Fiesta Chicken Bowls with Avocado Crema
Recipe Introduction
Ever get that craving for Mexican food? Me too! I've got you covered. Let's dive into some healthy meals with shredded chicken.
We're making Fiesta Chicken Bowls. They’re packed with flavor. Plus, they are surprisingly good for you.
The Fiesta Chicken Bowl: A Little Backstory
These bowls are inspired by Mexican street food. Think fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It is a shredded chicken bowl recipe dream.
I find this a really satisfying meal idea with avocado , don't you think?
This recipe is easy. It is ready in under an hour. It is perfect for busy weeknights. This healthy Mexican chicken bowl yields about four servings.
Ideal for a small family or meal prep!
Why You'll Love This Bowl
This bowl is packed with protein. It's great for staying full and energized. They are great low carb veggie bowls if you ditch the rice! It's a perfect lunch salad with chicken if you skip the rice! I sometimes bring it to work!
These bowls are super customizable. You can add your favorite toppings. Feel free to adjust the spice level. Make it your own! This high protein shredded chicken meal will become your new favorite.
Key Ingredients to Get You Started
We'll need chicken breasts, brown rice, and black beans. Bell peppers, red onion, and cilantro are key too. Don't forget that all-important avocado for the crema.
If you are aiming for best salad recipes healthy clean eating , remember to add some greens!. I think chicken salad with avocado dressing is a fun name for this recipe!
Now, let's get into those ingredients in detail!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let’s Get This Fiesta Started!
Alright, so you wanna make some seriously delicious and healthy meals with shredded chicken ? Awesome! This fiesta chicken bowl recipe is all about fresh, simple ingredients.
It's like building your own burrito bowl, but way healthier. I totally get it: sometimes, you just crave comfort food.
This is the perfect way to satisfy that craving. It's packed with good stuff!
Main Ingredients
First things first, the chicken! You'll need 1.5 lbs (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Honestly, the quality of the chicken matters.
Go for organic or free range if you can. You can really taste the difference. Then, we need 1 cup (200g) of uncooked brown rice.
This will add a nice base to our Low Carb Veggie Bowls to fill it and make it a satisfying meal.
Quality Check: For the avocado, give it a gentle squeeze. It should yield slightly to pressure but not be mushy. That's the sweet spot.
Next are the black beans! 1 (15-ounce/425g) can, rinsed and drained. We also need 1 cup (150g) of frozen corn. For the avocado crema, grab 1 ripe avocado .
Seasoning Notes: Zesty, Spicy, and Oh-So-Good!
Our essential spice combo is chili powder and cumin. Use 1 tsp (5 ml) of chili powder and 1/2 tsp (2.
5 ml) of cumin. Then, add a pinch of garlic powder and smoked paprika. These spices make the Healthy Mexican chicken bowl taste authentic.
It is all about Best Salad Recipes Healthy Clean Eating , right?
For a flavor enhancer, don't skip the lime juice! 2 tbsp (30ml) of fresh lime juice will really brighten up the avocado crema.
If you're out of lime, a tiny splash of white wine vinegar works in a pinch.
This easy Shredded chicken bowl recipe will let you enjoy your Lunch Salad With Chicken , or even enjoy Chicken Salad With Avocado Dressing .
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Silly!
You don't need a ton of fancy gear for this recipe. A large pot or Dutch oven is essential for cooking the chicken.
This is crucial for easy weeknight chicken dinners. A medium saucepan for the rice is also a must. Don't forget a skillet for sautéing the veggies!
Household Hack: No blender for the crema? No sweat! Use a fork to mash the avocado with the other ingredients.
It won't be quite as smooth, but it'll still taste amazing. A fork is necessary for shredding the chicken. High protein shredded chicken meal only uses simple items.
You can also make Meal Ideas With Avocado
The Chicken and rice bowl healthy recipe is complete!
Mastering the Fiesta Chicken Bowl: Your Go-To Cooking Method
Honestly, creating amazing healthy meals with shredded chicken doesn't need to be a chore. I used to shy away from cooking because I thought it was too hard.
But it's all about having the right methods. Trust me, this Fiesta Chicken Bowl will become your new fave. It's super versatile for a lunch salad with chicken or a quick and easy dinner !
Prep Like a Pro: The Mise en Place Magic
We start with the mise en place that's chef speak for "everything in its place." First, dice that red bell pepper and red onion.
Next, measure out all your spices. Rinse your black beans. It may sound tedious, but it saves you so much time later on.
It makes cooking less of a stress. It allows you to cook with more ease.
To save even more time, I sometimes prep the chicken the night before. Marinate it, pop it in the fridge, and you're golden.
Fiesta Chicken Bowl: step-by-step
Here's how to nail this shredded chicken bowl recipe :
- Sear 1.5 lbs chicken breasts in 1 tbsp olive oil. Season with spices.
- Add water (enough to cover) and simmer for about 20 minutes , until chicken reaches 165° F .
