Chicken Fajita Bowls With Cilantro Lime Quinoa (A Family Favorite)

Hello there! 

As a busy woman myself, I totally get how hectic life can be. 

Balancing work, family, and everything in between is a real challenge. But don’t worry, because I’ve got a fabulous solution for you! 

Get ready to embark on a flavor-packed journey with one of my all-time favorite family meal prep recipes

Chicken Fajita Bowls with Cilantro Lime Quinoa. (It’s a game-changer)

Imagine this: succulent chicken, sizzling bell peppers, and onions, all seasoned to perfection with those oh-so-tasty fajita spices. 

And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, I take it up a notch by serving it alongside fluffy cilantro lime quinoa.

(Talk about an extraordinary culinary combination!)

The best part? Even meal prep beginners can effortlessly create these mouthwatering chicken fajita bowls ahead of time.

Saving you valuable minutes and ensuring a delectable meal that will satisfy everyone.

Let’s dive into the incredible world of meal prepping and discover how chicken fajita bowls with cilantro lime quinoa will revolutionize your family’s dining experience. 

Buckle up, my friend, because you’re about to embark on a delicious adventure.

Let’s get cooking!

Amazing Benefits of Chicken Fajita Bowls with Cilantro Lime Quinoa

When it comes to family meal prep, chicken fajita bowls with cilantro lime quinoa are the superheroes you’ve been waiting for!

Let’s unleash their amazing benefits together:

  • Nutritional Balance: This recipe hits the bullseye in terms of nutrition.

    Packed with lean chicken, colorful veggies, and quinoa, it’s a powerhouse of protein, vitamins, and fiber, perfect for healthy-eating meal prep.

    (It’s a nutrient-packed punch that fuels your family’s wellness)
  • Lightning-Fast Convenience: (Say goodbye to kitchen stress!)

    By prepping these bowls in advance, you’re granting yourself a lightning-fast mealtime victory.

    During those busy weekdays, you can simply grab a pre-made bowl, heat it up, and voila! A delicious feast is ready in minutes.
  • Portability and On-the-Go Meals: Every superhero has their own style, right?

    Well, my chicken fajita bowls can be customized to match each family member’s taste buds.

    Add extra toppings, sauces, or even a touch of culinary wizardry to ensure each bowl is tailor-made for maximum enjoyment.

    That even your picky eater’s kids won’t be able to resist.
  • Cost-effectiveness and Reduced Food Waste: Whether it’s conquering the school lunch break or embarking on outdoor escapades.

    These pre-portioned bowls are your trusty sidekicks. They’re perfectly portable, allowing you to savor your scrumptious chicken fajita bowls anytime, anywhere.
  • Saving the World—One Budget at a Time: Meal prepping is not only a superpower for your taste buds but also for your wallet!

    It slashes food waste, helps you plan portion sizes effectively, and keeps those takeout expenses in check.

    Embrace cost-effective heroism while delighting in homemade goodness.

With these extraordinary perks in mind, let’s uncover the secrets to preparing chicken fajita bowls with cilantro lime quinoa.

And make them the triumphant champions of your family’s meal prep routine. 

Chicken Fajita Bowls With Cilantro Lime Quinoa

Recipe by TealnotesCourse: MainDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Calories

418

kcal

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken Fajitas:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

  • 2 bell peppers, thinly sliced (choose your preferred colors)

  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • For the Cilantro Lime Quinoa:

  • 1 cup quinoa

  • 2 cups water

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Salt to taste

  • Optional Toppings:

  • Salsa

  • Guacamole

  • Sour cream

  • Shredded cheese

Directions

  • Let’s start with the chicken! In a bowl, mix the thinly sliced chicken with fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper.

    Give it a good toss to coat the chicken evenly. Set it aside and let the flavors mingle for about 10 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, give the quinoa a rinse under cold water to bid farewell to any bitterness.

    In a saucepan, bring water to a lively boil. Include the washed quinoa and a dash of salt.

