Craving a burst of flavor that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico? Look no further! Our Chipotle Chicken Bowls with Pineapple Salsa are not just a meal; they’re a fiesta in a bowl! This delightful dish combines tender, spicy chipotle chicken with a refreshing pineapple salsa that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a culinary masterpiece that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon chipotle seasoning
- 1 cup brown rice
- 1 cup pineapple, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients and equipment. You will need a cutting board, a sharp knife, a medium saucepan, a large skillet, and mixing bowls.
- Rinse the brown rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of brown rice with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- While the rice is cooking, prepare the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with the chipotle seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a splash of oil (about 1 tablespoon) to the skillet. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the pineapple salsa. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced pineapple, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt to taste. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Once the chicken has rested, slice it into strips. Fluff the cooked brown rice with a fork and divide it evenly among four serving bowls.
- Top each bowl of rice with sliced chipotle chicken and a generous scoop of the pineapple salsa. You can also add additional toppings such as avocado, shredded cheese, or sour cream if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Chipotle Chicken Bowls with Pineapple Salsa!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can marinate the chicken in chipotle seasoning a few hours before cooking. This will enhance the flavor even more!
- Rice Variation: If you’re looking for a quicker option, consider using pre-cooked brown rice or even quinoa for a nutritious twist.
- Salsa Customization: Feel free to customize your pineapple salsa! Add diced jalapeños for extra heat or swap out pineapple for mango for a different tropical flair.
- Cooking Chicken: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear. This locks in the juices and creates a delicious crust.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time for the chicken! Letting it rest allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender and flavorful.
- Serving Suggestions: For a complete meal, consider adding sides like black beans or a simple green salad. Toppings like sliced avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream can elevate your bowls even further.
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers. Reheat the chicken and rice, and enjoy the flavors again the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
