Baja Chicken Bowls
A vibrant dish featuring marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, creamy sauce, and a hearty base of rice, combining flavor and nutrition in a delightful bowl.
Ingredients
For the chicken and marinade
- 1 pound chicken breast Tender and juicy, this is the star of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Helps in marinating and cooking the chicken while adding richness.
- 1 teaspoon cumin Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika Brings mild sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances overall savoriness.
- Salt and pepper To taste.
For the base
- 1 cup rice (white or brown) Acts as the base for your bowl.
For the bowls
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained Provides protein and fiber.
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned) Offers sweetness and texture.
- 1 bell pepper, diced bell pepper, diced Adds crunch and color.
- 1 small onion, diced onion, diced Gives a nice aromatic flavor.
- 1 avocado, sliced avocado, sliced Brings creaminess and healthy fats.
- ½ cup sour cream For a creamy topping.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or yogurt Enhances the sauce’s creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice Brightens all the flavors.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Prepare the rice
- Cook your rice according to the package instructions. You can choose either white or brown rice.
Marinate the chicken
- Mix together olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade. Let marinate for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Cook the chicken
- Heat a grill or pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the marinated chicken for approximately 6 to 7 minutes per side, until fully cooked through at an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
Prepare the vegetable mixture
- Mix black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, diced onion, and chopped cilantro in a bowl.
Make the sauce
- In a small mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise (or yogurt), lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
Assemble the bowls
- Start by placing a generous serving of cooked rice in each bowl as your base.
- Layer sliced chicken on top, then add the vegetable mixture.
- Drizzle the creamy sauce over everything and garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges.
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Notes
These bowls are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare them in advance, keeping components separate until serving time. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days.