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Easy Freezer Chicken Fajita Bowls: Best Healthy Meal Prep

freezer chicken fajita bowls - featured image

These easy freezer chicken fajita bowls are the ultimate healthy meal prep solution. Simply toss chicken, peppers, and a zesty seasoning in a freezer bag, then cook from frozen for a quick, delicious dinner in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
  • 3 medium bell peppers (mix of colors), sliced
  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced into half-moons
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lime juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 4 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving
  • 1 large avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)

Instructions

  1. Make the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir until evenly mixed.
  2. Slice the chicken: Place chicken breasts on a cutting board and slice against the grain into thin strips, about 1/2 inch thick.
  3. Slice the vegetables: Cut bell peppers into thin strips, removing seeds and membranes. Slice onion into thin half-moons.
  4. Assemble the bag: In a gallon-sized freezer bag, add sliced chicken, peppers, and onion. Pour in olive oil and lime juice. Sprinkle seasoning mix over everything and add minced garlic.
  5. Massage the bag: Seal the bag, leaving a small opening for air to escape. Squeeze out as much air as possible, then seal completely. Massage the bag until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Label and flatten: Write the date and ‘Chicken Fajita Bowls’ on the bag. Flatten to remove excess air and create an even layer.
  7. Freeze: Lay the bag flat in the freezer. Keeps for up to 3 months.
  8. To cook: Thaw in refrigerator 24 hours before cooking (optional). Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon oil until shimmering. Dump the entire contents of the bag into the hot skillet and spread into an even layer. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes, then stir and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and vegetables are tender with charred edges. Remove from heat and let rest 2 minutes.
  9. Assemble bowls: Warm rice, black beans, and corn. Layer rice at the bottom of each bowl, top with black beans and corn, then spoon the fajita mixture over. Garnish with sour cream or Greek yogurt, avocado slices, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro.

Notes

For best results, thaw the bag in the refrigerator 24 hours before cooking. If cooking from frozen, add 5-7 minutes to cooking time. Do not overcrowd the pan; use a large skillet and let it get hot before adding the mixture. Let the mixture cook undisturbed for the first 4-5 minutes to get a good sear. Taste after cooking and adjust seasoning if needed. Double the batch to have extras on hand.

Nutrition

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