Southwestern Chicken Black Bean Power Bowls

Meal Prep Saludable Southwestern Chicken Power Bowls

By Alex BradleyOctober 4, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction: Southwestern Chicken & Black Bean Power Bowls

Fancy a Meal Prep Saludable option that’s both delicious and good for you? I've got you covered!. This Southwestern Chicken & Black Bean Power Bowl is bursting with smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavours, making it the perfect easy healthy meal prep choice for busy bees.

Okay, let's get this show on the road!

Why This Power Bowl Rocks

Originating from the Southwest's love for bold flavors, this bowl brings a fiesta to your lunch. It's an easy recipe, perfect even for kitchen newbies.

You'll spend around 45 minutes whipping up 4 bowls , ready to fuel your week.

Benefits Beyond the Bowl

These power bowls are packed with protein to keep you full and energised all day long. This Meal Prep Saludable option is also fantastic for anyone looking for healthy meal prep recipes or meal prep para adelgazar .

It's an all-around winner.

These bowls are ideal for taking to the office and packing a punch of nutrition. This Chicken and black bean bowl meal prep is special because it is versatile, bursting with flavour, and keeps you on track with your health goals.

Now, let's talk ingredients!

Ingredients & Equipment

Okay, let's get this show on the road! We are about to have a Meal Prep Saludable time, Let's dive into what you need for these awesome Southwestern Chicken & Black Bean Power Bowls.

Honestly, it's not a huge list. We are aiming for easy healthy meal prep , right?

Main Ingredients: The Building Blocks

Chicken: You will need 1.5 lbs (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Quality matters here. Look for chicken that's plump and pink, not pale or slimy. Nobody wants sketchy chicken, am I right?
Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15ml) for the chicken and another 1 tbsp (15ml) for the black beans. Extra virgin is best, but any olive oil you have kicking around will do.
Spices: 1 tbsp (15ml) chili powder, 1 tsp (5ml) smoked paprika, 1 tsp (5ml) ground cumin, 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) garlic powder, 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) salt, and 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) black pepper. Don't skimp on the smoked paprika. It adds that Southwestern flair!
Black Beans: Two 15-ounce (425g) cans, rinsed and drained. Rinsing is key! Trust me on this one.
Onion: 1 medium onion, chopped.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup (120ml) , low sodium.
Cilantro: 1/4 cup (60ml) , chopped. Fresh is always better.
Lime: Juice of 1 lime.
Brown Rice: 2 cups (400g) , cooked. Quinoa works great too if you're feeling fancy.
Toppings: 1 avocado, 1/2 cup (80g) cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup (40g) red onion, salsa, Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream, Cheddar Cheese. These are all optional, but highly recommended!

Seasoning Notes: Flavor Town

These spices are your essential team to a comida saludable para llevar . The combination of chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin is magic.

This blend screams "Southwest". Don't be afraid to adjust the amounts to your liking. Some people like it hotter than others! For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.

If you're missing an ingredient, don't panic. Cumin can stand in for chili powder and vice versa at about half the amount.

If you don't have fresh cilantro, parsley can work in a pinch, although it won't have the same citrusy zing.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

You don't need a ton of fancy equipment to make these recetas saludables para la semana . Just a few essentials will do.

Large Skillet or Frying Pan: For cooking the chicken. Non-stick is your best friend here.
Medium Saucepan: For simmering the black beans.
Cutting Board and Chef's Knife: For chopping veggies and chicken. A sharp knife makes all the difference.
Mixing Bowls: For prepping ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is important!
4 Meal Prep Containers : Obvs.

Got no saucepan? No problem. Use a pot instead. I have made almuerzos saludables para preparar with a microwave, with ingenuity, you can make some fantastic ideas de comida saludable para la oficina .

Don't have measuring spoons? Eyeball it. Cooking is about having fun, is about be in a meal prep para adelgazar plan, it is about creating Southwestern meal prep ideas .

And if all else fails, order takeout.

Now you are armed to make high protein meal prep recipes and everything you need to kick this recipe into high gear!

Mastering the Chicken: The Heart of Your Meal Prep Saludable

Okay, let's get this show on the road! We're diving deep into the most important part of your Southwestern Chicken & Black Bean Power Bowl: the chicken itself.

We want juicy, flavourful chicken that makes you actually look forward to your healthy meal prep recipes all week. Nobody wants sad, dry chicken!

Prep Like a Pro: Chicken Edition

First, the essential mise en place . Gather your 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts, olive oil, and spices. Time saving tip: measure out your chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into a small bowl beforehand.

It's all about efficiency, baby! A quick safety reminder : always wash your hands after handling raw chicken. Honestly, that should be common sense, but you never know, right?

Cooking Method: Getting That Chicken Just Right

Mix your spices. Combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Don't be shy!
Rub it in. Evenly coat those chicken breasts with your spice mix. Get in there, massage those spices in the chicken deserves a spa day!
Heat the skillet. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil to a large skillet over medium high heat. You want it hot, but not smoking .
Sear and cook. Place the chicken in the skillet. Cook for about 6- 8 minutes per side , until it reaches an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) . A meat thermometer is your best friend here.
Rest is best. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before dicing. This helps retain those precious juices.

