Save Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls are your new weeknight hero—packed with vibrant colors, bold Mexican-inspired flavors, and a perfect balance of protein and veggies. Grilled chicken, sautéed peppers, and onions served over fluffy rice make for a satisfying, healthy meal that’s easy to prepare in advance and enjoy anytime. Whether you're prepping lunches for busy days or looking for quick dinners, these bowls provide freshness, convenience, and taste all in one.
Save This recipe balances smoky spices with the natural sweetness of bell peppers and acidity from lime juice, delivering layers of flavor in every bite. The combination of black beans and brown rice rounds out the meal for a hearty, nutritious bowl that fits well into a busy lifestyle.
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
- Step 1
- 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).
- Step 2
- 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.
- Step 3
- In the same skillet, add marinated chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove from heat.
- Step 4
- 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.
- Step 5
- Add sliced avocado and fresh cilantro just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Step 6
- 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
Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavors even more, allowing the spices and lime juice to fully penetrate the meat. Sautéing the peppers and onions until they develop a slight char adds a smoky depth that elevates the dish. To keep the bowls fresh longer, separate the avocado and cilantro until just before serving.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Try substituting the chicken with tofu or shrimp for different protein options. Swap brown rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to fit your dietary preferences. To add a creamy element, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Serviervorschläge
This dish pairs beautifully with lime wedges to brighten each bite. Garnish with extra cilantro for freshness and serve with a side of salsa or hot sauce for added zing. Enjoy cold or reheated for a comforting and wholesome meal.
Save With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls are designed to bring joy and convenience to your meals throughout the week. They combine the best of fresh produce, wholesome grains, and flavorful protein into a dish that's as nourishing as it is delicious.