Save Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls bring the vibrant, smoky flavors of Mexican-inspired cuisine right to your weekly lunch routine. Featuring tender grilled chicken strips seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, paired with sautéed bell peppers and onions, this meal prep is as nourishing as it is delicious. Served over a bed of fluffy brown rice and topped with fresh avocado, cilantro, and lime, these bowls offer a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and fresh produce—ideal for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste or convenience.
Pin it With its unbeatable combination of smoky spices and fresh lime, this recipe captures the essence of fajita flavors without the hassle of dining out. Preparing everything in advance means your midday meals stay exciting and wholesome, save time, and reduce stress.
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
- 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
Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor. Marinating the chicken overnight will deepen the spices, intensifying the taste. To get a slight char on the vegetables reminiscent of grilled fajitas, avoid overcrowding the skillet and use high heat when sautéing. Store the avocado and cilantro separately to keep the bowls fresh during the week.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a protein twist, substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp. To keep things low-carb, swap the rice with cauliflower rice. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sprinkle shredded cheese on top for extra creaminess and flavor.
Serviervorschläge
Enjoy these meal prep bowls cold or warm. Pair with a fresh green salad or a side of tortilla chips for added crunch. Garnish with more lime wedges to brighten the dish just before eating.
Pin it This Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowl recipe is a delicious and practical solution for anyone seeking easy, flavorful meals throughout the week. Its combination of fresh and cooked ingredients ensures satisfying lunches that keep flavor and nutrition front and center, all while saving time and effort in the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
Marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes to let the spices penetrate, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
- → Can I substitute other proteins?
Yes, tofu or shrimp work well as protein alternatives and can be prepared using the same seasoning method.
- → What rice options can I use?
Brown rice, white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice are all suitable bases depending on your dietary needs.
- → How do I keep avocado fresh in meal prep?
Add sliced avocado just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent browning.
- → Can I add extra flavor to the bowls?
Yes, a dollop of Greek yogurt or shredded cheese added before serving enhances the taste and creaminess.
- → Are these bowls gluten-free?
The ingredients are naturally gluten-free; just ensure packaged spices and canned beans are gluten-free certified.