Save Bright, colorful, and bursting with flavor, these Mango Avocado Salsa Chicken Bowls bring together the best of nutritious ingredients in one satisfying meal. The combination of juicy grilled chicken, fluffy brown rice, protein-packed black beans, and the sweet-tangy mango avocado salsa creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes that will transport your taste buds to a tropical getaway.
Save These colorful bowls are as nutritious as they are delicious. The lean grilled chicken provides protein, while brown rice offers complex carbohydrates and fiber. Black beans add more protein and fiber, and the mango avocado salsa delivers healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals in a burst of tropical flavor. It's the perfect balanced meal when you want something wholesome yet exciting.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, juice of 1 lime
- For the Brown Rice: 1 cup uncooked brown rice, 2 cups water, ½ tsp salt
- For the Black Beans: 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed, ½ tsp cumin, ½ tsp chili powder, ¼ tsp salt
- For the Mango Avocado Salsa: 1 large ripe mango, diced, 1 ripe avocado, diced, ½ small red onion, finely chopped, 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped, ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped, juice of 1 lime, ¼ tsp salt
- For Serving: Lime wedges, additional chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the brown rice
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 35-40 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
- Marinate the chicken
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add chicken breasts and coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Grill the chicken
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill chicken 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice.
- Prepare the black beans
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine beans, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir and heat through, about 5 minutes.
- Make the mango avocado salsa
- In a bowl, gently combine mango, avocado, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
- Assemble the bowls
- Divide brown rice among 4 bowls. Top with sliced chicken, black beans, and a generous scoop of mango avocado salsa. Garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best flavor, try to marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, but if you have time, let it marinate for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. When preparing the mango avocado salsa, add the avocado last and fold it in gently to prevent it from becoming mushy. The lime juice will help prevent the avocado from browning too quickly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, substitute the grilled chicken with grilled tofu, tempeh, or simply add extra black beans. For a lower-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of brown rice. If you prefer less heat, omit the jalapeño or remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. You can also add corn, bell peppers, or diced cucumber to the salsa for extra texture and nutrition.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these vibrant bowls family-style, allowing everyone to build their own with their preferred ratios of rice, beans, chicken, and salsa. For a complete meal, pair with a simple side salad or tortilla chips for scooping up extra salsa. These bowls are best enjoyed fresh, but the components can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just keep the salsa in an airtight container with the avocado pit to help prevent browning.
Save These Mango Avocado Salsa Chicken Bowls are more than just a meal—they're a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. The sweet mango plays off the creamy avocado, while the spice-rubbed chicken and hearty rice and beans create a satisfying foundation. Whether you're meal prepping for the week ahead or serving a casual dinner for friends, these vibrant bowls are sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I make the chicken tender and flavorful?
Marinate the chicken breasts with olive oil, lime juice, and spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika for at least 15 minutes before grilling.
- → Can I prepare the salsa in advance?
Yes, prepare the mango avocado salsa shortly before serving to maintain the fresh textures and vibrant flavors.
- → What’s the best way to cook the brown rice?
Simmer the brown rice in water with salt, covered, for 35-40 minutes until tender and the water is absorbed, then fluff with a fork.
- → Can I substitute the chicken with a plant-based option?
Grilled tofu or additional beans can replace the chicken for a vegetarian variation while maintaining protein content and texture.
- → How can I add extra crunch to this bowl?
Add shredded lettuce, sliced radishes, or toasted seeds to enhance the texture and freshness.
- → What sides or drinks pair well with this bowl?
A light citrusy white wine or sparkling water with lime complements the vibrant flavors perfectly.