Pin It A vibrant and flavorful bowl featuring zesty green enchilada sauce, tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings, this Green Enchiladas Rice Bowl is a satisfying Tex-Mex meal perfect for busy weeknights.
I first made these bowls after craving Tex-Mex flavors without the fuss of rolling enchiladas. This recipe became a regular weeknight staple, especially during busy seasons when comfort food is a must.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
- Cooked white or brown rice: 2 cups
- Green enchilada sauce: 1 1/2 cups (store-bought or homemade)
- Canned black beans: 1 cup, rinsed and drained
- Corn kernels: 1 cup (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Diced red onion: 1/2 cup
- Chopped fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup
- Avocado: 1, sliced
- Sliced radishes: 1/2 cup
- Crumbled queso fresco or shredded Monterey Jack cheese: 1/2 cup
- Lime: 1, cut into wedges
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Warm the chicken mixture:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken, green enchilada sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare rice bowls:
- Fluff the cooked rice and divide it evenly among four serving bowls.
- Add toppings:
- Top each bowl of rice with warm green enchilada chicken, black beans, corn, and red onion.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, radishes, and cheese.
- Serve:
- Serve each bowl with a lime wedge for squeezing over the top.
Pin It Our family loves building their own bowls with different toppings, making it a fun dinner everyone can customize. Even the kids enjoy squeezing their lime wedges and choosing extra cheese.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, chefs knife, cutting board, serving bowls, spoon or spatula.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy. Avocado and cheese may cause allergies for some; omit as needed. Non-certified green enchilada sauce can include gluten; be sure to check product labels.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 465. Total Fat: 14 g. Carbohydrates: 54 g. Protein: 28 g.
Pin It This Green Enchiladas Rice Bowl is the perfect blend of comfort and fresh flavor. Toppings and grains can be swapped, so feel free to make it your own.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this bowl vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken with sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or extra black beans for a tasty vegetarian option.
- → What types of rice work best?
Both white and brown rice work well; brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber if preferred.
- → How can I add more heat to the dish?
Include pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to introduce spiciness without overwhelming the flavors.
- → Is the cheese essential for the dish?
The cheese adds creaminess and a mild salty touch, but can be omitted or replaced with a dairy-free alternative if needed.
- → What dishes pair well with this bowl?
Pair with a crisp Mexican lager or a citrusy sparkling water to complement the fresh and zesty ingredients.