Name: Charred Chicken & Black Bean Cal-Mex Bowls
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips); 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 large poblano peppers; 2 (15 oz) cans black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 cup shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend; 2 large avocados (sliced); 1/2 cup light sour cream; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 4 cups cooked brown rice (hot); 1 lime (cut into wedges)

Charred Chicken & Black Bean Cal-Mex Bowls

SmoothCherry2622

This Charred Chicken & Black Bean Cal-Mex Bowl delivers a powerhouse of protein and bold Mexican-inspired flavors, perfect for meal prep or a lively dinner. Charred poblano peppers lend a subtle smokiness that pairs deliciously with juicy, spice-rubbed chicken and hearty black beans. The Cal-Mex style shines through with creamy avocado, tangy light sour cream, and a sprinkle of cheese—all layered atop nutty brown rice for a satisfying, well-balanced meal. Each bowl is as vibrant as it is delicious, offering a filling, nutritious dinner that’s easy to make ahead and sure to excite your taste buds all week long.

Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat broiler or gas stovetop flame. Char poblano peppers directly over flame or under broiler, turning until skin is blackened and blistered on all sides, 8-10 minutes. Place in a bowl, cover, let steam 5 minutes. Peel, deseed, and slice.
While peppers char, toss chicken strips with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
In a small saucepan, warm drained black beans over medium heat until hot. Season with a pinch of salt if desired.
To assemble each bowl: Layer 1 cup cooked brown rice, top with chicken, black beans, charred poblano strips, a sprinkle of cheese, a few slices of avocado, and a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with cilantro and a lime wedge. Serve immediately or pack for meal prep.
For meal prep: Portion all components into containers, keeping avocado and sour cream separate until ready to eat.