Pin A vibrant and flavorful bowl featuring zesty green enchilada sauce, tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings—a satisfying Tex-Mex meal perfect for busy weeknights.
I first tried this recipe on a hectic weeknight, and it's become a regular favorite for its bold flavors and how simple it is to throw together.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
- Cooked white or brown rice: 2 cups
- Green enchilada sauce: 1 1/2 cups (store-bought or homemade)
- Canned black beans: 1 cup, rinsed and drained
- Corn kernels: 1 cup (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Diced red onion: 1/2 cup
- Chopped fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup
- Avocado: 1, sliced
- Sliced radishes: 1/2 cup
- Crumbled queso fresco or shredded Monterey Jack cheese: 1/2 cup
- Lime: 1, cut into wedges
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Prepare chicken and sauce:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken, green enchilada sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the rice:
- Fluff the cooked rice and divide it evenly among four serving bowls.
- Assemble bowls:
- Top each bowl of rice with warm green enchilada chicken, black beans, corn, and red onion.
- Add garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, radishes, and cheese.
- Serve:
- Serve each bowl with a lime wedge for squeezing over the top.
Pin
This rice bowl always brings the family together at the table, with everyone customizing their own toppings and sharing plenty of laughs.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, chefs knife, cutting board, serving bowls, spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese). May contain gluten if using non-certified enchilada sauce; check labels for gluten-free diets. Avocado and cheese may pose issues for those with related allergies; omit as needed.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 465 , Total Fat: 14 g , Carbohydrates: 54 g , Protein: 28 g (per serving)
Pin Make this bowl your own with fresh toppings and enjoy a cheerful, satisfying meal every time.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice or quinoa work well as hearty bases, adding fiber and a nutty flavor to the bowl.
- → How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or extra black beans for a delicious vegetarian option.
- → What toppings complement the flavors best?
Cilantro, avocado, radishes, queso fresco, and a squeeze of lime add freshness, creaminess, and zesty brightness.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. Add pickled jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to increase the heat to your preferred taste.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your enchilada sauce is certified gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure safety.
- → What beverage pairs well with this bowl?
A crisp Mexican lager or refreshing citrus sparkling water complements the flavors nicely.