- Shred chicken with forks. Return to pot, for extra flavor.
- Cook 1 cup brown rice with 2 cups water.
- Sauté diced pepper and onion.
- Blend avocado, yogurt, lime juice for that yummy crema!
- Assemble your bowl! Rice, chicken, veggies, beans, crema.
Pro Tips for Fiesta Chicken Bowl Success
Want to take this healthy Mexican chicken bowl to the next level? Squeeze fresh lime on the chicken after shredding for a zesty kick.
I also add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat! And, if you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is your best friend.
These bowls also work great as low carb veggie bowls if you swap the rice! And don't be shy with that avocado crema.
It's the star!
One common mistake? Overcooking the chicken! This will make it dry and sad. If you can meal prep, make the base components separately, and you'll get best salad recipes healthy clean eating , and your chicken salad with avocado dressing .
So, there you have it. Your journey to delicious and high protein shredded chicken meal is here. Enjoy! This really is one of those easy weeknight chicken dinners .
Try the chicken and rice bowl healthy . It is truly a recipe that you can experiment.
Recipe Notes for Your Fiesta Chicken Bowl Adventure
So, you're diving into these Fiesta Chicken Bowls. Great choice! I've made these so many times, I practically dream about the avocado crema! Here are a few extra notes to help you nail it, and make the best healthy meals with shredded chicken!
Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Bowl!
Presentation matters, right? Plating these bowls is super easy. Think colourful layers. Start with the rice, then arrange the chicken, beans, and veggies artfully on top.
A generous drizzle of that avocado crema? Essential!
For a complete meal, a simple side salad works wonders. Something like a Lunch Salad With Chicken and a light lime vinaigrette will cut through the richness nicely.
Also, a cool glass of iced tea? The perfect complement.
Storage Tips: Meal Prep Like a Boss
These bowls are fantastic for meal prep. The components keep really well separately. Store the shredded chicken, rice, veggies, and avocado crema in airtight containers in the fridge.
They'll last for about 3-4 days.
Freezing? The chicken and rice freeze beautifully. The avocado crema? Not so much. It tends to get a bit watery when thawed.
Instead, make it fresh when you're ready to eat. Reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Easy peasy.
Variations: Tweak It to Your Taste
Got dietary needs? No problem! For a Low Carb Veggie Bowls version, swap the rice for cauliflower rice. Seriously, it's a game changer! You could also try spaghetti squash.
Want to go seasonal? In the summer, grilled corn on the cob instead of frozen adds a smoky sweetness. During fall, roasted butternut squash would be yummy.
Nutrition Basics: Healthy Goodness!
Each bowl clocks in around 450-550 calories. You get a whopping 40-45 grams of protein! That's a High protein shredded chicken meal .
Loads of fiber too, which keeps you full. This recipe is awesome for Best Salad Recipes Healthy Clean Eating and getting those essential nutrients.
Chicken and rice bowl healthy ? Absolutely!
Honestly, this Shredded chicken bowl recipe is foolproof. Even if you're not a chef de cuisine , you'll impress yourself.
So, get in the kitchen and get creative. I'm sure this Healthy Mexican chicken bowl will become a new go-to! And make it Easy weeknight chicken dinners night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time for meal prepping?
Absolutely! This Fiesta Chicken Bowl recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. Cook the rice and chicken separately and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. You can also prep the avocado crema ahead of time, but be sure to store it in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning.
Assemble the bowls just before serving for the best texture.
What are some good variations if I want to change up the flavors of these healthy meals with shredded chicken?
Think of this recipe as a blank canvas! For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeño to the vegetables or a pinch of cayenne to the chicken seasoning a bit of hot sauce never goes amiss, either! If you're watching your carbs, swap the brown rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa.
You could even try using different types of beans or adding roasted sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
How long does shredded chicken last in the fridge, and how should I store the leftovers of these healthy meals with shredded chicken?
Cooked shredded chicken will generally last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator if stored properly. To maximize its shelf life, allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
For the complete bowls, it's best to store the avocado crema separately, as it can become discolored over time, although it's still perfectly safe to eat.
Is there a way to make the avocado crema without a blender?
While a blender or food processor will give you the smoothest results, you can definitely make the avocado crema by hand. Mash the avocado very well with a fork until it's mostly smooth. Then, thoroughly mix in the Greek yogurt, lime juice, and water.
It might have a slightly chunkier texture, but it will still be delicious like a rustic guacamole!
I'm trying to cut down on sodium. Any tips for making this recipe even healthier?
Absolutely! One of the biggest sodium sources can be canned goods, so be sure to rinse the black beans thoroughly. You can also use low-sodium chicken broth or just plain water to cook the rice and chicken.
Season generously with herbs and spices, but go easy on the salt, and remember that hot sauce can be high in sodium too, so use it sparingly if needed. Fresh ingredients are your friends here!
Fiesta Chicken Bowls With Avocado Crema
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15-20g |
| Fiber | 10-12g |
