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Homemade Chili Lime Chicken and Rice Meal Prep Bowls photo

Chili Lime Chicken and Rice Meal Prep Bowls

Zesty chili-lime chicken served with rice and peppers for easy make-ahead meal prep.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs or 4 small pieces
  • 2 cups sliced bell peppers optional
  • 4 cups cooked rice of choice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice or juice of 1 lime
  • 2 teaspoons lime zest or zest of 1 lime
  • 2-3 cloves garlic minced or crushed
  • 1/4 cup cilantro minced
  • 4 tablespoons oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin optional
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 meal-prep containers

Equipment

  • Large Bowl
  • Grill or skillet
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring Cups
  • 4 meal-prep containers

Method
 

  1. Whisk together lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, minced cilantro, oil, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin (if using), salt, and black pepper in a large bowl to make the marinade.
  2. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss until fully coated in the marinade; let sit for a few minutes while you preheat the cooking surface.
  3. Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high and lightly grease with oil or nonstick spray.
  4. Cook the chicken 5–8 minutes per side, until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Discard any excess marinade and transfer chicken to a cutting board to rest 5 minutes, then slice.
  5. While the chicken rests, add the sliced bell peppers to the same hot pan and cook 3–4 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
  6. Let the chicken and peppers cool to room temperature before assembling.
  7. Divide 1 cup cooked rice among the 4 meal-prep containers, then evenly distribute the sliced chicken and cooked peppers into each container. Seal and refrigerate.

Notes

  • Use either chicken breasts or thighs based on preference.
  • Bell peppers are optional but add color and texture.
  • Discard leftover marinade after removing raw chicken.
  • Let cooked chicken rest before slicing for juicier meat.