Save Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican-inspired cuisine right to your lunchbox. Featuring juicy grilled chicken strips seasoned with smoky spices alongside sautéed colorful peppers and onions, these bowls offer a perfect balance of protein and fresh vegetables. Layered over a base of wholesome rice and finished with creamy avocado slices and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, they are designed for easy weekly meal prep and quick, healthy lunches that never compromise on taste.
Save These meal prep bowls not only taste amazing but also make your weekly lunch routine a breeze. The combination of smoky-seasoned chicken and vibrant vegetables ensures a satisfying and colorful meal, while simple assembly steps keep your kitchen time efficient. Whether at work, school, or home, these bowls maintain freshness and flavor, especially with toppings added just before serving.
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
To ensure the freshest flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if time allows. When cooking the vegetables, aim for a slight char to deepen their sweetness and add texture to the bowls. Be cautious when reheating meals with avocado—add it fresh at serving time to keep its creamy texture and bright color intact.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a different protein option, substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp. If you prefer a lower-carb bowl, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. Enhance flavor by adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or shredded cheese just before serving, or omit ingredients like avocado and cilantro if there are sensitivities.
Serviervorschläge
These chicken fajita bowls are delicious on their own or paired with a fresh side salad. Serve with lime wedges to add a bright zest just before eating. For a heartier meal, incorporate warm tortillas or a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce to personalize each bowl.
Save The Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls are a perfect blend of convenience, nutrition, and bold flavors, ideal for busy weeknights and on-the-go lunches. Simple to prepare and full of colorful ingredients, this dish transforms regular meal prep into an enjoyable culinary experience.
Cooking Q&A
- → What type of rice works best with this meal?
Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture, but white rice or quinoa are great alternatives depending on preference.
- → Can the chicken be substituted with another protein?
Yes, tofu or shrimp can be used as protein alternatives to keep the dish flexible and accommodate different diets.
- → How do I keep avocados fresh when preparing in advance?
Keep sliced avocado separate until serving and add fresh lime juice to slow browning.
- → What spices give the chicken its flavor?
Chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder create a smoky and slightly spicy seasoning.
- → How long can these bowls be stored safely?
Store in the refrigerator for up to four days; keep fresh toppings like cilantro and avocado separate until ready to eat.