Southwest Chicken Bowl
The Southwest Chicken Bowl is a delicious and vibrant meal that brings together a fantastic mix of flavors and textures. This bowl is perfect for lunch or dinner and is packed with protein, veggies, and tasty toppings. It’s a great choice for those who love bold flavors and want to enjoy a hearty, healthy meal.
Why Make This Recipe
Making the Southwest Chicken Bowl is easy and fulfilling. It’s packed with nutrients and offers a variety of food groups in one dish. This recipe allows you to customize each bowl with your favorite toppings, making it fun for everyone. Plus, it’s great for meal prep, so you can enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week!
How to Make Southwest Chicken Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 cup roasted corn
- 1 cup pico de gallo or salsa
- 1 avocado, diced
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp cumin
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Directions:
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In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this flavorful mixture all over the chicken breasts.
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Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Grill or pan-sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing into juicy strips.
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While the chicken is resting, warm the black beans and corn in a saucepan over low heat. Feel free to add extra seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of lime juice for an extra kick.
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In another bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the cilantro-lime dressing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
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Time to build those bowls! Divide the cooked rice among 4 bowls and top each with black beans, corn, chicken, salsa, diced avocado, and a sprinkle of cheese.
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Finish it off with a generous drizzle of the cilantro-lime dressing. If you want to be fancy, garnish with additional cilantro or lime wedges for that perfect touch!
How to Serve Southwest Chicken Bowl
Serve your Southwest Chicken Bowl warm. You can add extra lime wedges and cilantro on the side for those who want more flavor. This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends.
How to Store Southwest Chicken Bowl
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can keep it for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a little water when warming in the microwave to keep everything moist and delicious.
Tips to Make Southwest Chicken Bowl
- Marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor.
- Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add more toppings like jalapeños or olives for extra zest.
- Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with grilled veggies or tofu.
Variation
You can switch up this recipe by using different proteins, like shrimp or beef. You can also try different beans such as kidney beans or pinto beans to mix up the flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken, rice, and toppings ahead of time. Just store them separately and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat.
2. What if I don’t have some of the spices?
No problem! You can skip any spices you don’t have or substitute with taco seasoning or other spices you prefer.
3. Is the Southwest Chicken Bowl healthy?
Yes, it is! It is packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and plenty of veggies, making it a nutritious meal option.
Enjoy your cooking and savor every bite of the Southwest Chicken Bowl!
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