Chicken Black Bean Bowl

Name: Chicken Black Bean Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small red onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cups cooked rice; Lime wedges for serving; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love creating vibrant meals that pack a nutritious punch, and this Chicken Black Bean Bowl is one of my go-to recipes. It’s quick to whip up and bursting with flavors from tender chicken, hearty black beans, and fresh veggies. Every bite offers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and zesty spices, making it not just a satisfying dish but also a wholesome option. I often find myself making this for both meal prep and casual dinners because of how versatile and delicious it is!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-23T13:15:20.311Z

This Chicken Black Bean Bowl is something I stumbled upon during my quest for healthy yet filling meals. I often experiment with different spices and vegetables, and I found that adding a squeeze of lime right before serving elevates the dish to a whole new level of freshness. The balance between the succulent chicken and the earthy black beans keeps me coming back for more.

What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or a meat lover, you can easily tailor it to suit your preferences. Swap the chicken for some roasted vegetables or tofu, and the black beans can be replaced with any pulse you have on hand!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A colorful bowl that’s as good for your eyes as it is for your taste buds
Nutritious ingredients that keep you energized throughout the day
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

Perfecting Your Chicken

Cooking the chicken properly ensures a juicy and flavorful base for your Chicken Black Bean Bowl. To achieve this, make sure to use a hot skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing. After adding the chicken, let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a nice golden color before flipping. The seasoning of cumin and paprika not only provides depth but also enhances the overall profile of the dish, making each bite aromatic and satisfying.

Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you have a meat thermometer, this is a great tool to ensure doneness without risking dryness. If you're prepping in bulk or want to use leftovers, consider marinating the chicken ahead of time in lime juice and spices for an extra layer of flavor.

Choosing Your Vegetables

The combination of bell pepper and red onion brings sweetness and a slight crunch to the dish, but feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or spinach. If using frozen corn, there's no need to thaw; just toss it directly into the skillet with the beans. This method retains the sweet flavor and bright color of the corn, adding a lovely contrast to the black beans and chicken. Timing is crucial; sauté the vegetables just until they are tender yet still vibrant in color, typically about 5 minutes.

If you have leftover veggies in the fridge, this recipe is an excellent opportunity to incorporate them, helping to reduce waste and adding to the bowl's nutritional profile. Just make sure to dice them evenly for uniform cooking. Remember, the more colorful your vegetable variety, the more nutrients you'll pack into this meal!

Making It Your Own

One of the most exciting aspects of the Chicken Black Bean Bowl is its versatility. You can easily customize this dish based on your dietary needs or preferences. For a vegan alternative, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu, ensuring you season them well to mirror the flavors in the original recipe. Additionally, if you're looking to up the protein content, consider adding quinoa instead of rice or mixing in some diced avocado for healthy fats.

When it comes to toppings, the options are endless! My favorite add-ons include a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess, sliced jalapeños for some heat, or a sprinkle of cheese. If you prep this for meal prep, consider storing each component separately to keep everything fresh, and then assemble your bowl just before eating. This helps maintain the integrity of your ingredients and allows you to enjoy the dish at its best.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Black Bean Bowl

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small red onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cups cooked rice
Lime wedges for serving
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Combine all these ingredients to create your delicious bowl.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Chicken Black Bean Bowl:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika, and cook for about 7-10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Add Beans and Corn

Stir in the black beans and corn, and cook until heated through for about 3-5 minutes.

Assemble the Bowl

Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture over cooked rice and garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro.

Enjoy your Chicken Black Bean Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add avocado slices or pico de gallo for extra flavor and texture.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is a great thing!), store the chicken, beans, and rice separately in airtight containers. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of each ingredient. In the fridge, these components can last up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just be mindful that rice can become gummy after freezing and reheating, so it's best to cook it fresh if possible.

When reheating, I recommend using the stove over the microwave for better texture. Simply add a splash of water to the skillet and cover it to steam the mixture back to life. This will help avoid dry bits and ensure everything heats evenly. Aim for a medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until everything is warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on presentation, serve the Chicken Black Bean Bowl in lettuce wraps instead of over rice. This not only lowers the carbs but also adds a refreshing crunch. Alternatively, drizzle some spicy salsa or a chipotle sauce over the top for an added kick. If you're hosting a gathering, consider creating a bar-style setup where guests can assemble their own bowls, adding a personal touch to each serving.

You might also pair this bowl with a side of tortilla chips and a homemade pico de gallo for an extra layer of flavor. Whether it's a casual dinner or a prep meal for the week, this recipe's elements can easily be adapted to suit different occasions and dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and beans in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use tofu, tempeh, or even just extra vegetables for a vegetarian version.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure the seasoning and rice are gluten-free, this dish is safe for a gluten-free diet.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop.