Southwest Chicken Bowl Recipe
Description:
This Southwest Chicken Bowl is a vibrant, nutrient-packed meal that brings together grilled chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and a zesty lime-cilantro rice. Topped with a smoky chipotle dressing, it’s a wholesome and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Prep Time & Cook Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Bowl:
1 cup uncooked brown or white rice
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
Optional Toppings:
Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Jalapeño slices
Tortilla strips or crushed chips
For the Chipotle Dressing:
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tbsp adobo sauce (from canned chipotles in adobo)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp lime juice
Salt to taste
Water to thin, if needed
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Coat chicken breasts in the marinade and let rest for at least 15 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).
Cook the Rice:
Cook rice according to package instructions.
When done, fluff with a fork and mix in chopped cilantro and lime juice.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Grill chicken 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
Rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
Prepare the Dressing:
Mix yogurt, adobo sauce, lime juice, garlic, and salt in a bowl until smooth. Add water to reach desired consistency.
Assemble the Bowls:
In each bowl, layer rice, black beans, corn, tomatoes, avocado, and grilled chicken.
Drizzle with chipotle dressing and add any optional toppings.
Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated):
Calories: ~540
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 10g
Sugars: 4g
Sodium: 520mg
Note: Values may vary based on exact ingredients and quantities used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare all components separately and store in the fridge. Assemble before eating. Great for meal prep.
Q: What can I use instead of chicken?
A: Try grilled shrimp, steak, tofu, or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as all packaged items (like chipotle in adobo) are certified gluten-free.
Q: Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
A: Absolutely. Quinoa adds protein and works great with Southwest flavors.
Q: How spicy is this?
A: Mild to medium. Adjust the a
dobo sauce and chili powder to control heat.