Save Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls combine vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors with the convenience of healthy meal prep. This dish features tender, flavorful grilled chicken strips paired with sautéed colorful bell peppers and onions, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfectly seasoned and quick to prepare, these bowls are ideal for nourishing lunches or dinners throughout your busy week.
Save These bowls balance protein, fiber, and fresh vegetables to keep you satisfied and energized. The combination of smoky spices and fresh lime juice creates a bright, zesty dish that's a feast for the senses and perfect for any day of the week.
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. Marinate the Chicken
- 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. Sauté the Vegetables
- 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. Cook the Chicken
- In the same skillet, add marinated chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove from heat.
- 4. Assemble the Bowls
- 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 Fresh Toppings
- Add sliced avocado and fresh cilantro just before serving to maintain freshness.
- 6. Serve and Store
- 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
To enhance the smoky flavors, consider using a grill pan for the chicken. Marinating the chicken longer intensifies the taste, and chopping the vegetables evenly ensures they cook uniformly. Keeping avocado and cilantro separate until serving preserves their freshness and vibrant color.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a protein variation that suits your diet. Swap out brown rice for cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrates, or add a dollop of Greek yogurt or shredded cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these bowls with fresh lime wedges to add a zesty finish. Pair with a side of tortilla chips or a light salad for a complete meal. Garnish with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added color and heat.
Save These Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls bring together nutrition and flavor in a simple dish that keeps well and tastes even better the next day. Whether for busy weekdays or casual weekend meals, this recipe offers a fresh, wholesome option that’s easy to love.
Recipe FAQs
- → What spices enhance the chicken flavor?
Chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powders create a bold, smoky seasoning profile for the chicken.
- → Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?
Yes, tofu or shrimp can be used for a different protein option while maintaining the dish’s flavor profiles.
- → What’s the best way to keep vegetables fresh?
Add sliced avocado and chopped cilantro just before serving to preserve their texture and freshness.
- → Are there gluten-free ingredients in this meal?
All ingredients including rice, beans, and spices are naturally gluten-free, but check packaged spices and beans for cross-contamination.
- → How long can these bowls be stored?
Store refrigerated for up to 4 days; keep avocado and cilantro separate until ready to enjoy for best results.