Southwest Chicken Bowl Recipe

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:
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1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp chili powder
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1/2 tsp cumin
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp paprika
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Juice of 1 lime
For the Bowl:
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2 cups cooked brown or white rice (or quinoa)
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1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
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1 avocado, sliced
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1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/4 cup red onion or scallions, chopped
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Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
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Optional: Greek yogurt or sour cream for topping
Instructions
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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. -
Build the bowl:
Divide rice into bowls. Top with beans, corn, chicken, avocado, tomatoes, and red onion. -
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
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Make it low-carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or a bed of greens.
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Add heat: A dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños works great.
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Make ahead: All the components store well for 3–4 days — perfect for grab-and-go lunches!
Nutrition (Per Serving)
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Calories: 440
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Carbs: 32g
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Sugars: 3g
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Fat: 18g
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Protein: 36g
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Fiber: 7g
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