Why make this recipe
This Smoky Chicken Bowl is easy, fast, and full of flavor. It brings smoky chicken, beans, corn, and creamy chipotle sauce together in one bowl. You get protein, healthy fats, and grains in one meal. It works well for a quick dinner or meal prep.
Introduction
This recipe is simple and forgiving. If you want more smoky chicken ideas, check a short guide on how to get great smoked chicken at home: Smoked chicken thighs guide. The bowl uses common ingredients and does not take long to make.
How to make Smoky Chicken Bowl
Cook the chicken well and let it rest before slicing. Layer warm rice or quinoa, then black beans and corn. Add sliced chicken and fresh avocado. Finish with creamy chipotle sauce. For another quick chicken cook method, you can follow an air fryer chicken bites idea for a fast, crispy option: air fryer chicken bites recipe.
Ingredients :
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup creamy chipotle sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Cooked rice or quinoa for serving
Directions :
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Allow to rest before slicing.
- In a bowl, layer the cooked rice or quinoa, followed by black beans, corn, sliced chicken, and diced avocado.
- Drizzle with creamy chipotle sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your smoky chicken bowl!
How to serve Smoky Chicken Bowl
Serve the bowl warm. Add a lime wedge for a fresh squeeze. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if you like. Offer extra chipotle sauce on the side for people who want more heat.
How to store Smoky Chicken Bowl
Cool the bowl parts before storing. Keep chicken, beans, corn, and rice in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Store avocado sliced separately and add it fresh when you serve. Eat within 3–4 days. Reheat chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stove until hot.
Tips to make Smoky Chicken Bowl
- Pat chicken dry and season well for better browning.
- Rest cooked chicken 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Warm the rice or quinoa before layering so the bowl is hot.
- Use smoked paprika or a quick grill for extra smoky taste.
- If using frozen corn, thaw or warm it first.
Variation
- Swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter bowl.
- Use grilled or smoked chicken thighs for more flavor.
- Add salsa, shredded cheese, or pickled onions for extra zest.
- Make it vegetarian by using a seasoned grilled tofu or roasted sweet potato instead of chicken.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Thighs stay juicier and add more flavor. Cook until done and check internal temperature.
Q: Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
A: Yes. Store components separately and assemble bowls when ready to eat to keep avocado fresh.
Q: Is the chipotle sauce spicy?
A: It has a smoky heat. You can reduce the amount or use a milder sauce if you prefer.
Q: Can I freeze the cooked bowl?
A: You can freeze cooked chicken and rice, but avocado and sauce do not freeze well. Thaw and reheat chicken and rice only.
Conclusion
For a different smoky corn and chicken mix, try a ready example of a street corn style bowl for ideas and plating: Smoky Street Corn Chicken Bowls (Easy and High-Protein). If you want a weeknight chicken burger twist with smoky flavors, this recipe shows a similar concept that can inspire bowl toppings: Smoky Chicken Patty Bowl: the Perfect Weeknight Chicken Burger.
Smoky Chicken Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 piece avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup creamy chipotle sauce
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- for serving Cooked rice or quinoa
Instructions
Cooking Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Assembling the Bowl
- In a bowl, layer the cooked rice or quinoa, followed by black beans, corn, sliced chicken, and diced avocado.
- Drizzle with creamy chipotle sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your smoky chicken bowl!