Description
These Southwest Chicken Burrito Bowls combine tender marinated chicken, zesty cilantro lime rice, and colorful black bean and corn salsa, topped with a creamy Southwest dressing. This nutrient-packed, flavorful meal is ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and bold Southwestern flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- ¼ red onion, chopped
- 1 roma tomato, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, diced (optional)
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup jasmine rice, uncooked
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp olive oil mayonnaise (optional)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Romaine lettuce or greens, for serving
- Avocado slices, cheese, or tortilla chips (optional toppings)
Instructions
- Cut chicken into cubes and toss with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
- Cook jasmine rice according to package directions. Mix in lime juice, chopped cilantro, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper once cooked.
- Combine black beans, corn, bell peppers, red onion, tomato, cilantro, lime juice, vinegar, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl to make the salsa.
- Blend Greek yogurt, mayo, lime juice, garlic, honey, cilantro, and seasonings until smooth to make the Southwest dressing.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook 3–4 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Assemble bowls: Layer rice, chicken, salsa, and greens. Drizzle with Southwest dressing and top with avocado or tortilla chips if desired.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for deeper flavor—up to 24 hours if time allows.
- Store each component separately for best freshness.
- Use cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb or higher-protein option.
- Customize spice level by adjusting jalapeño or chili powder.
- Greek yogurt keeps the dressing creamy but light—add mayo for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Southwest Chicken Burrito Bowls, meal prep, healthy chicken bowl, cilantro lime rice, Mexican burrito bowl, black bean corn salsa, Greek yogurt dressing