What are Southwest chicken bowls?

Southwest chicken bowls are flavorful, all-in-one meals made with seasoned chicken, rice, vegetables, and bold southwest-inspired toppings. These Southwest chicken bowls recipes are popular because they’re filling, customizable, and easy to prepare for lunch or dinner.

What ingredients are used in this Southwest chicken bowls recipe?

This Southwest chicken bowls recipe includes seasoned chicken, rice, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and a creamy cilantro lime sauce. Everything is layered into a bowl so you get protein, carbs, and vegetables in every bite.

Can I make Southwest chicken bowls with rice?

Yes, this recipe is made as Southwest chicken bowls with rice. Cilantro lime rice is used as the base, but you can also substitute brown rice, jasmine rice, or quinoa depending on your preference.

Are Southwest chicken bowls healthy?

Southwest chicken bowls can be healthy when made with lean chicken, whole ingredients, and balanced portions. This Southwest chicken bowls healthy option provides protein from chicken, fiber from beans and vegetables, and energy from rice.

Are these easy southwest chicken bowls for busy weeknights?

Yes, these are easy southwest chicken bowls that work well for busy weeknights. The chicken and rice can be cooked ahead of time, and the bowls come together quickly when you’re ready to eat.

Can I meal prep these Southwest chicken bowls?

Absolutely. These easy southwest chicken bowls are great for meal prep. Store the chicken, rice, and vegetables separately and assemble throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.

Can I customize this Southwest chicken bowls recipe?

Yes, one of the best parts of Southwest chicken bowls recipes is how customizable they are. You can add avocado, salsa, cheese, extra veggies, or swap the rice for a different base to fit your needs.

How much protein is in a Southwest chicken bowl?

The amount of protein in a Southwest chicken bowl depends on the cut of chicken used. Chicken breast is higher in protein than chicken thighs, while black beans also add plant-based protein and fiber, making the bowls filling and balanced.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Southwest chicken bowls with rice in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best texture and flavor, keep the sauce separate and add it just before serving.

Can I make these bowls spicier or milder?

Yes, the spice level is easy to adjust. Add more chili powder or hot sauce for extra heat, or reduce the seasoning to keep these Southwest chicken bowls mild and family-friendly.

Southwest Chicken Bowls [Spicy Chipotle]

Description

Southwest Chicken Bowls are loaded with fresh, wholesome ingredients! In the bowls, you’ll find chipotle-seasoned chicken, southwest-style sauteed veggies, fluffy rice, and a delicious cilantro lime crema.

Ingredients

Units Scale

CHIPOTLE CHICKEN:

2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs (breast for higher protein, thighs for better flavor)
cooking spray or drizzled oil (I use avocado oil)
1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

SAUTEED SOUTHWEST VEGGIES:

1/4 cup avocado or olive oil
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional)
1 1/2 cups red bell pepper, diced
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed if canned
1 cup corn (see notes)
1/2 cup scallions
1/4 cup cilantro

CILANTRO LIME RICE (OR USE YOUR FAV BASE):

Easy Oven Baked Rice Recipe (doubled)
1/2 or 1 lime, juiced
handful cilantro, minced

CILANTRO LIME CREMA:

See my: Chorizo Breakfast Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema recipe

EXTRA BOWLS TOPPING IDEAS/CUSTOMIZATIONS:

Chopped Cilantro/Scallions
Avocado Slices
Pickled Jalapenos and/or Onions
Guacamole
Pico de Gallo
Salsa Verdes
Corn Salsa
Baked or Fried Plantain Chips
Shredded Cheese (Monterey, pepper jack, colby jack, queso fresco etc.)
Sour Cream
Shredded Lettuce
Lime Wedges

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Instructions

Season and cook the chipotle chicken. Spray/drizzle oil on both sides of the chicken. Season the chicken with chipotle chili powder, salt, and pepper. You can either cook the chicken in a preheated 375° F/204° C oven for about 40 minutes or cook it in the air fryer at 420 degrees F for about 26 minutes. Cook in a baking dish or on a sheet baking pan. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F before eating. Once the chicken has rested and cooled a bit, dice it into cubes or slice. Toss with a bit of the flavorful drippings from the pan if desired.
Cook the rice. You can follow the instructions on your bag of rice or try this Easy Oven Baked Rice recipe (double the recipe). Baked rice comes out much fluffier and less clumpy than stovetop rice – highly recommended! You can also use cauliflower rice, quinoa, coconut rice, or another favorite as a base. Add chopped cilantro and lime juice after the rice is cooked.
Saute the southwest veggies. Heat a cast iron or other pan over medium/high heat. Pour in the avocado oil and once warm, stir in the cumin, chili powders, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir for 10 seconds to bloom the spices. Add in the diced bell peppers, corn, beans, and scallions. Saute for about 5 minutes. Stir in cilantro and set aside.
Make the cilantro lime crema from this recipe. You can also blend in some chipotle in adobo sauce or one of the whole chipotles for an extra kick!
Gather additional toppings and assemble. There are so many ways to customize according to your preferences (see ingredients above to choose your favorites)! Mine below has avocado slices, salsa verdes, baked plantain chips, colby jack cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced scallions, and a squeeze of lime juice.