Craving a burst of flavor that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico? Look no further than this Mexican Inspired Chicken Bowl! Packed with savory chicken, hearty black beans, and the fresh zing of avocado, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a wholesome meal that serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by cutting chicken breast into uniform small dice, approximately 1/2 inch cubes for even cooking.
- Season diced chicken with chili powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the spices.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of cooking oil, about 1 tablespoon.
- Add seasoned chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through with internal temperature reaching 165°F.
- While chicken is cooking, warm the black beans and corn in a separate pan or microwave, draining any excess liquid.
- Prepare rice according to package instructions if not already cooked, ensuring it is fluffy and separated.
- Slice the avocado into thin, even pieces and set aside.
- Assemble the bowls by first placing a base of warm rice, then topping with cooked chicken, black beans, and corn.
- Spoon salsa over the ingredients and garnish with fresh sliced avocado.
- Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro on top for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve immediately while ingredients are still warm, and enjoy your Mexican-inspired chicken bowl.
Tips
- Uniform Chicken Pieces: For even cooking, ensure that your chicken breast is diced into uniform 1/2 inch cubes. This helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust on every piece.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the chili powder, salt, and pepper! A well-seasoned chicken is the key to a flavorful bowl. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste.
- Skillet Temperature: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. A medium-high heat will help sear the chicken, locking in the juices and flavor.
- Warm Your Ingredients: To enhance the overall experience, warm the black beans and corn before adding them to your bowl. This keeps everything at a deliciously cozy temperature.
- Perfect Rice: If you're cooking your rice from scratch, fluff it with a fork after cooking to prevent clumping and ensure a light texture.
- Avocado Freshness: Slice your avocado just before serving to maintain its freshness and vibrant color. A sprinkle of lime juice can also help prevent browning.
- Garnish for Flavor: Fresh cilantro isn’t just for decoration; it adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Don’t skip this step!
- Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add other toppings like shredded cheese, jalapeños, or sour cream to make your chicken bowl even more indulgent!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg
