Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Bowls

Featured in: Veggie & Grain Bowls

These make-ahead chicken fajita bowls feature juicy grilled chicken strips seasoned with chili, cumin, and smoked paprika. Paired with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and a blend of black beans and rice, they deliver a satisfying and wholesome meal. Topped with fresh avocado and cilantro, the bowls are perfect for quick lunches or meal prep. Variations include tofu or shrimp for protein swaps, with easy options for carb-conscious diets.

Updated on Sun, 14 Dec 2025 18:37:11 GMT
Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls feature tender chicken, colorful peppers, and rice—ideal for lunch. Save
Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls feature tender chicken, colorful peppers, and rice—ideal for lunch. | pulseoven.com

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.

Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls feature tender chicken, colorful peppers, and rice—ideal for lunch. Save
Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls feature tender chicken, colorful peppers, and rice—ideal for lunch. | pulseoven.com

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
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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.

These portable Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls show off a vibrant mix of healthy, flavorful ingredients. Save
These portable Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls show off a vibrant mix of healthy, flavorful ingredients. | pulseoven.com

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!

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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.

Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Bowls

Grilled chicken and peppers combined with black beans, rice, and avocado in balanced bowls for easy lunches.

Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
20 min
Overall Time
40 min
Created by Henry Baker


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Mexican-Inspired

Makes 4 Portions

Diet Preferences No Dairy, Wheat-Free

What You'll Need

Chicken

01 1.1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
02 2 tbsp olive oil
03 1 1/2 tsp chili powder
04 1 tsp ground cumin
05 1 tsp smoked paprika
06 1/2 tsp garlic powder
07 1/2 tsp onion powder
08 1/2 tsp salt
09 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
10 Juice of 1 lime

Vegetables

01 2 medium bell peppers (1 red, 1 yellow), sliced
02 1 medium red onion, sliced
03 1 tbsp olive oil
04 Pinch of salt and pepper

Bowls

01 2 cups cooked brown rice
02 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
03 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
04 1 avocado, sliced
05 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
06 Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make

Step 01

Marinate chicken: Combine chicken strips with 2 tbsp olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice in a large bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat and let marinate at least 10 minutes or refrigerate overnight.

Step 02

Sauté vegetables: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced bell peppers and red onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook until softened and slightly charred, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 03

Cook chicken: In the same skillet, add the marinated chicken strips and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove from heat.

Step 04

Assemble bowls: Divide cooked brown rice evenly among four containers. Layer sautéed peppers and onions, cooked chicken, black beans, and cherry tomatoes on top.

Step 05

Add fresh toppings and serve: Add sliced avocado and chopped cilantro just before serving to preserve freshness. Serve with lime wedges. Refrigerate for up to 4 days; keep avocado and cilantro separate until ready to eat.

Tools Needed

  • Large skillet or grill pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Meal prep containers
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Allergens

Always review each ingredient for allergens. Ask a healthcare provider if you're not sure.
  • No major allergens present; verify pre-packaged spices or canned beans for gluten or cross-contamination. Omit avocado and cilantro for sensitivities.

Nutrition Info (per serving)

Use this nutrition estimate as a guideline, but be sure to verify with a health expert if needed.
  • Calories: 470
  • Fats: 16 g
  • Carbohydrates: 47 g
  • Proteins: 34 g