Craving a fresh and satisfying meal that’s also healthy? This Green Chile Chicken Burrito Bowl offers all the vibrant flavors of your favorite burrito, served in a convenient and nutritious bowl. It’s a fantastic addition to your healthy burrito bowl recipes repertoire.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs.
- Green Chiles: Canned diced green chiles work perfectly.
- Rice: Brown rice is recommended; white rice or quinoa are also great options.
- Beans: Black beans or pinto beans.
- Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn kernels.
- Avocado: Essential for creamy texture.
- Lime: Fresh lime juice brightens all the flavors.
- Cilantro: Freshly chopped for garnish.
Ingredients:
For the Green Chile Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Optional toppings: salsa, plain Greek yogurt (as a sour cream substitute)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, measuring cups and spoons.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned. This step locks in flavor.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Green Chile Chicken:
Pour in the diced green chiles, chicken broth or water, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Assemble Your Bowls:
Divide the cooked brown rice among four bowls. Top each with a generous serving of the green chile chicken mixture, black beans, and corn.
5. Add Fresh Toppings:
Garnish each bowl with diced avocado and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges and any optional toppings like salsa or plain Greek yogurt. Enjoy your delicious healthy burrito bowl.
Variation Ideas:
- Veggies: Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Heat: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Grains: Experiment with quinoa or cauliflower rice for different textures and nutritional profiles.
- Cheese-Free: Omit cheese entirely or use a dairy-free shredded cheese substitute for a lighter option.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Green Chile Chicken Burrito Bowl components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps ingredients fresh and prevents sogginess. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken and rice, then add the fresh toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and rice ahead and store them separately. Assemble the bowls just before serving for the best taste.
- Is this recipe spicy?
The canned diced green chiles provide a mild flavor. For more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a spicier salsa.
- What if you don’t have brown rice?
You can easily substitute with white rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option in your healthy burrito bowl.
- Can you use ground chicken instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Brown the ground chicken first, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
- How do you make this recipe vegetarian?
Omit the chicken and double the amount of beans, or add plant-based protein like crumbled tofu or tempeh seasoned similarly.
- What kind of beans work best?
Black beans are classic, but pinto beans or kidney beans would also be delicious in this healthy burrito bowl.
