Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Bowls

Discover the vibrant flavors of our Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls. Combining juicy grilled chicken with sautéed peppers and onions, all served over a bed of fluffy rice, this dish is designed for busy weeks. Perfectly balanced with wholesome ingredients, it offers a healthy, gluten-free, and high-protein meal that keeps well in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners.

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This dish brings the zest of Mexican-inspired spices to your weekly menu, marrying smoky paprika and chili powder aromas with tangy lime juice. Easy to prepare, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time to let the flavors develop, then cook everything in one skillet for minimal cleanup.

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. Cook 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 and store

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 enhance the texture and flavor, consider using a grill pan for the chicken and vegetables to add extra char and smokiness. Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the spices. Make sure to slice vegetables evenly so they cook uniformly.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp depending on your dietary preference. For a lower-carb alternative, swap the rice with cauliflower rice. Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or shredded cheese before serving brings an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.

Serviervorschläge

These bowls are great on their own but can be paired with a fresh side salad or a light soup for a complete meal. Garnish with extra lime wedges and enjoy with a cold Mexican-style soda or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.

Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.

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With its balance of fresh, bold flavors and nutrient-packed ingredients, the Make-Ahead Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls offer a delightful way to enjoy Mexican-inspired cuisine any day of the week. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, they make healthy eating both convenient and delicious.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?

Yes, tofu or shrimp can be used as alternatives to chicken, maintaining protein variety and flavor.

→ What rice options work best with this dish?

Brown rice, white rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice can be used depending on dietary preferences.

→ How should I store the bowls for freshness?

Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator, keeping avocado and cilantro separate until serving to preserve freshness.

→ Can I add other toppings or flavors?

Yes, adding Greek yogurt or shredded cheese before serving enhances creaminess and flavor complexity.

→ Are there allergen concerns with this dish?

The dish is free from major allergens, but check spices and canned beans for potential gluten contamination.