Save to Pinterest Discover the perfect weeknight solution with these Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls. Combining juicy grilled chicken seasoned with a vibrant blend of Mexican-inspired spices and colorful sautéed bell peppers and onions, this dish pairs effortlessly with hearty brown rice and fresh toppings. Ideal for busy schedules, these bowls offer a balanced, high-protein meal that’s both flavorful and convenient to enjoy throughout the week.
Save to Pinterest These bowls combine convenience and nutrition, making them a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor or time. The lime juice and spices infuse the chicken with zesty brightness, while the colorful vegetables add texture and sweetness.
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
Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor or prepare the vegetables while the chicken marinates to save time. Using a grill pan instead of a skillet can add a smoky char for additional depth. Keep avocado and cilantro separate until serving to preserve freshness.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp to suit different dietary preferences. For a lower-carb option, swap the rice for cauliflower rice. Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or shredded cheese before serving enhances the flavor and creaminess.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these bowls with lime wedges for a fresh burst of citrus. Pair with a side of salsa or hot sauce for extra heat. Garnish with additional cilantro or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
Save to Pinterest With a little prep and the right ingredients, these Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls will become your go-to for healthy, flavorful meals all week long. Embrace the balance of spice, freshness, and protein in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?
Yes, tofu or shrimp work well as protein alternatives, maintaining the dish's flavor balance.
- → What kind of peppers are best to use?
Red and yellow bell peppers provide ideal sweetness and color contrast when sautéed with onions.
- → How can I keep the avocado fresh in the bowls?
Storing avocado slices separately and adding them just before serving helps maintain their freshness.
- → Is it possible to prepare the meal in advance?
Yes, marinate the chicken ahead and assemble the bowls for convenient, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.
- → Are there low-carb options available?
Replacing rice with cauliflower rice reduces carbohydrates while keeping the dish flavorful.
- → How long can these bowls be stored safely?
Stored in airtight containers, the bowls stay fresh up to 4 days in the refrigerator.