Baja-Style Chicken Bowl Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 2 servings:

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 4 ounces diced cooked chicken
• cup frozen corn
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• cup salsa
• cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken, corn, and sliced bell pepper to the hot oil. Stir occasionally until the mixture is heated through and the pepper is slightly softened, which should take about 5 minutes.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the cooked brown rice into two separate bowls.
5. Evenly divide the chicken and vegetable mixture between the bowls of rice.
6. Top each serving with salsa and a sprinkle of shredded Monterey Jack cheese.

Recipe Tip

For a little extra flavor, try adding the salsa while cooking the chicken mixture instead of after serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein
379	15g	39g	24g

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Total Fat	15g	19%
Saturated Fat	5g	24%
Cholesterol	55mg	18%
Sodium	581mg	25%
Total Carbohydrate	39g	14%
Dietary Fiber	5g	18%
Total Sugars	6g	-
Protein	24g	48%
Vitamin C	80mg	89%
Calcium	146mg	11%
Iron	2mg	11%
Potassium	592mg	13%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

History and Origin

The Baja-Style Chicken Bowl draws inspiration from the Baja California region of Mexico, a coastal area known for its unique blend of Mexican and Mediterranean influences. Baja cuisine, particularly in the cities of Tijuana and Ensenada, is famous for its fresh, flavorful, and often seafood-based dishes. While this chicken bowl isn't a traditional dish from the region, it incorporates typical Baja flavors like fresh salsa, corn, and a tangy, zesty lime accent. The regions proximity to the United States also led to a fusion of Mexican flavors with American fast-food culture, influencing the development of easy-to-make, yet flavorful meals like this one.

Regional Variations

In Baja California, food is often characterized by its use of fresh, local ingredients such as seafood, avocados, and tomatoes. The Baja-Style Chicken Bowl may vary slightly depending on where it is made. In some regions, it may feature grilled fish or shrimp instead of chicken, reflecting the coastal preferences of Baja. Other variations may include adding beans or cilantro-lime rice for extra texture and flavor. Though the base ingredients (chicken, corn, peppers, and salsa) are fairly consistent, the toppings and accompaniments can differ based on local availability and taste preferences.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While the Baja-Style Chicken Bowl shares similarities with other popular "bowl" style dishes, such as the Chipotle burrito bowl or a traditional taco salad, it stands out for its fresh, coastal-inspired flavors. Unlike a typical taco salad, which uses fried taco shell pieces and often features ground beef, the Baja bowl is light and zesty, with grilled chicken, fresh bell peppers, and corn. Additionally, the choice of Monterey Jack cheese and salsa adds a distinctively smooth and tangy contrast that sets it apart from other similar dishes, which may rely on heavier cheese or more complex seasonings.

Where Its Commonly Served

The Baja-Style Chicken Bowl is often served in casual dining establishments and fast-casual restaurants that offer healthy, customizable meal options. You can find it in many Mexican or Baja-inspired restaurants, especially in regions near the U.S.-Mexico border. Its appeal as a quick, satisfying meal makes it popular for lunch or dinner in family-friendly restaurants. Some gourmet food trucks also serve their own takes on the Baja-Style Chicken Bowl, adding unique twists to the classic recipe.

Interesting Facts

• The Baja-Style Chicken Bowl is a prime example of "fusion cuisine," blending traditional Mexican ingredients with American fast-casual dining concepts.
• Baja California is famous for its seafood, particularly fish tacos, which are sometimes incorporated into similar "bowl" dishes.
• While the chicken in this recipe is typically cooked with simple seasoning, adding a bit of salsa while cooking enhances the depth of flavor.
• This dish is often customizable, with many variations including vegetarian options using plant-based proteins like tofu or seasoned jackfruit.

FAQ about Baja-Style Chicken Bowl Recipe

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