Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! These Chicken Black Bean Burrito Bowls are packed with flavor, protein, and vibrant colors, making them a perfect weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, offering a fantastic alternative to takeout and a delicious way to enjoy healthy meals. It's one of the best recipes for a quick and satisfying dinner, combining the ease of quick dinner ideas with the deliciousness of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the toppings:
- Cooked rice
- Shredded cheese
- Avocado, diced
- Salsa
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions:
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Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté onion until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in black beans, corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies, taco seasoning, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Add Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
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Serve: Spoon cooked rice into bowls. Top with the chicken black bean mixture and your favorite toppings.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for extra heat.
- Add veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with 1 cup of cooked quinoa or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Slow Cooker Option: For an even easier meal, brown the chicken as directed then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the chicken black bean mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on toppings)
- Protein: 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fat: 10-15g
This recipe offers a fantastic blend of flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!