Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowls
Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal? These Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowls are bursting with sweet, smoky, and savory goodness. Tender, chipotle-marinated chicken sits on a bed of fluffy rice, alongside a vibrant mix of fresh toppings. It’s a perfect balance of textures and tastes, ready in under an hour!
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Optional Toppings:
- Sliced red onion
- Diced cherry tomatoes
- Crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- Hot sauce
Cooking Guide:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked rice between bowls. Top with black beans, corn, avocado slices, and chopped cilantro. Slice or shred the cooked chicken and distribute evenly among the bowls.
- Serve: Garnish bowls with lime wedges and your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
Tips:
- Adjust the spice: Chipotle peppers can vary in heat. Start with one pepper and add more to taste.
- Leftovers: Store leftover chicken and rice in separate containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
- Make it a fiesta: Add other toppings like chopped bell peppers, salsa, or guacamole for extra flavor and texture.
- Dietary variations: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free tamari or soy sauce in the marinade. For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese.