Chicken Black Bean Bowl

Name: Chicken Black Bean Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa; 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, diced; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 lime, cut into wedges; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making a Chicken Black Bean Bowl because it’s a wholesome meal that packs a punch in flavor and nutrition. The combination of tender chicken, earthy black beans, and vibrant toppings creates a colorful dish that feels satisfying without being heavied down. In just about 30 minutes, I can whip this up for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. This recipe is not just delicious; it's also flexible, allowing me to adapt it based on what I have in the pantry.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-23T13:10:19.749Z

I remember the first time I made this Chicken Black Bean Bowl; it was a busy weeknight and I was scrounging for something quick yet nutritious. I decided to throw together a medley of ingredients I had on hand—grilled chicken, canned black beans, and fresh vegetables. The result was a delightful dish that my family devoured, and since then, it has become a staple in our household.

One of the tips I learned is to add lime juice right before serving to enhance the flavors. It not only brightens up the dish but also adds a refreshing zing that makes each bite irresistible. I often vary the toppings based on the season, making it a versatile choice all year round!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Protein-packed with tender chicken and hearty black beans
Customizable with your favorite toppings like avocado and salsa
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients of the Chicken Black Bean Bowl are the shredded chicken and black beans, both excellent sources of protein. The chicken can be cooked in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a quick option for busy nights. Additionally, using canned black beans is not only convenient but also ensures you have a hearty base without the long cooking times of dried beans. Always rinse canned beans to eliminate excess sodium and improve texture.

In addition to the proteins, the choice of toppings like avocado and fresh cilantro adds a refreshing element. Avocado not only brings a creamy texture but also provides healthy fats that enhance flavor absorption in your dish. The acidity from lime can brighten these flavors, making the dish more vibrant. Dicing the avocado just before serving ensures it remains fresh and colorful.

Assembling for Maximum Flavor

When assembling your Chicken Black Bean Bowl, layer the rice or quinoa first to absorb any juices from the toppings, preventing a soggy base. This technique helps maintain the structure of your bowl and keeps each bite deliciously intact. By starting with the grains, you create a solid foundation that will hold up nicely against the creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes.

For even distribution of flavors, consider adding the dressing to the individual ingredients before layering them in the bowl. This method can enhance the overall taste, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Drizzling the dressing just before serving keeps it from soaking into the rice, ensuring a balance of textures.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 lime, cut into wedges

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add or swap any ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Assemble the Bowl

In bowls, layer the cooked rice or quinoa at the bottom. Top with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.

Add the Dressing

Drizzle the dressing over each bowl and sprinkle with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro.

Serve

Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor!

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. You can also experiment with different grains like farro or couscous.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Chicken Black Bean Bowl is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the chicken and rice or quinoa in advance and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Keep the toppings, like avocado and cheese, separately until you’re ready to serve, to maintain freshness and prevent texture changes from moisture.

If you want to freeze portions, assemble bowls without the dressing or avocado, as these ingredients don’t freeze well. Store the bowls in freezer-safe containers, and they can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave for a quick meal.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your Chicken Black Bean Bowl based on seasonal ingredients or personal preference. For instance, you can swap black beans for pinto beans for a different flavor profile. To add more veggies, consider including sautéed bell peppers or zucchini, which bring additional nutrients and texture.

You can also turn this bowl into a vegetarian dish by omitting the chicken and using extra black beans or other protein sources like diced tofu or tempeh. Season these substitutes with similar spices to mimic the savory notes of chicken and create a well-rounded dish that suits any dietary preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Yes, canned chicken can work in a pinch, just drain and rinse before adding to the bowl.

→ How can I make this dairy-free?

Simply omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add jalapeños, sour cream, or even grilled vegetables for extra flavor and texture.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! The components can be prepared ahead, but it's best to assemble the bowls right before serving for the freshest experience.