Pin It Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls bring together the smoky warmth of grilled chicken with the vibrant colors and flavors of sautéed bell peppers and onions, all served atop a bed of fluffy brown rice. Perfectly spiced and full of wholesome ingredients, these bowls offer a healthy, high-protein lunch option that you can prepare ahead and enjoy throughout the week. Whether you’re meal prepping for busy days or craving a quick, satisfying Mexican-inspired dish, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Pin It With a balance of tender grilled chicken and caramelized vegetables, these fajita bowls bring authentic Mexican-inspired flavors into your kitchen without the fuss. The combination of spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika create a bold profile that’s complimented perfectly by fresh lime juice and cilantro. Whether you’re packing lunches or serving dinner, these bowls are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
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
Be sure to let the chicken marinate long enough to absorb all the spices for maximum flavor. Use a large skillet or grill pan to get a nice sear on the chicken and vegetables, enhancing their natural textures. Since the bowls are designed for meal prep, keep the avocado and cilantro separate until serving to maintain their freshness and vibrant colors.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For protein variation, substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp. To make it lower-carb, try using cauliflower rice instead of brown rice. For an extra creamy or cheesy touch, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sprinkle shredded cheese before serving.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these bowls chilled or reheated, paired with lime wedges for a zesty finish. Fresh cilantro adds a bright herbal note, and ripe avocado slices bring creaminess that balances the smoky spices. These make a colorful, filling lunch or casual dinner for busy days.
Pin It These Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls perfectly balance convenience, nutrition, and flavor. Their colorful presentation and satisfying components make meal prep exciting, ensuring you look forward to every bite. Whether for a quick work lunch or a nourishing dinner, this recipe is a go-to for vibrant, healthy eating all week long.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I keep the avocado fresh in the bowls?
To maintain avocado freshness, keep it sliced separately until serving, then add just before eating to prevent browning.
- → Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Yes, tofu or shrimp can be used instead of chicken, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- → What is the best way to cook the peppers and onions?
Sauté bell peppers and onions in olive oil over medium-high heat until softened and slightly charred for enhanced flavor.
- → How long can the meal prep bowls be stored?
Store the bowls refrigerated up to 4 days, keeping fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro separate until ready to eat.
- → Is it possible to make this dish lower in carbohydrates?
Yes, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping the flavors intact.