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Easy Flavor-Packed Meal Prep Chicken Burrito Bowls for 5 Days of Perfect Lunches

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A quick and easy meal prep recipe featuring smoky, spicy marinated chicken, cilantro lime rice, black beans, and corn, perfect for flavorful lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice and zest of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, diced avocado or guacamole, fresh salsa or pico de gallo, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, pickled jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (minimum 10 minutes if short on time).
  2. Cook the rice: Rinse rice under cold water until clear. In a medium saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil. Add rice and salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
  3. Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  4. Prepare beans and corn: In the same skillet, add black beans, corn, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
  5. Assemble the bowls: Divide cilantro lime rice evenly among five meal prep containers. Top with chicken and black beans & corn mixture. Add optional toppings as desired. Let cool before sealing and refrigerating.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking chicken to get a good sear. Rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch. Let bowls cool before sealing to avoid soggy rice. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to keep chicken juicy. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Freezing is possible but may affect rice texture; freeze components separately if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: meal prep, chicken burrito bowl, easy lunch, cilantro lime rice, black beans, healthy meal, make ahead, gluten-free

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/easy-flavor-packed-meal-prep-chicken-burrito-bowls-for-5-days-of-perfect-lunches/