Ingredients

1 recipe chipotle chicken ( recipe follows )
1 recipe cilantro-lime basmati rice ( recipe follows )
1 can black beans , drained , rinsed , heated and seasoned with salt & pepper
2 teaspoons dried chipotle powder or 2 teaspoons dried ancho chile powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
4 garlic cloves , coarsely chopped
1/4 cup red onion , coarsely chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons lime juice
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves ( about 6 ounces each )
2/3 cup basmati rice , rinsed
1 cup water
salt
1 teaspoon vegetable oil or 1 teaspoon butter
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
1/2 lime , juiced ( to taste )
queso fresco
sour cream
salsa
lettuce
tomatoes
guacamole
shredded cheese ( cheddar , Monterey Jack , etc . )
pico de gallo
avocado
The Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl is a hearty and flavorful meal that is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something easy and satisfying. It's a Mexican-inspired dish that combines smoky and spicy chicken with fresh, zesty, and creamy toppings. The cilantro-lime rice provides a neutral base that balances out the flavors and textures of the other ingredients. This meal is also great for meal prep or entertaining because you can batch cook the chicken and rice and store them separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. Then, you can assemble your bowls with your preferred toppings and enjoy a homemade and healthy meal anytime.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2.In a large bowl, whisk together the chipotle powder or ancho chile powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, garlic cloves, red onion, olive oil, and lime juice. Add the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly with the marinade mixture.
3.Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
4.While the chicken is cooking, cook the basmati rice by combining the rice, water, salt, and vegetable oil or butter in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil then reduce the heat to a low simmer, cover the saucepan, and cook for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice to taste.
5.Once all of the components are ready, assemble your rice bowl by placing a scoop of rice at the bottom of a bowl, followed by a scoop of black beans, then a generous serving of the chipotle chicken. Top with queso fresco, a dollop of sour cream, salsa, lettuce, tomatoes, guacamole, shredded cheese, pico de gallo, and sliced avocado.

PROS

The Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl is a one-bowl meal that is flavorful, filling, and packed with protein and fiber.
It’s easy to make and can be customized to your taste preferences by adding or omitting ingredients.
The smoky and spicy flavor of the chicken is balanced by the freshness of the cilantro-lime rice and the creaminess of the avocado and sour cream.

CONS

This meal is high in sodium due to the canned black beans and the chipotle powder.
If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can soak and cook dried black beans instead or use a low-sodium black bean variety.
This meal is also quite high in calories and fat due to the chicken and toppings, so it’s important to watch your portion size and balance it with lighter meals throughout the day.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl is a good source of protein and fiber, which can help keep you full and satisfied. The black beans are also a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, and they contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and support heart health. The chicken is a good source of lean protein and contains essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that support muscle growth, immune function, and bone health. The avocado is a good source of healthy fats and dietary fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Overall, this meal can be a healthy and satisfying option as long as you watch your portion size and choose nutritious toppings.

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