Ground Chicken Taco Bowls

Ground Chicken Taco Bowls are a flavorful, nutritious meal featuring seasoned ground chicken, rice, and fresh toppings like corn, black beans, and avocado. They’re quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, and easy to customize with your favorite taco toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: On the table in about 30 minutes.
• Healthy and Balanced: High-protein, veggie-packed, and customizable to suit different diets.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Store all components separately and assemble throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: A fun, build-your-own dinner everyone can enjoy.
• Full of Flavor: Bold taco-seasoned chicken combined with fresh toppings and creamy avocado.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Ground Chicken:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground chicken
• ½ cup diced yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup salsa

For the Taco Bowls:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh lime wedges, for serving
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the Ground Chicken
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds. Add ground chicken and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add salsa and simmer for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
2. Prepare the Rice and Toppings
   While the chicken cooks, heat or cook your rice. Warm the black beans and corn in a small saucepan or microwave.
3. Assemble the Bowls
   Start with a base of rice in each bowl. Top with taco-seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, tomatoes, cheese, and any other toppings you like.
4. Serve
   Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice as a base.
• Spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for heat.
• Vegetarian: Swap chicken with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat.
• Different Protein: Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken.
• Mexican Rice Base: Add tomato paste and spices to the rice for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store ingredients separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Microwave or heat chicken and rice on the stovetop until hot. Add fresh toppings after heating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes, replace the spices with 1–2 tablespoons of taco seasoning.

Can I prep the bowls ahead of time?

Yes. Store the chicken, rice, and toppings separately and assemble just before eating.

What kind of rice works best?

White, brown, jasmine, or cauliflower rice all work well—choose based on preference.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Absolutely. Just omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How do I keep avocado from browning?

Toss avocado with lime juice before storing to slow browning.

Are these bowls freezer-friendly?

The chicken and rice freeze well. Add toppings fresh when ready to serve.

Is ground chicken healthy?

Yes, it’s a lean protein that’s lower in fat than beef.

Can I use ground turkey instead?

Yes, it works great as a substitute for ground chicken.

What toppings go well with this bowl?

Try shredded lettuce, sour cream, jalapeños, olives, or pickled red onions.

Can I serve this cold?

The bowl can be enjoyed cold or warm—just avoid adding hot ingredients to fresh avocado or lettuce.

Conclusion

Ground Chicken Taco Bowls are a fast, flavorful, and wholesome meal that’s great for dinner or lunch prep. With tender, seasoned chicken and customizable toppings, they’re a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a healthier taco night option or a filling, make-ahead lunch, this recipe delivers.

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