Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Bowls (Print Version)

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

# 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

11 - 2 medium bell peppers (1 red, 1 yellow), sliced
12 - 1 medium red onion, sliced
13 - 1 tbsp olive oil
14 - Pinch of salt and pepper

→ Bowls

15 - 2 cups cooked brown rice
16 - 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
17 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
18 - 1 avocado, sliced
19 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
20 - Lime wedges, for serving

# How to Make:

01 - 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.
02 - 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.
03 - 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.
04 - Divide cooked brown rice evenly among four containers. Layer sautéed peppers and onions, cooked chicken, black beans, and cherry tomatoes on top.
05 - 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.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and quick cooking times.
  • Perfect for meal prep, giving you flavorful lunches ready to go.
  • High in protein and gluten-free, supporting healthy eating goals.
  • Colorful veggies add freshness and nutrients to each bowl.
02 -
  • Use fresh lime juice and zest for a punch of brightness.
  • Keep avocado and cilantro separate until serving to prevent browning and wilting.
  • For extra char, grill the chicken instead of pan-frying.
  • Prep all ingredients ahead and assemble bowls daily to maintain freshness.
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