Brown Rice and Bean Bowl with Chargrilled Chicken Recipe

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A hearty, healthy, and flavorful meal, the Brown Rice and Bean Bowl with Chargrilled Chicken is perfect for anyone seeking a balanced diet. This dish combines the protein-rich goodness of beans and chicken with the fiber-packed benefits of brown rice. Here’s how you can make this delightful recipe.


Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown rice
  • 400g can black beans (rinsed and drained)
  • 4 chicken thigh fillets
  • 30g taco seasoning packet
  • 2/3 cup light sour cream
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 small red onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 tomatoes (finely chopped)
  • 2 spring onions (thinly sliced)
  • 1 tbsp chopped coriander
  • 1 tbsp pickled jalapeños (drained and chopped)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 8 red oak leaf lettuce leaves
  • 2 carrots (peeled and cut into matchsticks)
  • 1 just-ripe avocado (stoned, peeled, and coarsely chopped)
  • Salt and pepper
  • Tomato salsa

Recipe Directions

  1. Cook the brown rice in a rice cooker or over the stove. Once cooked, transfer to a bowl.
  2. Add the black beans to the rice. Toss to combine.
  3. Place the chicken thigh fillets in a bowl. Sprinkle with 3 tsp of the taco seasoning then toss to combine. 
  4. Heat a barbecue grill or chargrill on medium. Cook the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil. Set aside to rest for 5 minutes.
  5. Combine sour cream, half the lime juice, and the remaining taco seasoning in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly.
  6. Place the onion, tomato, spring onion, coriander, jalapeño, oil, and remaining lime juice in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper and gently stir to combine.
  7. Divide the rice mixture evenly among serving bowls. Thinly slice the chicken.
  8. Arrange the lettuce, carrot, avocado, and chicken over the rice mixture in the bowls.
  9. Top with a dollop of sour cream mixture. 
  10. Serve with tomato salsa on the side.

Recipe Tips

  • For an extra nutty flavor, toast the brown rice in a dry skillet before cooking.
  • You may also use white rice for this recipe.
  • Try pinto or kidney beans for a different twist.
  • The longer you marinate the chicken, the deeper the flavors will penetrate.
  • This recipe is great for meal prepping. Store the components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
  • For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with grilled tofu or roasted vegetables.

Final Note

This Brown Rice and Bean Bowl with Chargrilled Chicken is a versatile and wholesome dish that’s both satisfying and packed with nutrients. It offers a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and rich flavors. Customize it with your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours, and enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it is nourishing.

Seeking more nutritious rice dishes? Check out our collection of recipes.