    Reduce the heat to low, cover it up, and let it simmer for around 15 minutes until the water is absorbed, and the quinoa becomes tender.

    Once it’s done, fluff it up with a fork and sprinkle in the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Keep it aside for now.
  • Now it’s time to sizzle! Warm up a generous amount of olive oil in a spacious frying pan over medium-high heat.

    Add the marinated chicken and let it cook for about 5-6 minutes per side.

    Look out for that perfect brown sear and ensure the chicken is fully cooked and set the chicken aside.
  • In the same skillet, throw in those beautiful sliced bell peppers and onions.

    Sauté them for 5-7 minutes until they become tender and develop a hint of caramelized goodness. You will want those veggies to be flavorful!
  • Let’s bring it all together now. Grab four meal prep containers or bowls and divide the cooked cilantro lime quinoa among them.

    Top your quinoa with the sautéed bell peppers, onions, and those mouthwatering cooked chicken slices.

    Oh, but we’re not done yet! Sprinkle on your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and shredded cheese. You deserve it all!
  • Take a step back, admire your culinary masterpiece, and get ready to savor the deliciousness.

Prepare these chicken fajita bowls with cilantro lime quinoa in advance.

And you’ll have a flavorful, nutritious meal ready to go whenever you need it or even when you need a healthy dinner for your busy family.

Enjoy the burst of flavors and the convenience of this delicious chicken meal prep recipe!

Easy Variations To Customize your chicken fajita bowls with cilantro lime quinoa

Let’s explore some exciting ways to enjoy chicken fajita bowls with cilantro lime quinoa and add a delicious twist to your meal prep.

Rice Bowl Variation

Want to switch things up and give your taste buds a new adventure? Try this tasty twist: swap out the quinoa and go for cooked rice instead.

Picture this—a medley of tender chicken, sautéed bell peppers, and onions, all piled on a fluffy bed of rice. (It’s pure comfort in a bowl!)

Go for white rice, brown rice, or even fragrant jasmine rice to create your perfect combination.

The fusion of fajita flavors and rice will ignite a fireworks display of taste sensations, leaving your family craving for more. (It’s an absolute must-try!)

Vegetarian Option

Sliced tofu on a wooden bowl

Calling all vegetarians and plant-based pals! You too can join the flavor fiesta. Simply replace the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh, and voila!

An enticing protein-packed alternative. Marinate the tofu or tempeh with fajita seasoning, lime juice, and a touch of olive oil for that lip-smacking goodness.

Sauté or grill until beautifully browned and bursting with flavor.

This vegetarian version of chicken fajita bowls ensures you get a satisfying and nourishing meal, all while embracing your plant-powered lifestyle.

Sheet Pan Cooking

Busy bee alert! If you crave convenience without sacrificing taste, I’ve got you covered. Time to whip out that trusty sheet pan!

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), toss the sliced bell peppers, onions, and marinated chicken with olive oil and fajita seasoning on the sheet pan.

And let the magic happen.

Roast everything in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tantalizingly charred.

Sheet pan cooking delivers the same mouthwatering flavors of chicken fajita bowls with the added bonus of easy cleanup. (Win-win!)

Feel free to get creative and experiment with these serving suggestions. Customize this quick and easy recipe to suit your palate and dietary needs.

Whether you choose rice bowl variation, embrace the vegetarian twist, or opt for hassle-free sheet pan cooking.

Each variation promises to spice up your chicken fajita bowl experience.

Masterful Storage and Freezing hacks For your Chicken Fajita Bowls

To keep your chicken fajita bowls with cilantro lime quinoa fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage steps.

Ultimate Storage Suggestions

  • Allow your prepared bowls to cool completely before storing them.

    Hot and stuffy? (Not for our bowls!)

  • Transfer your bowls into airtight containers for meal prep, sealing in the flavors and keeping out any unwanted moisture or odors. Let’s keep it fresh!

  • Don’t play the guessing game—label your containers with the date of preparation. (You’ll thank yourself later!)

