Description
How to make healthy chicken taco bowls with cilantro lime rice and fresh salsa that satisfy your Mexican food cravings without the guilt.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Cilantro Lime Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
Fresh Toppings
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Mix all spices in a small bowl, then rub evenly over chicken breasts. Let sit for 10 minutes while you prep other ingredients for better flavor penetration.
- Cook Rice: Bring chicken broth to boil in medium saucepan, add rice, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer 18 minutes until tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest Chicken: Transfer cooked chicken to cutting board and let rest 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps all those delicious juices locked inside the meat.
- Finish Rice: Fluff cooked rice with fork, then stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for perfect balance.
- Slice Chicken: Cut rested chicken into thin strips against the grain. This ensures every bite is tender rather than chewy, even if you slightly overcook it.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide cilantro lime rice among four bowls, top with sliced chicken, black beans, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cheese. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Pound chicken breasts to even 3/4-inch thickness for uniform cooking and tender results.
- Store components separately in refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to keep the meal lighter and healthier.
- Double the spice mixture and store extra in airtight container for quick future meals.
- Slice chicken against the grain to ensure every bite is tender, not chewy.
- Taste and adjust lime juice and salt in rice before serving for perfect balance.
Allergy Information: None
Nutrition
- Calories: 485 calories
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 38g