Avocado Lime Chicken Bowls

Short description
These Avocado Lime Chicken Bowls feature tender, lime-marinated chicken thighs served atop cilantro lime rice, black beans, corn, and a vibrant avocado salsa, all drizzled with a creamy chipotle-yogurt sauce. They make for a flavorful, balanced meal perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with fresh, zesty flavors from lime, cilantro, and avocado

• Protein-packed and nutrient-rich for a satisfying, wholesome meal

• Easily customizable with extra vegetables, alternative grains, or sauces

• Perfect for meal prep—components hold up well in the refrigerator for up to three days

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken

• 1¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 1 tablespoon lime zest

• 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely diced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Avocado Salsa

• 2 ripe avocados, cubed

• ⅓ cup cilantro, finely diced

• ¼ cup red onion, diced

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• ½ teaspoon salt

Bowl Assembly

• 2 cups cooked cilantro lime rice

• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1½ cups corn kernels

Chipotle Sauce

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt

• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo

• 1–2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from the can)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

directions

1. In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, olive oil, honey, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes and up to 6 hours.

2. Preheat the oven to 400 °F (200 °C) or set an air fryer to 400 °F.

3. In a blender, combine Greek yogurt, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, lime juice, salt, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth, then set aside.

4. In a separate bowl, mix cubed avocados, cilantro, red onion, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.

5. Arrange the marinated chicken on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket.

   • Oven: Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C).

   • Air Fryer: Cook for 14–18 minutes, until fully cooked.

6. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes, then slice or shred.

7. Assemble bowls: Divide cilantro lime rice among four bowls. Top each with black beans, corn, avocado salsa, and chicken. Drizzle with chipotle sauce and garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 bowls

• Prep time: 30 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Marinate time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable boost: Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or fresh greens for extra color and nutrients.

• Sauce swap: Replace the chipotle sauce with a cilantro lime crema for a milder, tangy finish.

• Protein alternatives: Use chicken breasts (pounded to ½ inch thickness), shrimp, or firm tofu.

• Grain options: Serve over Spanish cauliflower rice for a low-carb version, Mexican green rice, or quinoa.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days; store the chipotle sauce for up to 1 week.

• Reheating: Warm chicken and rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil until heated through. Serve the avocado salsa and chipotle sauce chilled or at room temperature for the best texture.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten free?

All primary ingredients are naturally gluten free. Ensure any packaged seasonings or sauces you use are certified gluten free.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes. Pound chicken breasts to ½-inch thickness for even cooking, then follow the same marinade and cooking instructions.

Is it possible to freeze these bowls?

You can freeze the cooked chicken and rice separately for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Avocado salsa and yogurt sauce are best prepared fresh.

What’s the best way to meal prep these bowls?

Cook rice and chicken in advance. Store components in separate containers and assemble bowls just before eating to maintain the avocado’s texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy free?

Substitute the Greek yogurt chipotle sauce with a cashew-based crema or another dairy-free yogurt alternative.

How spicy is the chipotle sauce?

The sauce has moderate heat. Reduce or omit chipotle peppers for a milder flavor.

What can I use instead of black beans?

Pinto beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas all work well as alternatives.

Can I swap the rice for another grain?

Yes. Quinoa, farro, or bulgur are excellent substitutes; adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C).

What garnishes pair well with these bowls?

Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, sliced jalapeño, or a drizzle of hot sauce complement the flavors nicely.

Conclusion

These Avocado Lime Chicken Bowls deliver a harmonious blend of tangy, creamy, and smoky flavors in every bite. Their adaptability and ease of preparation make them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or planned meal prep. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore the suggested variations, this dish promises to satisfy both your taste buds and nutritional needs. Enjoy!