Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s also good for you? This Spicy Southwest Chicken Burrito Bowl is a perfect healthy chicken bowl option, packed with zesty flavors and satisfying ingredients. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare a delicious and wholesome dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Breast: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Brown Rice: Quinoa or cauliflower rice make great low-carb alternatives.
- Black Beans: Pinto beans also work well.
- Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned (drained) are all fine.
- Avocado: Guacamole can be used in a pinch.
- Greek Yogurt: Sour cream is a classic, but Greek yogurt offers a healthier tang.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 avocado, diced
For the Creamy Drizzle (Optional):
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories Per Serving: Approx. 450 calories
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, mixing bowls, sharp knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry and slice them into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked through and slightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Assemble Your Bowls
Divide the cooked brown rice among four bowls. Top each with a generous serving of the cooked chicken, black beans, corn, and diced red onion.
4. Make the Creamy Drizzle (Optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt until smooth. This adds a delicious creamy element to your healthy chicken bowl.
5. Garnish and Serve
Finish your Spicy Southwest Chicken Burrito Bowls by adding diced avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to each. Drizzle with the creamy Greek yogurt sauce if you made it, and enjoy!
Variation Ideas:
- Add bell peppers or sautéed onions for more veggies.
- Include a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra richness.
- Spice it up with a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add crushed tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Spicy Southwest Chicken Burrito Bowl components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop, then add fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I meal prep these Healthy Chicken Bowls?
A: Yes, you can! Cook the chicken and rice ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble your bowls when ready to eat, adding fresh ingredients like avocado at the last minute.
Q: What if I don’t like spicy food?
A: You can reduce or omit the chili powder and smoked paprika from the chicken seasoning. The other flavors are still delicious!
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, simply shred or dice it and add it to your bowls, skipping the chicken cooking step.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this Spicy Southwest Chicken Burrito Bowl recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Q: What kind of rice is best for Healthy Chicken Bowls?
A: Brown rice is great for its fiber content, but white rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice work wonderfully.
Q: How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
A: Sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or a handful of fresh spinach can be easily incorporated into your Healthy Chicken Bowl for extra nutrients.