For best results, keep avocado and cilantro separate until ready to eat.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Marinate the chicken longer overnight to deepen the smoky and citrus flavors. When sautéing vegetables, aim for a slight char to develop a rich, caramelized taste. Use a non-stick skillet or grill pan for easy cooking and cleanup.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp as a protein variation to suit your preferences. For a low-carb option, replace the rice with cauliflower rice. Consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or shredded cheese for extra flavor.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these bowls with fresh lime wedges to brighten the dish and complement the smoky chicken. Add avocado and cilantro just before eating to keep their flavors and textures fresh. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or quick dinner.
Save With its balance of fresh, smoky, and hearty ingredients, the Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls are your go-to solution for healthy, flavorful meals that save time without sacrificing taste. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness any day of the week!
Recipe FAQs
- → How long can the fajita bowls be stored?
Store bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep avocado and cilantro separate until serving to maintain freshness.
- → Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Yes, tofu or shrimp work well as alternatives and can be cooked using the same seasoning and method.
- → What rice options can be used?
Brown rice, white rice, or quinoa are all excellent bases depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- → How should the vegetables be cooked?
Sauté sliced bell peppers and onions with olive oil until softened and slightly charred to enhance their natural sweetness.
- → Are there low-carb alternatives for the base?
Cauliflower rice can be used instead of traditional rice for a lighter, low-carb option.