Southwest Chicken and Rice Bowls

Healthy Living Mama
May 10, 2019
3 min read

Delectable slices of seasoned chicken, black beans, tomatoes on a bed of cilantro rice, drizzled with a hint of lime.

Nothing satisfies my appetite more than a good rice bowl. Well, except for maybe a potato casserole. I had one yesterday- it was SO GOOD! Potatoes and onions and peppers and ham and eggs and lots of OOEY GOOEY cheese! Then, I remembered later why I try to avoid cheese... I was so, sad.

“Nothing satisfies my appetite more than a good rice bowl”

However, when I control what goes into my food, I know that likely my stomach isn't going to be sent into crazy circles with things it just can't digest anymore- like dairy. (I know, TMI probably. So, so sorry!)

Making the change to eating "whole"

Since becoming a part of the Juice Plus family, I have been seeking ways to change up my family's eating as a whole- and, I'm not going to lie. It has been a struggle! These kids eat the typical American diet...cheese puffs and McDonald's find their way into our lives more often then I'd like to admit. And it seems like we are paying for it more often than not. However, when we eat clean and whole, life seems to be much, much happier (and healthier) for us!

There are many "diet" choices out there, but I try to follow the guidelines in the Shred 10...about 80% of the time. Lots of whole food options leave me feeling happy all the time, and I know it is safe for my kids...and actually better for their health- mental and physical, then most of the other plans out there.

Chicken, Black Beans, and Avocado- Oh My!

“It's an avocado! Thanks!”

Today's recipe comes to us from Clean Food Crush, who has so many fun and colorful recipes. I just LOVE her site! Her Chicken and Rice Bowls remind me of why I love Mexican food so much. These make excellent grab-and-go lunches- just double the recipe and portion into little containers. I just made it for dinner. My kids love being able to pick and choose which ingredients go on top. And, I find that avocado makes a GREAT substitute for dairy cheese. However, if you find you just can't do without your cheese, cheese it up, or go with a dairy-free selection.

Southwest Chicken and Rice Bowl-

Makes about 4 bowls Ingredients:

8 boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 Tbsps avocado oil, or olive oil, divided
15 oz. black beans, drained and rinsed if using canned
1 Tbsp + 2 tsp taco seasoning (I have a good homemade taco seasoning recipe on the website!)
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to your taste
1 cup uncooked brown rice
2 1/2 cups water, or bone broth
a small bunch of fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
1 fresh lime, juiced
2 cups lettuce of choice, shredded
1 ripe avocado, sliced or chopped
extra topping ideas: pico de gallo, lime wedges, additional cilantrogo with a dairy-free selection.

Instructions:

In a large saucepan whisk water/broth, 1 Tbsp oil, pinch sea salt, pepper and 2 teaspoons of the taco seasoning, then bring to the boil.
Stir in rice and simmer, covered, for 15-17 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is just tender.
Meanwhile, rub chicken breasts on both sides with 1 Tablespoon taco seasoning.
Heat remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the inside.
Let chicken rest on a board for a few minutes, then slice it thin.
Once the rice has cooled a bit stir in the fresh lime juice and cilantro leaves until combined well with the rice.
To assemble the bowls, divide equally among 4 bowls: rice, chicken and beans over rice, lettuce, and avocado then top as desired.