Chipotle Lime Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls
Spicy Chipotle, Zesty Lime, and Sweet Potatoes!
Inspired by Mexican flavors, these Chipotle Lime Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls combine smoky heat, citrusy zest, and natural sweetness for a satisfying, nutritious meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, they offer a flavorful balance of spice, freshness, and comfort.
Tasty Chipotle Lime Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls – Healthy, Spicy Chicken Bowl with a Zesty Kick
DifficultyMedium
Servings4
Prep time10 minutes
Cook time20 minutes
Total time30 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowls:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa, white or brown rice
- 1 cup corn kernels, (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- 1
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and lightly browned, flipping halfway through.
- 2
Marinate the Chicken:
- While the sweet potatoes cook, prepare the chicken. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chipotle powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let them sit for at least 10 minutes. For extra flavor, marinate for up to 30 minutes.
- 3
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temperature).
- Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- 4
Assemble the Bowls:
- In each bowl, layer the cooked quinoa or brown rice, roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, and sliced chicken.
- Top with fresh cilantro and diced red onion. Serve with lime wedges on the side for extra zest.
- 5
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the bowls warm, with an extra squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Skillet or frying pan
- Small bowls for marinating
- Measuring spoons and cups
Recipe Notes & Variations:
Substitutions:
- Chicken: You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.
- Grains: Swap quinoa for rice, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Spices: Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less chipotle powder. You can also add chili flakes or cayenne for extra heat.
Pro Tips:
- Resting the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to retain juices and prevent dryness.
- Roasting the Sweet Potatoes: For an even roast, spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sweet potatoes ahead of time for a quick meal later in the week.
FAQs:
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Yes, you can replace the chicken with grilled tofu, tempeh, or extra beans for a vegetarian version.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
- It’s best to use fresh sweet potatoes, but canned sweet potatoes can work in a pinch. Just ensure they are drained and well-seasoned.
Storage & Reheating Instructions:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken, sweet potatoes, and quinoa in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Nutrition
| Calories | 450 |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Cholesterol | 75mg |
| Fat | 16g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 12g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration
Chipotle Lime Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls draw inspiration from bold Mexican flavors and the comforting nature of a hearty bowl meal. Combining the heat of chipotle with the zesty kick of lime, this dish offers a satisfying balance of spicy and citrusy elements. The inclusion of sweet potatoes adds a touch of sweetness to counter the heat, making it a flavorful and healthy bowl option. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and nutritious dinner that still feels indulgent.
The Art of Cooking Parts of the Recipe
The key to this recipe is the marinade for the chicken, which infuses the meat with smoky and spicy flavors. The roasted sweet potatoes add texture and a natural sweetness that complements the savory ingredients. The addition of quinoa or rice provides a hearty base, while the corn and beans contribute a satisfying combination of protein and fiber. Topping with fresh cilantro and red onion gives the dish a refreshing burst of flavor.
Interesting Things About the Recipe
This chipotle chicken bowl is incredibly versatile. Not only is it a family favorite, but it can also be customized with various toppings or side dishes. It’s easy to make this recipe your own by adding your favorite vegetables, swapping in different proteins, or adjusting the level of spice. This is an ideal recipe for meal prepping since the ingredients hold up well when stored and reheated.
Overview of the Parts of the Recipe
- Chicken: Marinated and cooked with smoky chipotle and lime for deep flavor.
- Sweet Potatoes: Roasted to perfection, adding a tender sweetness to balance the spice.
- Bowls: Layered with quinoa, black beans, corn, and topped with fresh cilantro and lime.
What Occasions It’s Good For
- Healthy Chicken Bowl: A nutritious and balanced meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Quick Chicken Dinner: Ready in 30 minutes, this is a great choice for a fast and flavorful weeknight meal.
- Family Chicken Meal: This dish is easy to prepare in large quantities, making it ideal for family dinners.
Why It’s the Perfect Recipe
This chipotle chicken bowl brings together bold flavors, healthy ingredients, and a satisfying meal in one. It’s perfect for anyone craving a quick, flavorful dinner that’s both nutritious and filling. Plus, it’s adaptable, making it a great choice for a wide range of dietary preferences.
