Chicken Guacamole Bowls are a vibrant, nutritious, and customizable meal that brings together the savory goodness of seasoned chicken, creamy guacamole, and a variety of fresh toppings. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, these bowls are packed with protein, healthy fats, and colorful vegetables, making them both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe is versatile and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Guacamole Bowls

• Healthy and Balanced: These bowls combine lean protein from chicken, healthy fats from avocado, and fiber from vegetables and grains, offering a well-rounded meal.
• Customizable: You can tailor the ingredients to your taste, dietary needs, or whatever you have in your pantry.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal cooking and prep time, you can have a wholesome meal ready in under 30 minutes.
• Great for Meal Prep: Assemble the bowls ahead of time for a grab-and-go lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Guacamole:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or grilled)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce or mixed greens
• 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving
• Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or hot sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the chicken with olive oil and the spice mixture.
3. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the cooked chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or cubing.

Step 2: Make the Guacamole

1. In a medium bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until smooth or slightly chunky, depending on your preference.
2. Add diced tomato, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide the cooked rice (or cauliflower rice) among 4 bowls as the base.
2. Arrange the sliced or cubed chicken, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and shredded lettuce in each bowl.
3. Add a generous scoop of guacamole on top.
4. Sprinkle with queso fresco or shredded cheese, if desired.
5. Serve with lime wedges and optional toppings like salsa, sour cream, or hot sauce.

Tips for Success

• Make it Low-Carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or extra greens to reduce carbs.
• Spice it Up: Add more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Meal Prep: Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Assemble just before eating to keep the guacamole fresh.
• Protein Variations: Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, steak, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Why Guacamole is the Star

The guacamole in these bowls adds a creamy, tangy element that ties all the flavors together. Avocados are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and vitamins like potassium and vitamin E. Paired with the bold spices of the chicken and the freshness of the vegetables, the guacamole elevates this dish to a restaurant-quality meal you can enjoy at home.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a refreshing drink like iced tea, sparkling water with lime, or a light margarita.
• Serve with tortilla chips on the side for added crunch.
• For a crowd, set up a build-your-own-bowl bar with all the ingredients in separate bowls, letting everyone customize their meal.

Chicken Guacamole Bowls are the perfect combination of fresh, bold, and healthy. Try this recipe for your next meal and enjoy a burst of flavors in every bite!