Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Bowls

Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican-inspired cuisine straight to your lunchbox. Filled with tender, spice-rubbed grilled chicken, sautéed colorful bell peppers and onions, and a wholesome base of rice, these bowls are a perfect way to eat healthy throughout the week without sacrificing taste or convenience.

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With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe easily fits into any lifestyle. The marinade infuses the chicken with a smoky, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the peppers and the freshness of cilantro and lime.

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.

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.

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.

In the same skillet, add marinated chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove from heat.

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.

5.

Add sliced avocado and fresh cilantro just before serving to maintain freshness.

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 ahead of time enhances the flavors, making the dish more delicious. Be sure to sauté the vegetables just until tender with a slight char to add smokiness. For meal prep, keep avocado and cilantro separate until serving to maintain their freshness and vibrant color.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a protein variation. Use cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative. Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or shredded cheese can provide extra creaminess and flavor.

Serviervorschläge

Serve your meal prep bowls with fresh lime wedges to brighten the flavors, and add sliced avocado and chopped cilantro just before eating for a fresh, creamy finish. These bowls are perfect on their own or paired with a side salad.

Whisk eggs, batters, sauces, and cream smoothly for baking, cooking, and everyday meal prep.

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These Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls are a delicious, nutritious choice for anyone looking to enjoy fresh, vibrant meals with minimal effort. Whether prepared for busy workdays or weekend lunches, they balance wholesome ingredients with bold Mexican-inspired flavors that keep you coming back for more.

Questions & Answers About This Recipe

→ Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?

Yes, tofu or shrimp work well as alternatives, offering different flavors and textures while maintaining protein content.

→ What cooking methods enhance the flavor of the peppers and onions?

Sautéing peppers and onions until slightly charred brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish.

→ How should the bowls be stored for freshness?

Store components separately if possible; add avocado and cilantro just before serving to maintain freshness.

→ Can I use different grains instead of brown rice?

Absolutely, options like white rice or quinoa can be used depending on preference or dietary needs.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure canned ingredients are free from cross-contamination.