For the first recipe on my blog, I wanted to show you a recipe that I have on repeat each week. In my opinion, bowls are the easiest, simplest dinner to make when you want a quick, healthy dinner. When I create a bowl, I always make sure to include a protein, carbohydrate, and healthy fat. This not only creates a well-rounded, nourishing meal, but also keeps you full and satisfied. From there, you simply add spices and vegetables to give each bowl a unique flavor combination. So, when in a pinch, combine a source of protein, carb, and fat and you are good to go!

This Blackened Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice bowl is one of my favorites. If you love Chipotle, you will be obsessed, and shocked at how easy it is to remake at home. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, and when paired with the fajita vegetables and cilantro lime rice it is a match made in heaven. I topped my bowl with diced avocado, lime wedges, and cilantro, but feel free to be creative! Sour cream, salsa or guacamole would also be delicious toppings.

The best part about this bowl is the colors. I love to create recipes that are fresh and full of vibrant colors, because colorful fruits and veggies = nutrients! This recipe is beginner friendly, but looks (and tastes!) very impressive when plated. Enjoy!

Ingredients

olive oil spray
1 chicken breast
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust if you want the chicken to be more mild or spicy)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 red pepper
1/2 yellow pepper
1/2 green pepper
1/2 white onion
1/2 cup white rice
1 lime
1 bunch cilantro
1 avocado

Instructions

Combine 1/2 cup of white rice, 1 cup of water, and a pinch of salt in a medium sized pot. Cover with lid and cook on medium heat until water has absorbed and rice is fully cooked.
Slice chicken breast in half lengthwise.
Combine 1/2 tsp of each spice in a small bowl, and rub on both sides of the chicken breast.
Spray a frying plan generously with olive oil spray, and let pan heat on high for a few minutes. Once the oil is shiny, add chicken.
Cook chicken for about 5 minutes or until deep golden brown on one side. Flip chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes until other side is deep golden brown.
Remove chicken from pan and place on a plate. Cover plate with a sheet of aluminum foil.
Slice 1/2 each pepper and 1/2 an onion lengthwise. Spray frying pan with olive oil spray and cook veggies for about 7 minutes or until lightly charred and softened.
Juice 1/2 a lime and finely chop about 20 cilantro leaves. Once the rice is finished cooking, add lime and cilantro and fluff rice with a fork.
Plate bowl with cilantro lime rice, charred veggies, and sliced blackened chicken. Garnish with diced avocado, lime wedges, and cilantro leaves.

Blackened Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice