Save Spice up your weeknight meals with this bold and satisfying Chipotle Chicken Bowl with Black Beans, Corn, & Creamy Sauce. Packed with juicy grilled chicken seasoned in smoky chipotle spices, sweet corn, hearty black beans, fresh herbs, and drizzled in a tangy, creamy chipotle sauce, this quick and easy dinner idea is both wholesome and restaurant-quality. It's perfect for meal prep, a healthy lunch, or a comforting dinner. Whether you're after a protein-packed food idea or simply love bold flavors, this easy recipe is a must-try.
I first served this at a family get-together where everyone loved customizing their own bowls with extra lime wedges and cilantro. It disappeared fast and instantly became our new go-to meal for busy nights, plus it makes tasty leftovers for lunch.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 2 pieces
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Chipotle powder: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Brown sugar: 1/2 tsp
- Salt & black pepper: To taste
- Cooked rice (white or cilantro-lime rice): 1 cup
- Canned black beans, drained and rinsed: 1 cup
- Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned): 1 cup
- Chopped fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: 1/4 cup
- Sour cream: 1/4 cup
- Lime juice: 1 tbsp
- Chipotle powder (for sauce): 1/2 tsp
- Extra lime wedges: Optional, for serving
Instructions
- Make the Marinade:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, chipotle powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Coat the chicken breasts in the mixture and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Grill or Cook Chicken:
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Rest before slicing.
- Make Creamy Chipotle Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayo or yogurt, sour cream, lime juice, and chipotle powder.
- Prepare Beans and Corn:
- Warm the black beans and corn if desired. Season with a pinch of salt.
- Assemble the Bowl:
- Start with rice, then layer sliced chicken, beans, corn, cilantro, and a generous drizzle of sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with extra lime wedges if desired.
Save My kids love helping to build their own bowls with colorful toppings and extra sauce. It brings everyone together around the dinner table and there are never any complaints.
How to Store Leftovers
Place any leftover components in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Enjoy within 3 days for maximum freshness and flavor.
Variations
Try swapping the chicken for tofu or shrimp, or add diced avocado for extra creaminess. For extra spice, include sliced jalapeños.
Make-Ahead Tips
Marinate the chicken up to a day in advance and mix the sauce ahead for effortless assembly. The beans and corn can also be prepped ahead of time.
Save This Chipotle Chicken Bowl is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for busy nights. Enjoy every bite of smoky, tangy, and fresh flavor!
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer juicy texture and soak up chipotle marinade well, but thighs can also be used.
- → Can I use canned corn and beans?
Absolutely. Canned black beans and corn are convenient and deliver great results if drained and rinsed before use.
- → How spicy is the chipotle seasoning?
The level of heat mainly comes from chipotle powder. Adjust the amount for a milder or hotter taste.
- → What type of rice pairs best?
White rice, brown rice, or cilantro-lime rice all complement the smoky chicken and beans for optimal bowl flavor.
- → Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes, the chicken, beans, corn, and sauce can be prepared ahead and assembled when ready to eat for easy lunches.
- → Are there healthier sauce options?
Greek yogurt can be used instead of mayonnaise to lighten the creamy chipotle sauce without losing flavor.