Save A vibrant and flavorful bowl featuring zesty green enchilada sauce, tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings: a satisfying Tex-Mex meal perfect for busy weeknights.
I first tried this recipe when searching for a comforting Tex-Mex dinner that everyone in my family could enjoy. It quickly became a favorite because of how easily I could adjust the ingredients to suit everyone's tastes.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups shredded (rotisserie or poached)
- Cooked white or brown rice: 2 cups
- Green enchilada sauce: 1 1/2 cups (store-bought or homemade)
- Black beans: 1 cup canned, rinsed and drained
- Corn kernels: 1 cup (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Red onion: 1/2 cup diced
- Fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup chopped
- Avocado: 1 sliced
- Radishes: 1/2 cup sliced
- Queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese: 1/2 cup crumbled or shredded
- Lime: 1 cut into wedges
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Prepare chicken mixture:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken, green enchilada sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare rice base:
- Fluff the cooked rice and divide it evenly among four serving bowls.
- Assemble bowls:
- Top each bowl of rice with warm green enchilada chicken, black beans, corn, and red onion.
- Add toppings:
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, radishes, and cheese.
- Serve:
- Serve each bowl with a lime wedge for squeezing over the top.
Save Whenever I make these rice bowls, my kids have fun adding their favorite toppings. It brings everyone together because each bowl can be personalized.
Variations & Swaps
For a vegetarian version, try replacing chicken with sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or extra black beans. You can also swap the rice for quinoa for a whole-grain base.
Pairings
Serve the rice bowl with a crisp Mexican lager or a citrusy sparkling water to complement the zesty flavors.
Nutritional Highlights
Each serving provides approximately 465 calories, 14 g total fat, 54 g carbohydrates, and 28 g protein, making it both hearty and energizing.
Save Try this vibrant rice bowl for an easy dinner that can be customized to your liking. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works well and adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber to the bowl. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- → How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace chicken with sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or extra black beans for a satisfying vegetarian option.
- → What toppings enhance the flavor of this bowl?
Fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, radishes, crumbled cheese, and a squeeze of lime brighten flavors and add varying textures.
- → Is it possible to add heat to this dish?
Yes, add pickled jalapeños or hot sauce to introduce a spicy kick without overpowering the other ingredients.
- → What type of cheese pairs best with this bowl?
Queso fresco or shredded Monterey Jack cheese adds a mild creaminess that complements the bold enchilada sauce.
- → Can I prepare this bowl ahead of time?
You can prep components in advance but assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.