Southwest Chicken Bowl Recipe

30 minutes 4 servings clean eating gluten-free healthy summer recipes high protein meal prep quick dinners

This bowl is one of those meals that checks all the boxes — quick, hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor.

I first threw it together after a week of tacos and leftover grilled chicken. I added some rice, corn, black beans, avocado… and it instantly became a repeat meal in our house.

It’s now one of our most requested summer dinners — especially on busy nights when I want to get something on the table fast. It’s vibrant, filling, and totally flexible. Make it your own or just follow this version for a foolproof win.

 

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1/2 tsp cumin

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp paprika

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • Juice of 1 lime

For the Bowl:

  • 2 cups cooked brown or white rice (or quinoa)

  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)

  • 1 avocado, sliced

  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/4 cup red onion or scallions, chopped

  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

  • Optional: Greek yogurt or sour cream for topping

 

Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken:
    Season chicken with spices and lime juice. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Let rest, then slice.

  2. Build the bowl:
    Divide rice into bowls. Top with beans, corn, chicken, avocado, tomatoes, and red onion.

  3. Finish it off:
    Add fresh cilantro, a dollop of Greek yogurt (if using), and a squeeze of lime. Serve warm or chilled!

 

Sarah’s Tips

  • Make it low-carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or a bed of greens.

  • Add heat: A dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños works great.

  • Make ahead: All the components store well for 3–4 days — perfect for grab-and-go lunches!

 

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 440

  • Carbs: 32g

  • Sugars: 3g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Protein: 36g

  • Fiber: 7g

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