  • Pop those bowls in the refrigerator, making sure it’s set below 40°F (4°C).

With these storage tips, your chicken fajita bowls with cilantro lime quinoa will stay tasty and ready to devour for up to 4-5 days. (Freshness guaranteed!)

Revolutionary Freezing Techniques

Ready to give your bowls an icy hug? Follow these meal prep for freezing tips to extend their shelf life:

  • Allow the cooked fajita mixture and quinoa to cool down completely. (Patience is a virtue, my friend!)

  • Separate the fajita mixture and quinoa into individual airtight containers or freezer bags.

  • Make sure those containers or bags are tightly sealed to prevent any pesky freezer burn. (I’m all about long-lasting freshness here!)

  • Date and contents are the stars of the label show. Your future self will thank you for the freezer-friendly clarity.

  • Pop those containers in the freezer, aiming for a temperature below 0°F (-18°C). Let the freezing magic happen!


When the craving strikes, thaw your frozen chicken fajita bowls with cilantro lime quinoa overnight in the refrigerator. 

Reheat the fajita mixture and quinoa separately, then assemble the bowls for a convenient and flavorsome meal.

(Your future self will be grateful for this freezer time-saver!)

With these meal-prepping ideas, you can keep your chicken fajita bowls with cilantro lime quinoa happy and ready to enjoy—even when life gets busy.

(It’s meal prep made easy!)

Chicken fajita bowls with cilantro lime quinoa are the ultimate meal prep solution that combines flavor, convenience, and nutrition. 

Say goodbye to frantic meal preparation and hello to quick, satisfying lunches or dinners throughout the week. 

Customize your bowls with variations like rice, alternative grains, or a vegetarian twist for added excitement. 

Store them in the fridge for up to 4-5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months, ensuring you always have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go. 

Embrace the convenience and incredible flavors of chicken fajita bowls with cilantro lime quinoa, and embark on your journey to effortless, wholesome meals. 

Bon appétit!

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FAQ

Why is Chicken Fajitas Healthy?

Chicken fajitas are a healthy option due to their nutritious ingredients. 

Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, while bell peppers and onions provide essential vitamins and minerals. 

By using minimal oil and seasoning, fajitas can be a low-calorie and low-fat choice. 

Additionally, fajitas often incorporate whole grains, such as quinoa or whole wheat tortillas, adding fiber to the meal for improved digestion and satiety.

How to Eat Fajitas Healthy?

To enjoy fajitas in a healthy way, opt for grilled or sautéed lean proteins like chicken or shrimp instead of fried alternatives. 

Load up on colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, which are packed with nutrients. 

Use whole-grain tortillas or lettuce wraps as a lighter alternative to refined flour tortillas. 

Limit the amount of high-fat toppings like sour cream and cheese, and instead, add fresh salsa or guacamole for flavor.

How are Fajitas Served?

Fajitas are typically served as a customizable dish, allowing each person to assemble their own creation. 

The components are usually served separately, including grilled or sautéed meat (commonly chicken or beef), sliced bell peppers, and onions.

Tortillas or lettuce wraps, and various toppings like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese.

This serving style allows individuals to personalize their fajitas according to their taste preferences and dietary needs.

Why is it Called a Fajita?

The term “fajita” originated from the Spanish word “faja,” which means “belt” or “sash.”

Fajitas got their name because the dish traditionally includes marinated and grilled strips of meat (usually skirt steak).

They are cut against the grain, resulting in long, thin pieces resembling a belt or sash.

Over time, the term “fajita” evolved to refer to the entire dish, including the meat, vegetables, and accompanying tortillas.

Do You Put Cheese in Fajitas?

While cheese is not a traditional ingredient in fajitas, it is a common addition for added flavor and richness.

Some people enjoy adding shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, as a topping to their fajitas.

However, the use of cheese in fajitas is a matter of personal preference.

For a healthier option, consider using reduced-fat cheese or moderate the amount to control the calorie and fat content.

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