Meal Prep Baked Lime Chicken Bowls are a fresh, zesty, and protein-packed meal perfect for busy weekdays. Juicy, oven-baked chicken is marinated in a tangy lime and herb sauce, then served with wholesome sides like rice, quinoa, or roasted veggies. These bowls are easy to make, full of bold flavors, and great for meal prepping!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy meal prep: Perfect for making ahead and enjoying all week.
- Healthy and balanced: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and fresh flavors.
- Zesty and flavorful: Lime, garlic, and spices make the chicken extra delicious.
- Customizable: Pair with different grains and veggies to keep it exciting.
- Great for any diet: Naturally gluten-free, with dairy-free and low-carb options.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken Marinade:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Olive oil
- Fresh lime juice
- Garlic (minced)
- Honey or maple syrup (for a touch of sweetness)
- Cumin
- Paprika
- Salt and black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
For the Bowls:
- Cooked brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
- Roasted or steamed veggies (broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini)
- Black beans or chickpeas (optional)
- Avocado slices
- Fresh lime wedges
Directions
1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, honey, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Bake the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the chicken on the sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice or shred.
3. Assemble the Bowls
- Divide cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice among meal prep containers.
- Add sliced chicken, roasted veggies, and black beans (if using).
- Top with fresh avocado, lime wedges, and chopped cilantro.
4. Store and Enjoy!
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days in airtight containers.
- Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding fresh lime juice for extra flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 4 meal prep bowls
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Marinating time: 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours)
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes (plus marinating)
Variations
- Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or a salad.
- Spicy version: Add extra chili powder or hot sauce to the marinade.
- Dairy-free: Skip cheese toppings or sauces that contain dairy.
- Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
- Extra crunch: Add toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped almonds before serving.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight meal prep containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months without avocado (add fresh after thawing).
- Reheating: Microwave for 1-2 minutes, or enjoy cold as a refreshing bowl.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs stay extra juicy and work great for this recipe.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grill over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side.
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Avoid overcooking and let the chicken rest before slicing.
What’s the best grain for meal prep bowls?
Brown rice and quinoa hold up well for several days.
Can I add a dressing or sauce?
Yes! A drizzle of avocado cilantro dressing or Greek yogurt lime sauce works well.
What veggies go best with this bowl?
Bell peppers, zucchini, roasted sweet potatoes, or corn are great options.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
Squeeze fresh lime juice over it and store in an airtight container.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before using.
Can I eat this bowl cold?
Yes! It’s delicious both warm and cold.
Conclusion
Meal Prep Baked Lime Chicken Bowls are an easy, nutritious, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy days. With juicy lime-marinated chicken, wholesome grains, and fresh toppings, these bowls make healthy eating simple and delicious. Try them today for a meal prep win!
PrintMeal Prep Baked Lime Chicken Bowls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican, Southwest
Description
These baked lime chicken bowls are flavorful, juicy, and perfect for meal prep! Paired with rice, veggies, and a creamy avocado sauce, they make a healthy and delicious lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Lime Chicken:
- 1 1/2 pounds (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice (or quinoa)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced (add before serving)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce (Optional):
- 1/2 avocado
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons water (to thin, as needed)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Marinate the Chicken – In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
-
Bake the Chicken – Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
-
Prepare the Bowls – Divide cooked rice, tomatoes, black beans, corn, and red onion into 4 meal prep containers.
-
Make the Avocado Sauce – Blend all sauce ingredients until smooth. Store separately and drizzle before serving.
-
Assemble & Store – Add sliced chicken to each bowl. Garnish with avocado slices and fresh cilantro before serving.
-
Enjoy! Refrigerate for up to 4 days and reheat before eating.
Notes
✔ Low-Carb? Swap rice for cauliflower rice or mixed greens.
✔ Extra Spicy? Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
✔ Dairy-Free? Skip yogurt in the sauce or use coconut yogurt.
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