Save A vibrant and fresh bowl featuring juicy marinated chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and a tangy lime-cilantro dressing—perfect for a nourishing weeknight meal.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite as it combines bright flavors with simple prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 ½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 tablespoons olive oil, Juice and zest of 2 limes, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- Bowls: 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (hot), 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained, 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1 cup corn kernels (fresh frozen or canned), 1 avocado sliced, ½ small red onion thinly sliced
- Lime Cilantro Dressing: ¼ cup fresh lime juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup, 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil lime juice and zest garlic cumin smoked paprika chili powder salt pepper and cilantro. Add the chicken breasts turning to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Cook Chicken:
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill or cook for 6 8 minutes per side or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Set aside to rest for 5 minutes then slice.
- Prepare Sides:
- While the chicken cooks prepare the rice and chop the vegetables as needed.
- Make Dressing:
- In a small bowl whisk together all dressing ingredients until emulsified.
- Assemble Bowls:
- Divide rice among four bowls. Top with slices of chicken black beans cherry tomatoes corn avocado and red onion.
- Serve:
- Drizzle each bowl with lime cilantro dressing and garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
Pin it My family loves gathering around these bowls because they’re colorful flavorful and easy to customize.
Notes
For extra heat add sliced jalapeños.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls grill or skillet knife and cutting board whisk serving bowls
Allergen Information
Contains None of the major allergens (milk egg nuts wheat soy fish shellfish sesame). Always check labels on beans and corn for possible cross-contamination if gluten-sensitive.
Pin it Enjoy this fresh and zesty bowl as a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
Marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes to infuse the lime and cilantro flavors, or up to 2 hours for a deeper taste.
- → Can I substitute the rice for a low-carb option?
Yes, quinoa or cauliflower rice are excellent alternatives that work well with the flavors of this dish.
- → What is the best way to cook the chicken?
Grilling or pan-searing over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes per side ensures a juicy, well-cooked result.
- → How can I add some heat to the dish?
Incorporate sliced jalapeños into the bowl or marinade for a spicy kick that complements the lime and cilantro.
- → Is this bowl gluten-free?
Yes, all main ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just check beans and corn labels for possible cross-contamination.