The Southwest Chicken Bowl is a flavorful and hearty meal that combines tender, seasoned chicken with a mix of colourful veggies and grains. The chicken is usually spiced with Southwest seasonings and then paired with ingredients like black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado.
The dish often features a base of rice or quinoa and is topped with fresh cilantro and a zesty dressing.
To serve, dish up the Southwest Chicken Bowl in individual bowls. It’s great as a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with a side of tortilla chips or a light salad for added crunch and freshness.
This bowl is perfect for lunch or dinner and is a delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal with a kick of Southwest flavour.
Overview: How To Make Southwest Chicken Bowl Recipe?
Step 1: Cook the Chicken Season chicken breasts with chilli powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-cook the chicken over medium-high heat until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes per side. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Cook 1 cup of rice according to the package instructions. For extra flavor, you can cook it with some chicken broth or add a squeeze of lime juice after cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables In a bowl, combine diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, corn (fresh or frozen), and black beans. You can lightly sauté the vegetables if you prefer them warm.
Step 4: Make the Dressing Mix together sour cream with a bit of lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. For a bit more zest, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl In each serving bowl, start with a base of rice. Top with slices of grilled chicken, mixed vegetables, and a dollop of the sour cream dressing.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Add some fresh avocado slices, shredded cheese, and a handful of chopped cilantro on top. Serve with lime wedges for extra flavor. Enjoy your flavorful Southwest Chicken Bowl!
Why I Love This Recipe?
I love this recipe because it combines vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients into a comforting one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
The mix of sautéed vegetables, aromatic spices, and tender chicken creates a deliciously flavorful base that’s perfectly complemented by the creamy cheese and fresh lime juice.
The addition of black beans and corn adds great texture and nutrition, making this dish a well-rounded choice for any meal.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to be customized with your favourite garnishes or sides. It’s a perfect go-to for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Southwest Chicken Bowl Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Olive oil
- 1 small Yellow onion diced
- 1 Red bell pepper diced
- 1 yellow Bell pepper diced
- 1 Poblano chili diced
- 3-4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 cup Basmati white rice
- 2 cups Chicken broth
- 1 cup Salsa
- 1 can 15 oz Black beans, drained and rinsed
- Seasonings: 1 tsp chili powder 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp kosher salt, ¾ tsp coriander, ½ tsp oregano, pinch of cayenne and black pepper
- 2 cups Cooked diced chicken
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup fresh Cilantro chopped
- 1 cup Yellow corn
- 1 cup Mexican cheese blend shredded
- Optional garnishes: cilantro lime, tortilla strips, sour cream, avocado
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, bell peppers, and poblano pepper until softened (4-5 minutes). Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in rice to coat the grains. Add chicken broth, salsa, black beans, and seasonings. Mix well.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 25 minutes or until rice is cooked. Fluff with a fork.
- Stir in cooked chicken, lime juice, cilantro, and corn. Top with cheese, cover, and let it melt (2-3 minutes).
- Serve in bowls with optional garnishes like cilantro, lime, tortilla strips, sour cream, or avocado.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 365Â kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Sodium | 788mg |
| Cholesterol | 71mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Tips You May Find Helpful!
- Marinate the Chicken for Extra Flavor
For the most flavorful chicken, marinate it in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic, and chili powder for at least 30 minutes. This not only infuses the chicken with bold Southwest flavors but also helps tenderize the meat. - Use Fresh Vegetables
Incorporate a variety of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, black beans, and tomatoes. Roasting or grilling the vegetables before adding them to the bowl enhances their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that complements the chicken. - Layer Ingredients Thoughtfully
Arrange your bowl with a base of grains like quinoa, rice, or lettuce, then layer the chicken, vegetables, and toppings. This layering helps ensure each bite is well-balanced and allows you to enjoy a mix of flavors and textures in every mouthful. - Add a Flavorful Dressing or Sauce
Top your Southwest Chicken Bowl with a zesty dressing or sauce to tie all the flavors together. A cilantro lime dressing, creamy avocado sauce, or a spicy chipotle dressing adds an extra layer of taste and brings the whole dish together.
What To Serve With Southwest Chicken Bowl Recipe?
Frequently Asked Questions for Southwest Chicken Bowl Recipe!
Can I Use A Different Type Of Protein?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with other proteins like beef, pork, or tofu. If using beef or pork, make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the bowl. For a vegetarian option, tofu or beans like black beans or chickpeas are great alternatives. Adjust the seasoning to match the protein you choose.
How Do I Make The Southwest Chicken Bowl Spicier?
To make the Southwest Chicken Bowl spicier, you can add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the seasoning mix. For extra heat, you can also include sliced jalapeños or diced green chilies in the bowl. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
Can I Make The Chicken Bowl Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and other components of the bowl ahead of time. Cook the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also prepare the rice or quinoa and any additional toppings in advance. Assemble the bowls just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What Can I Use As A Topping For The Southwest Chicken Bowl?
There are many delicious toppings you can add to your Southwest Chicken Bowl. Consider adding shredded cheese, avocado slices, sour cream, or a dollop of salsa. Fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice also make great additions. Customize your bowl with your favorite toppings for extra flavor and texture.