Chicken Taco Poblano Rice Bowls

If you’re looking for a vibrant, hearty meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! Chicken Taco Poblano Rice Bowls are a delightful mix of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a satisfying base of brown rice. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, these bowls are sure to become a family favorite. Not only do they burst with flavor, but they also provide a great balance of protein, fiber, and nutrients that will keep you feeling full and satisfied. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why Chicken Taco Poblano Rice Bowls is Worth Your Time

Chicken Taco Poblano Rice Bowls are not just another meal; they represent a fusion of textures and flavors that will transport you straight to a sunny taco stand. The smoky poblano pepper, fresh cilantro, and zesty lime juice create a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken and rich cheese. Plus, they’re customizable! Whether you want to add more veggies, switch out the protein, or make it a low-carb option, the possibilities are endless. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also a great way to use up leftover ingredients you may have in your fridge.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 1/4 pounds organic boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 medium red onion, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, minced plus more for garnish
• 1 poblano pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 roma tomato, cored and diced
• 1 lime, halved
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (see below)
• Kosher salt to taste
• 1 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels
• 3 cups cooked brown rice, heated (use cauliflower rice for low-carb)
• 1/4 cup cheddar-jack cheese
• 1/4 cup 2% sour cream or Greek yogurt, optional
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano

Appliances & Accessories

• Large skillet: For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
• Cutting board and knife: To chop your fresh ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: For precise measurement of spices.
• Serving bowls: To dish out your delicious rice bowls.

Chicken Taco Poblano Rice Bowls in Steps

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes with 1 teaspoon of olive oil, taco seasoning, garlic powder, cumin, kosher salt, chili powder, paprika, and oregano. Toss everything well to ensure the chicken is coated evenly. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating, take this time to prepare your vegetables. Dice the red onion, poblano pepper, and roma tomato. Mince the cilantro and set everything aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced red onion and poblano pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Then, stir in the diced roma tomato and corn kernels, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Assemble the Rice Bowls

In serving bowls, layer the heated brown rice (or cauliflower rice) first. Top with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle with cheddar-jack cheese and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and garnish with extra cilantro.

Substitutions by Diet

• For a low-carb option: Substitute brown rice with cauliflower rice.
• For a dairy-free option: Omit cheese and sour cream or use a dairy-free alternative.
• For a vegetarian option: Replace chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables.
• For a gluten-free option: Ensure that your taco seasoning and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

• Overcooked Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can dry out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Too Spicy: If your dish turns out too spicy, add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt to balance the heat.
• Stuck Rice: If the rice is stuck together, add a splash of water and fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
• Veggies Too Crunchy: If you prefer softer veggies, sauté them longer before adding the chicken.

Best Ways to Store

Store any leftover Chicken Taco Poblano Rice Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you want to freeze the bowls, assemble without the cheese and sour cream, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reader Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra flavor and moisture to your bowls. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I serve with these rice bowls?

These bowls are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with tortilla chips, guacamole, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve over the rice.

How spicy are these bowls?

The spice level depends on your taco seasoning and the poblano pepper. Poblano peppers are mild, but if you want to reduce the spice, feel free to omit the chili powder or use less seasoning.

Cook This Next

• Chicken Fajitas
• Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta
• Vegan Burrito Bowl
• Vegetable Tacos

Before You Go

We hope you enjoy making and savoring these Chicken Taco Poblano Rice Bowls as much as we do. They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience of flavors, colors, and textures that celebrate the joy of cooking and sharing food. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to dig into a bowl of deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds! Happy cooking!