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Healthy Comida Bowls de Pollo con Arroz y Frijoles

healthy comida bowls de pollo con arroz y frijoles - featured image

A quick and easy healthy chicken, rice, and black bean bowl with smoky, savory flavors and fresh accents, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 23 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Lime wedges (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear (about 1-2 minutes). In a medium pot, combine 1 cup of rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
  2. While the rice cooks, pat dry the chicken pieces and season both sides with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.
  3. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Push the aromatics to the side and add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and no longer pink in the center (internal temperature 165°F). Lower heat if browning too fast.
  5. Remove the chicken and add the rinsed black beans to the same pan. Stir for 2-3 minutes over medium heat to warm through, adding a splash of water if needed.
  6. Assemble the bowl by layering rice, beans, and sliced chicken. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and improve texture. Cook rice ahead to save time. Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking chicken to get a good sear.

Nutrition

Keywords: healthy chicken bowl, chicken rice beans, easy dinner, meal prep, Mexican bowl, quick recipe, healthy dinner