Chipotle Chicken Bowl with Black Beans, Sweet Potatoes, and Cilantro Lime Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced and nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
• Easy to customize – Swap ingredients to suit your dietary needs.
• Bold and zesty flavors – The smoky chipotle pairs beautifully with the creamy cilantro lime sauce.
• Meal-prep friendly – Make components in advance for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
• Great for any occasion – Whether it’s a casual lunch or a hearty dinner, this bowl delivers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chipotle powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cilantro Lime Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Bowl:

• 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup cooked sweet potatoes, cubed
• 1 cup cooked corn kernels
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish

Directions

1. Prep the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken cubes, olive oil, chipotle powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken: Grill or pan-fry the seasoned chicken cubes over medium heat until fully cooked and slightly charred.
3. Make the Cilantro Lime Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked black beans, sweet potatoes, and corn kernels among serving bowls. Top with grilled chicken and drizzle with cilantro lime sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicier Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Swap sweet potatoes with cauliflower rice or leafy greens.
• Extra Toppings: Try adding avocado slices, crumbled queso fresco, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
• Grain Addition: Serve with quinoa or brown rice for extra heartiness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and sweet potatoes in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Assemble the bowl and drizzle with fresh cilantro lime sauce before serving.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance for quick assembly during the week.

FAQs

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Swap the mayonnaise and sour cream for a dairy-free yogurt or a cashew-based dressing.

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes! Just drain and rinse the canned corn before adding it to the bowl.

What’s a good substitute for chipotle powder?

Smoked paprika with a pinch of cayenne works well as a substitute.

How do I make the sauce thinner?

Add a little extra lime juice or a splash of water until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What’s the best way to cook sweet potatoes for this dish?

Roast them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or air-fry for a quicker option.

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Yes! Prep all the ingredients and store them separately, then assemble when ready to eat.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all the ingredients used are certified gluten-free.

Can I serve this cold?

Absolutely! This dish works great as a cold salad-style bowl.

Conclusion

This Chipotle Chicken Bowl with Black Beans, Sweet Potatoes, and Cilantro Lime Sauce is a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and customize. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this bowl is sure to be a hit. Try it out and enjoy a hearty, wholesome dish packed with bold flavors!