Save A vibrant and flavorful bowl featuring zesty green enchilada sauce, tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings, this satisfying Tex-Mex meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
I first whipped up these green enchiladas rice bowls on a hectic Wednesday night and was amazed by how fast the whole family was sitting down to an incredibly tasty meal. The recipe has become a go-to favorite for its fresh flavors and flexibility.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
- White or brown rice: 2 cups, cooked
- Green enchilada sauce: 1 1/2 cups (store-bought or homemade)
- Black beans: 1 cup, canned, rinsed and drained
- Corn kernels: 1 cup (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Red onion: 1/2 cup, diced
- Fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Avocado: 1, sliced
- Radishes: 1/2 cup, sliced
- Queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled or shredded
- Lime: 1, cut into wedges
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Warm the Chicken:
- 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 the Bowls:
- Fluff the cooked rice and divide it evenly among four serving bowls.
- Assemble the Toppings:
- Top each bowl of rice with warm green enchilada chicken, black beans, corn, and red onion.
- Add Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, radishes, and cheese.
- Serve:
- Serve each bowl with a lime wedge for squeezing over the top.
Save The first time I served these at a family dinner, everyone eagerly built their own bowls, passing toppings around the table and sharing laughs over which combo tasted the best.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, chefs knife, cutting board, serving bowls, spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
This dish contains dairy (cheese) and may contain gluten if using non-certified enchilada sauce. Omit avocado or cheese if sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 465 calories, 14 g total fat, 54 g carbohydrates, and 28 g protein.
Save This meal comes together quickly, packs in the flavor, and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy mixing and matching toppings to suit your taste!
Kitchen Questions
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or extra black beans for a satisfying vegetarian option.
- → What type of rice works best?
Both white and brown rice work well. Brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and more fiber, while white rice creates a lighter texture.
- → How can I add extra heat to this bowl?
Try adding pickled jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to bring some heat to the flavors.
- → Is it possible to prepare the green enchilada sauce at home?
Absolutely! Homemade green enchilada sauce made from tomatillos, green chilies, garlic, and spices adds fresh authentic flavor.
- → What are some good beverage pairings?
This bowl pairs nicely with a crisp Mexican lager or a citrusy sparkling water to balance the rich and zesty flavors.