Save Vibrant, healthy, and bursting with Mexican-American flair, these Skinny Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls are a game-changer for your weekly routine. Featuring lean chicken strips seasoned to perfection and served over zesty cilantro-lime rice, this recipe proves that nutritious eating can be incredibly flavorful and convenient for a busy lunch or dinner on the go.
Save Whether you're looking to simplify your work week or just want a fresh, high-protein meal, these bowls are the ultimate solution. The combination of warm spices and citrus notes makes every bite satisfying and energizing, ensuring you stay fueled throughout the day.
Ingredients
- Chicken Fajitas: 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced), 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green, thinly sliced), 1 medium red onion (thinly sliced), and the juice of 1 lime.
- Cilantro-Lime Rice: 1 cup (200 g) uncooked long grain white rice or brown rice, 2 cups (480 ml) water, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon olive oil, juice and zest of 1 lime, and 1/3 cup (15 g) chopped fresh cilantro.
- For Serving: 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 medium avocado (sliced), and optional lime wedges.
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Rice
- In a saucepan, combine the rice, water, salt, and olive oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (white rice) or 40 minutes (brown rice) until tender. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let cool slightly.
- 2. Season the Rice
- Stir the lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro into the cooked rice. Set this aside.
- 3. Prepare the Chicken
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken strips with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- 4. Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- 5. Sauté Vegetables and Combine
- In the same skillet, add the bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp. Return the chicken to the skillet, add lime juice, and toss to combine before removing from heat.
- 6. Assemble the Bowls
- Divide the cilantro-lime rice among 4 meal prep containers. Top each with the chicken fajita mixture, cherry tomatoes, and avocado slices. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
- 7. Store
- Let the bowls cool before sealing. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
When preparing the chicken, make sure the skillet is properly heated to medium-high to achieve a golden sear. If using brown rice, start the cooking process earlier as it requires a longer simmer time of 40 minutes compared to white rice.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a low-carb option, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice. To add more variety and fiber, consider mixing in black beans or corn. For those who prefer a spicier profile, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra smoked paprika to the spice blend.
Serviervorschläge
These meal prep bowls are delicious served with a side of fresh salsa or a dollop of Greek yogurt for dipping. Extra lime wedges on the side allow for a fresh burst of acidity right before serving, which also helps keep the avocado looking bright.
Save With these Skinny Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowls, you'll have a nutritious and flavorful meal ready to go whenever you are. Enjoy the convenience of healthy eating without sacrificing any of the bold, fresh tastes of a classic fajita!
Recipe FAQ
- → How long do these chicken fajita bowls last in the refrigerator?
These meal prep containers stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored properly in sealed containers in the refrigerator. The cilantro-lime rice and chicken maintain their texture and flavor throughout the week, making them perfect for batch cooking on Sunday for Monday through Thursday lunches.
- → Can I freeze these fajita meal prep bowls?
While technically possible, freezing isn't recommended because the rice texture changes significantly when thawed. The fresh vegetables like bell peppers and avocado also become mushy after freezing. For best results, enjoy these bowls within 4 days of preparation or freeze just the seasoned chicken mixture separately and reheat with freshly made rice.
- → What can I substitute for the cilantro if I don't like it?
Fresh parsley makes an excellent substitute, providing a similar bright green color and fresh herbal note. Alternatively, use chopped green onions or scallions for a mild onion flavor that complements the lime. You can also increase the lime zest and add extra fresh herbs like basil or mint for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- → Is this meal prep bowl actually spicy?
The seasoning blend provides mild to medium heat depending on your spice tolerance. The chili powder and spices create a flavorful warmth rather than intense spiciness. For sensitive palates, reduce the chili powder to half. If you prefer more heat, add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or serve with hot sauce on the side so everyone can customize their bowl.
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely, brown rice works wonderfully and adds extra fiber and nutrients. Just adjust the cooking time to approximately 40 minutes instead of 15 minutes for white rice. You may also need slightly more water—about 2.25 cups instead of 2 cups. Brown rice creates a nuttier flavor and heartier texture that stands up well to the bold fajita seasonings.
- → What's the best way to reheat these meal prep bowls?
Microwave reheating works perfectly for these bowls. Remove the container lid and microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated throughout. For better texture results, transfer to a plate and cover loosely with a paper towel. If you prefer, reheat the chicken and rice separately in a skillet over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, then add fresh avocado and tomatoes after warming.