Print

Easy Flavor-Packed Southwest Chicken Burrito Bowl

southwest chicken burrito bowl - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick, healthy, and flavorful Southwest Chicken Burrito Bowl featuring smoky chipotle-lime marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and a rice base. Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder or chipotle in adobo, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 cup long grain white or brown rice
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: handful of chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 avocado, sliced or cubed
  • 1/2 cup fresh salsa or pico de gallo
  • Optional garnishes: shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, Greek yogurt or sour cream, extra lime wedges, chopped fresh cilantro or green onions

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to marinate.
  2. Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil, add rice and salt, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes (white rice) or 40-45 minutes (brown rice). Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro if desired.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until cooked through and browned. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
  4. In the same skillet, add diced red bell pepper and chopped onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened but still crisp. Stir in black beans and corn, warming through for 2 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  5. Assemble bowls by spooning rice, topping with sautéed veggies and beans, sliced chicken, avocado, and fresh salsa. Add optional garnishes as desired.
  6. Serve immediately or mix gently. Squeeze lime wedges over the bowl before eating for extra brightness.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 10 minutes for best flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking chicken to get a good sear. Use fresh lime juice for brightness. Rinse rice to remove excess starch. Store components separately for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken and rice gently and add avocado and salsa fresh to maintain texture. Can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for vegetarian/vegan options. Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for low-carb alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: Southwest chicken, burrito bowl, healthy meal, quick dinner, chipotle lime chicken, meal prep, easy recipe, chicken bowl

Find it online: https://avabake.com/easy-flavor-packed-southwest-chicken-burrito-bowl-recipe-for-quick-healthy-meals/