Pro Tips for Chicken Perfection

Don't overcrowd the pan! This lowers the temperature and steams the chicken instead of searing it. Sear each piece separately to get that beautiful golden brown crust.

My grandma always said "Brown food tastes good!" I can't argue with that.

Common mistake: overcooking the chicken. This is chicken crime. A meat thermometer is your savior here.

For make-ahead options , cook the chicken on Sunday and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to 3 days.

You know, like a Chicken and black bean bowl meal prep . And if you were wondering about ideas de comida saludable para la oficina , there you go.

Now you have a southwestern meal prep idea . Easy peasy! You've nailed the almuerzos saludables para preparar and you are set for the week.

And with that high protein content, it is also a meal prep para adelgazar winner.

Recipe Notes That'll Make You Shine!

Okay, let's get this show on the road! And dive into the little secrets that make these Southwestern Chicken & Black Bean Power Bowls truly shine.

It's more than just a recipe, it's a journey towards a healthier, happier you. Think Meal Prep Saludable , easy, tasty, and totally doable.

Presentation Power-Up: Plating Like a Pro

Honestly, presentation matters! Layering your bowl isn't just about aesthetics; it's about flavor distribution. Start with the rice. Then, strategically place your chicken and beans.

Next add a sprinkle of vibrant toppings. A swirl of sour cream and bam You've got a masterpiece. I learned the hard way: soggy rice is not a good look.

Sidekick Superstars: Complementary Delights

These bowls are amazing solo, but even better with friends! Corn on the cob? Yes, please. Guacamole? Always a good idea.

A light Mexican beer? (Over 18s, drink responsibly!) Think about adding a side of Mexican street corn salad. I tried adding tortilla chips once.

It was good, but a little much.

Storage Savvy: Keeping It Fresh

Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days . Make sure everything is completely cool before packing. Seriously, don't skip this step! I’ve made that mistake, and nobody wants a soggy, questionable bowl after a couple of days.

To be honest, anything you freeze with avocado may go bad!

If you are wondering about Easy healthy meal prep , This recipe is the perfect answer.

Adaptations & Swaps: Your Bowl, Your Rules

Need gluten-free? Quinoa is your bestie. Veggie vibes? Halloumi or tofu to the rescue! No black beans? Pinto or kidney beans will do the trick.

Adjusting to your dietary needs, tastes, and what's in your fridge is key to making healthy meal prep recipes work for you.

Nutrition Nuggets: Knowledge Is Power

These bowls are protein packed. They are loaded with fiber, and full of goodness. They are also relatively low in sugar.

It’s the trifecta of healthy eating! Think sustained energy, happy gut, and a body that thanks you. Plus, with the Southwestern meal prep ideas , it's far from boring.

Let's get you going with some Ideas de comida saludable para la oficina . And now, it is time for Comida saludable para llevar

So, there you have it! Time to make some magic happen in your kitchen. Remember, cooking should be fun. Don't be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own.

You’ve got this! These Recetas saludables para la semana are not going to cook themselves. And if you want Meal prep para adelgazar here is your chance to eat healthily and enjoy the process

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will this Meal Prep Saludable last in the fridge? I don't want any dodgy tummies!

This Southwestern Chicken & Black Bean Power Bowl will happily keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, as long as it's stored properly in airtight containers. Be sure to let all the components cool down completely before assembling and refrigerating them; this helps prevent condensation and keeps everything fresher for longer.

Always use your best judgment if it looks or smells off, best to chuck it!

Can I freeze this "Meal Prep Saludable" recipe for longer storage?

You can indeed freeze this meal prep, but with a few caveats. It's best to freeze the chicken and black bean mixture separately from the rice and toppings to maintain optimal texture. The cooked rice can become a bit mushy after thawing, and fresh toppings like avocado definitely won't hold up well.

Thaw everything in the fridge overnight and add fresh toppings just before serving for the best results.

I'm not a huge fan of cilantro. What's a good substitute in this healthy meal prep recipe?

Not a problem! Some folks think cilantro tastes like soap, so you're not alone. A great alternative is fresh parsley. It provides a similar fresh, green flavour, although it's a bit milder. You could also try using the green tops of scallions (spring onions) for a bit of a sharper, oniony bite.

Can I make this a vegetarian or vegan Meal Prep Saludable option? I'm trying to eat less meat these days.

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, halloumi cheese is a great substitute for the chicken because it holds its shape well when cooked. Or, for a vegan option, try using seasoned and pan-fried tofu or tempeh.

Just swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth when cooking the black beans to keep the entire dish plant based.

Any tips for preventing the avocado from turning brown in my meal prep bowls? It's the pits when that happens!

Ah, the dreaded browning avocado! There are a few tricks you can try. First, toss the diced avocado with a little bit of lime or lemon juice the acid helps to slow down oxidation. Secondly, store the avocado separately in an airtight container until just before serving.

Or, if you're feeling fancy, you could add a thin layer of olive oil over the avocado before sealing it this creates a barrier against the air.

Is there a way to make this meal prep even healthier, perhaps lower in sodium?

Definitely! Opt for low-sodium chicken broth, and rinse the canned black beans thoroughly to remove excess salt. You can also control the sodium levels by using homemade spice blends for the chicken instead of pre-made mixes, which often contain added salt.

Load up on fresh herbs and spices to boost the flavour without relying on salt.