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Southwest Chicken Bowl Recipe: A Flavorful Family Favorite
Emily

Southwest Chicken Bowl Recipe: A Flavorful Family Favorite

This Southwest Chicken Bowl brings bold, smoky flavors and a customizable meal perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknights. Juicy grilled chicken pairs with fajita spices, warm rice, and vibrant toppings for a delicious, satisfying dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil for extra smokiness)
  • 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning mix (or a mix of chili powder, paprika, cumin)
  • 2 cups Mexican rice or cauliflower rice
  • ΒΌ cup Mexican cheese blend (or use gouda or provolone for a vegan-friendly option)
  • Toppings: salsa, sour cream, black beans, jalapenos, avocado, cilantro (optional)

Method
 

  1. Whisk olive oil and fajita seasoning in a bowl.
  2. Add chicken to a sealed Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Massage it into the meat.
  3. Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
  4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
  5. Transfer the chicken to a plate and rest it under aluminum foil for 20 minutes.
  6. Dice the chicken into bite-sized slices.
  7. Prepare the rice (or cauliflower rice) and warm as desired.
  8. Set out the toppings in small bowls.
  9. Assemble each bowl with rice, chicken slices, and desired toppings.

Notes

Use skinless thighs for juiciness or breasts for firmer texture.
Grill on indirect heat if using a charcoal grill to avoid burning.
Letting the chicken rest ensures juicy bites. Skip the cheese for a vegan version.
Customize fajita seasoning to match taste preferences or ingredients on hand.