This savory chicken and rice bowl combines tender seasoned chicken breast with fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and zesty lime flavors to create a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this delicious bowl delivers balanced nutrition and bold flavors that will become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 tsp (5ml) chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2-3 tbsp (30-45ml) olive oil
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice
- 1 cup (150g) corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 large ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup (50g) shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 large lime (approximately 2 tbsp/30ml)
- 2 cups (475ml) water for rice
- Additional salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken While the rice cooks, prepare the chicken by patting it dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and chili powder, ensuring even coverage. Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Thoroughly Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on the first side without moving it, allowing a golden crust to form. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the second side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Sauté the Corn In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the corn kernels. If using frozen corn, ensure it’s thawed and drained. Sauté the corn for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through and slightly caramelized. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Prepare the Chicken After the chicken has rested, use a sharp knife to cut it into bite-sized pieces, cutting against the grain for maximum tenderness. The pieces should be roughly 1-inch cubes for easy eating.
Step 6: Assemble the Base In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed corn, diced chicken, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime juice. Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined, ensuring the lime juice and cilantro are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 7: Final Assembly and Serving Divide the chicken and rice mixture among serving bowls. Slice the avocado and arrange the slices on top of each bowl. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over each serving and add any additional seasonings to taste. Serve immediately while the chicken and rice are still warm.
Nutritional Information and Timing
Total Preparation Time: 35-40 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 4 people
Nutritional Information per Serving:
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Calcium: 15% Daily Value
- Iron: 12% Daily Value
This balanced meal provides excellent protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the rice, healthy fats from the avocado, and essential vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables and herbs.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Grain Alternatives: Replace white rice with brown rice for added fiber and nutrients, though cooking time will increase to 45-50 minutes. Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or wild rice also work excellently as base alternatives.
Protein Substitutions: Ground turkey, pork tenderloin, or firm tofu can replace chicken breast. For vegetarian options, black beans or grilled portobello mushrooms provide substantial protein content.
Vegetable Additions: Bell peppers, diced tomatoes, red onions, or jalapeños can enhance flavor and nutrition. Roasted sweet potatoes or zucchini add interesting textures and natural sweetness.
Cheese Variations: Feta cheese, queso fresco, or pepper jack cheese offer different flavor profiles. For dairy-free options, nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives work well.
Seasoning Modifications: Add cumin, smoked paprika, or garlic powder to the chicken seasoning. Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can substitute for cilantro if preferred.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chicken and rice bowl ahead of time? Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep. Cook all components and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Add fresh avocado and lime juice just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and prevent browning.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover chicken and rice bowls? Reheat the rice and chicken mixture in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add fresh avocado, cheese, and a squeeze of lime juice after reheating for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Fresh chicken breast works best for optimal texture and flavor, but you can use frozen chicken if properly thawed. Thaw frozen chicken completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking, and pat dry thoroughly before seasoning to ensure proper browning.
How can I make this recipe spicier? Increase the chili powder amount, add cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning, or include diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the final bowl assembly. Fresh serrano peppers or chipotle powder also add excellent heat and smoky flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets? This chicken and rice bowl is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for various dietary needs. For keto diets, replace rice with cauliflower rice. For dairy-free diets, omit the cheese or use plant-based alternatives. The recipe is already paleo-friendly except for the rice and cheese components.
This savory chicken and rice bowl delivers restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your home kitchen. The combination of perfectly seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings creates a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or preparing meals for the week ahead, this versatile recipe adapts easily to your preferences and dietary needs.