Simple Southwest Chicken and Rice Bowl
A vibrant dish that encapsulates the bold flavors of Southwest cuisine, combining seasoned chicken with fluffy rice, colorful vegetables, and zesty toppings.
Equipment
- Medium Saucepan
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breast Diced into bite-sized pieces.
Grains
- 1 cup Long-grain white rice or brown rice Cook according to package instructions.
Vegetables
- 1 cup Diced bell peppers Use a mix of colors for visual appeal.
- 1 medium Onion Finely chopped.
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
Spices
- 1 tablespoon Chili powder For Southwest flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin Enhances earthy flavors.
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper To taste.
Fats
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For cooking.
Garnishes
- 1 handful Fresh cilantro Chopped, for garnish.
- 1 ripe Avocado Sliced, for topping.
- Fresh lime juice Squeezed over the bowl before serving.
Instructions
- Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes for white rice or 40-45 minutes for brown rice. Fluff with a fork after resting.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Sprinkle chili powder and cumin over the chicken and onion mixture. Stir well and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the diced bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Remove from heat and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Assemble the bowl with a scoop of rice at the bottom, topped with the chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Top with sliced avocado and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over the bowl before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
This dish is perfect for meal prepping and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.