If you love bold, zesty flavors and colorful meals that come together easily, this Southwest Chicken Bowl is about to become your new favorite dinner! Packed with chipotle-seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, and fluffy rice, this dish offers a perfect balance of protein, veggies, and grains—all in one vibrant bowl.
It’s hearty, wholesome, and completely satisfying, making it ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving something comforting yet fresh.
Why You’ll Love This Southwest Chicken Bowl
- One-pan convenience – Everything cooks together for easy cleanup.
- Wholesome ingredients – Packed with lean protein, fiber, and colorful veggies.
- Customizable – Swap the grains, protein, or toppings to fit your taste.
- Meal-prep friendly – Stores beautifully for healthy lunches all week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Base
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 poblano chili, diced
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Rice
- 1 cup basmati white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
Seasonings
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ¾ tsp coriander
- ½ tsp oregano
- Pinch of cayenne and black pepper
To Finish
- 2 cups cooked diced chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup yellow corn
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
Optional Garnishes
Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, tortilla strips, sour cream, avocado slices
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, bell peppers, and poblano chili. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
2. Add the Rice and Flavor
Stir in the rice to lightly toast the grains. Add chicken broth, salsa, black beans, and all the seasonings. Mix well to combine.
3. Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
4. Add the Chicken and Corn
Stir in cooked chicken, lime juice, cilantro, and corn. Sprinkle cheese on top, cover again, and let it melt for 2–3 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Scoop into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes—cilantro, avocado, sour cream, or tortilla strips.
Helpful Tips for the Best Southwest Chicken Bowl
- Marinate for flavor: Mix lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and garlic to marinate your chicken for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Add freshness: Use fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, or diced tomatoes for a bright finish.
- Make it spicier: Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or extra cayenne for heat.
- Switch up the base: Swap rice for quinoa, cauliflower rice, or lettuce for a low-carb version.
What to Serve With It
Pair this hearty bowl with:
- Mexican Street Corn Soup – for a cozy starter.
- Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken Sandwich – for a fun twist on Southern flavor.
- Iced Tea Lemonade – a refreshing drink to balance the spice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another protein?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, pork, tofu, or even tempeh.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Cook the components separately and assemble when ready to eat for easy meal prep.
What are the best toppings?
Try avocado slices, sour cream, salsa, or shredded cheese. A squeeze of lime and fresh herbs bring everything together.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 365 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Sodium: 788 mg
- Cholesterol: 71 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Final Thoughts
This Southwest Chicken Bowl is the ultimate combination of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. With tender chicken, smoky spices, colorful vegetables, and zesty lime, every bite bursts with Southwest flair.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a quick dinner, this recipe delivers flavor, balance, and comfort in one beautiful bowl.