Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of fresh flavors? The Mojito Lime Chicken Bowl is not just a meal; it's an experience that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Cuba! With zesty lime, fragrant mint, and tender chicken, this dish is a delightful fusion of taste and nutrition. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful gathering with friends, it’s a recipe that promises to impress without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. Get ready to dive into this refreshing bowl of goodness that’s both satisfying and guilt-free!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups quinoa, cooked
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed
- 1 avocado, diced
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the black beans under cold water and set them aside. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions, typically using a ratio of 1 cup of quinoa to 2 cups of water. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, combine the lime juice, chopped fresh mint, and olive oil. Whisk together until well blended to create a marinade for the chicken.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more flavor.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the avocado by cutting it in half, removing the pit, and dicing the flesh. Set aside.
- After the marinating time is complete, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken in the hot skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it is fully cooked through and has a nice golden brown color. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- While the chicken is resting, prepare the bowls. In each serving bowl, add a base of cooked quinoa, followed by a portion of rinsed black beans.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and arrange it on top of the quinoa and black beans. Add the diced avocado on top for creaminess.
- To finish, you can garnish the bowls with additional chopped mint or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your Mojito Lime Chicken Bowl!
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best taste, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even up to an hour if you have the time. This will infuse the chicken with the bright flavors of lime and mint.
- Perfect Quinoa: To achieve fluffy quinoa, rinse it under cold water before cooking. Use a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to water and let it simmer until all the water is absorbed. Fluff it with a fork to keep it light and airy.
- Cook Chicken to Perfection: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add other toppings like cherry tomatoes, corn, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor and texture. The Mojito Lime Chicken Bowl is versatile, so make it your own!
- Garnish for Extra Zing: A squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of extra chopped mint just before serving can elevate the dish, adding a refreshing kick that complements the chicken beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg
