Easy Chicken Taco Bowl Recipe

Download a print-friendly version of our easy chicken taco bowl recipe.

Serves 4

• 1 packet of reduced-sodium taco seasoning, or try our homemade taco seasoning
• 1/4 cup lime juice or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1-pound uncooked chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 medium onion, sliced into strips
• 1 bell pepper (color of choice), sliced into strips
• 1 can (14 ounces) of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 3/4 cup of your favorite salsa
• 4 cups mixed lettuce greens
• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• Optional toppings: avocado, cheese, tomatoes, salsa, corn,* plain Greek yogurt (in place of sour cream)

*Safety note: If serving grape or cherry tomatoes to children younger than 4 years of age cut them in quarters to reduce choking risk.

1. Preheat oven to 350° F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together taco seasoning, lime juice and olive oil. Add chicken, onions and peppers. Stir until coated.
3. Arrange seasoned chicken, onion and peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350° F for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165° F.
4. In a separate, microwave-safe bowl, combine the black beans and salsa. Heat* for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
5. Remove chicken, onions and peppers from the oven.
6. Build your bowl:
• 1/2 cup warmed rice
• 1/2 cup warmed bean mixture
• 1/2 cup chicken mixture
• 1 cup lettuce greens
• Any additional toppings of choice

* You can also warm the beans and salsa on the stovetop in a saucepan. Add 1/2 to 3/4 cup water to account for evaporation.

This homemade taco seasoning recipe makes the equivalent of about 3 packets of store-bought taco seasoning.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 3 tablespoons cumin
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 1/2 teaspoons ground smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander (or oregano)
• 2 teaspoons ground black pepper

Directions

• Combine ingredients.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months in the pantry.

See below for the nutrition facts for 1 serving of the chicken taco bowl (toppings and taco seasoning not included).

Calories: 420
Protein: 34 grams
Total carbohydrates: 54 grams
Dietary fiber: 10 grams
Total fat: 8 grams

Nutrition facts are an estimate and vary based on serving size.

When kids are a part of mealtime prep and decisions, they are more likely to try the food offered.

Based on your child's age and skill level, get them involved by letting them:

• Pour and mix the homemade taco seasoning spices together.
• Mix the beans and salsa before warming.
• Wash and tear the lettuce.
• Create their own bowl by scooping up the foods they want to try.

This recipe has been tested at the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Kauffman Family Teaching Kitchen, located in the Center for Advanced Pediatrics. The Kauffman Family Teaching Kitchen offers interactive, hands-on cooking and nutrition classes for patients, their families and children in the community.

To learn more, email teachingkitchen@choa.org.