Go Back
Spicy Hatch Chili Chicken Rice Bowls are a delightful fusion of robust flavors and wholesome ingredients, making them an ideal choice for anyone seeking a satisfying and nutritious meal. These bowls are not just a feast for the taste buds; they also offer a vibrant and colorful presentation that makes every bite a delight. The star of this dish, Hatch chiles, brings a unique heat and flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional rice bowls. The combination of tender marinated chicken, fragrant rice, and a medley of fresh toppings creates a well-rounded dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week.

Hatch Chili Chicken Rice Bowls

Discover the vibrant and flavorful world of Spicy Hatch Chili Chicken Rice Bowls! This delightful dish combines tender marinated chicken, fragrant jasmine rice, and colorful fresh toppings to create a satisfying, nutritious meal. With the unique heat of Hatch chiles at its core, this dish offers versatility for every palate. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it promises a culinary adventure that’s both easy to make and a feast for the senses. Enjoy each delicious bite!

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

2 tablespoons hatch green chili sauce (or diced hatch chiles)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Rice:

1 cup jasmine rice

2 cups chicken broth

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1/2 teaspoon salt

Toppings:

1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup corn, canned or frozen (thawed if using frozen)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 ripe avocado, sliced

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional: crumbled feta cheese or queso fresco

Fresh lime wedges for garnish

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, hatch chili sauce, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours to enhance the flavor.

      Prepare the Rice:

        Rinse the jasmine rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, chicken broth, butter, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Once cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.

          Cook the Chicken:

            Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Remove the marinated chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in the skillet. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has developed a golden brown crust. To ensure proper doneness, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

              Assemble the Bowls:

                In individual serving bowls, start by adding a generous portion of jasmine rice as the base. Layer the sliced chicken on top, then add the rinsed black beans, corn, halved cherry tomatoes, and avocado slices. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro for added brightness.

                  Finish and Serve:

                    If desired, enhance your bowls with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or queso fresco for a creamy and tangy touch. For that extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over the entire dish just before serving. Serve immediately and savor the deliciousness of your Spicy Hatch Chili Chicken Rice Bowls!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings.