My Favorite Taco Rice Bowl Recipe
Taco Rice Bowls have become a staple in my kitchen, and for good reason! This one-dish wonder combines the hearty flavors of taco night with the comfort of a rice bowl. It’s versatile enough for a laid-back weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends. Trust me, the vibrant colors and mouthwatering textures make it not just a meal, but an experience. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without the fuss. You’ll soon find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again!
“This Taco Rice Bowl is a crowd-pleaser! My kids devoured it, and it’s so quick to make. I love how customizable it is!”
Why you’ll love this dish
Why put this Taco Rice Bowl on your menu? For starters, it’s incredibly quick and easy to assemble; you can whip it up in less than 30 minutes. The flavors are spot-on—who doesn’t love the bold zip of taco seasoning paired with fresh ingredients? Moreover, it’s budget-friendly, using simple staples that you likely already have. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a dish for meal prep, this recipe shines. It’s perfect for those hectic weeknights or whenever you crave a satisfying, nutritious meal without too much hassle.
Step-by-step overview
Making the Taco Rice Bowl is a breeze! You’ll start by cooking the rice to fluffy perfection, then brown the ground chicken in a skillet. Next, you’ll blend in the taco seasoning, canned tomatoes, black beans, and corn until everything is heated through. Finally, it all comes together as you layer the rice, chicken mixture, cheese, and creamy avocado in individual bowls. It’s simple enough that you may even get the kids involved!
What you’ll need
Here’s a handy list of ingredients to gather before diving into this delicious recipe:
- 1 cup rice
- 1 lb ground chicken (or vegetarian protein)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Sour cream (optional)
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Feel free to swap out the ground chicken for your preferred vegetarian protein, or mix in your favorite toppings!
Directions to follow
- Cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground chicken over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, followed by the diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Combine well and heat through.
- Assemble the rice bowls: start with a scoop of rice at the bottom, add the chicken mixture, and top with shredded cheese and avocado slices.
- Add a dollop of sour cream, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and serve warm.
Best ways to enjoy it
Looking for the best way to serve your Taco Rice Bowl? Get creative! You might plate it in vibrant bowls for a family-style dinner or arrange the ingredients in a fun self-serve bar for a gathering. Consider pairing it with a fresh side salad, tortilla chips, or even some zesty salsa for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!
How to store & freeze
Got leftovers? No problem! To keep your Taco Rice Bowl fresh, store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to make a larger batch ahead of time, you can also freeze the chicken mixture without toppings. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When reheating, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Helpful cooking tips
- For an extra flavor boost, sauté some onions and garlic before browning the ground chicken.
- Use brown or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
- Prep the ingredients ahead of time for a fast dinner fix—simply assemble when you’re ready to eat!
Creative twists
Want to switch things up? Try adding different flavors to your Taco Rice Bowl! You can incorporate roasted sweet potatoes, swap the cheese for a dairy-free option, or even top it with pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick. Get adventurous—this dish lends itself beautifully to experimentation!
Common questions
What is the prep time for Taco Rice Bowl?
The total time from start to finish is about 30 minutes, including rice preparation.
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or plant-based proteins are all excellent substitutes.
How can I make this meal gluten-free?
Simply check your taco seasoning for gluten and use a gluten-free version, if needed!
Now that you’re equipped with everything you need to create this vivid and flavorful Taco Rice Bowl, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Enjoy every satisfying bite!
Taco Rice Bowl
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 1 lb ground chicken (or vegetarian protein) Can substitute with ground turkey, beef, or plant-based proteins.
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 packet taco seasoning Ensure gluten-free if necessary.
- 1 cup shredded cheese Can use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
- 1 avocado, sliced
- as needed Sour cream (optional)
- as needed Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground chicken over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, followed by the diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Combine well and heat through.
- Assemble the rice bowls: start with a scoop of rice at the bottom, add the chicken mixture, and top with shredded cheese and avocado slices.
- Add a dollop of sour cream, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and serve warm.
