Are you ready to elevate your meal prep game with a burst of zesty flavor? Dive into the delicious world of Meal Prep Baked Lime Chicken Bowls, where juicy chicken breasts meet the vibrant tang of lime, creating a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly nutritious! In just 40 minutes, you can whip up four hearty servings that are perfect for busy weekdays. Say goodbye to boring lunches and hello to a colorful, flavorful feast that will keep you energized all day long! Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups brown rice, cooked
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and even cooking.
- Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
- Transfer marinated chicken to the prepared baking sheet, spreading pieces evenly without overcrowding.
- Bake chicken in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- While chicken is baking, cook brown rice according to package instructions and steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp.
- Slice bell peppers into thin strips for added crunch and nutrition.
- Once chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips or cubes.
- Assemble meal prep bowls by dividing rice, chicken, broccoli, and bell peppers evenly into 4 containers.
- Allow bowls to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating. These can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For an even more intense lime flavor, consider marinating the chicken for up to an hour in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, making each bite irresistible.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh lime juice instead of bottled. The freshness will enhance the taste of your chicken and make your meal prep bowls even more delightful.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out the broccoli and bell peppers for your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, asparagus, or snap peas would all make excellent additions!
- Check Chicken Temperature: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This guarantees safety and juiciness.
- Meal Prep Storage: Let your meal prep bowls cool completely before sealing them. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make your rice soggy.
- Reheating Tips: When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Add a splash of lime juice before eating for an extra zing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
