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In the world of culinary experiences, few dishes can capture your taste buds quite like Spicy BBQ Chicken & Rice Bowls. This vibrant meal combines succulent marinated chicken, zesty rice, and a medley of fresh toppings to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The spicy kick from the BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with the savory richness of the chicken, while the fluffy rice serves as the perfect canvas to absorb all the deliciousness. With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful contrast of heat, tanginess, and freshness, making this dish a standout choice for any occasion.

Spicy BBQ Chicken & Rice Bowls

Discover the deliciousness of Spicy BBQ Chicken & Rice Bowls, a perfect blend of flavorful marinated chicken, zesty rice, and vibrant toppings. This recipe is easy to customize, ensuring everyone at your table enjoys their own delicious creation. The juicy chicken pairs well with fluffy rice and fresh veggies for a satisfying meal that's ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings. Elevate your culinary game with this versatile and enticing dish!

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1/4 cup spicy BBQ sauce (adjust based on heat preference)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice:

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth (or water)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon lime juice

Zest of 1 lime

For the Toppings:

1 cup corn (canned or frozen)

1 avocado, diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for extra heat)

Fresh cilantro, chopped

Lime wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs, spicy BBQ sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

      Cook the Rice:

        Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium-sized pot, bring the chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, stir in lime juice and lime zest, and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

          Cook the Chicken:

            Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken has nice grill marks. Transfer to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

              Assemble the Bowls:

                In each serving bowl, place a scoop of the lime-infused rice at the bottom. Layer on the sliced BBQ chicken. Top with corn, diced avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and jalapeño slices if using. Garnish with fresh cilantro and squeeze lime juice over the top for brightness.

                  Serve:

                    Serve immediately while warm and enjoy a delightful explosion of flavors and textures in every bite!

                      Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4