Pollo Fit Bowls from El Pollo Loco feature tender grilled chicken breast, fresh black beans, seasoned rice, and crisp lettuce, topped with zesty salsa and creamy guacamole, served in a colorful, nutrient-packed bowl perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Saucepan
- Rice cooker or pot
- Strainer/colander
- Serving bowls
- Spoon or ladle
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cooked black beans
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup zesty tomato salsa
- 1 cup guacamole
- Lime wedges (optional)
Chicken breast should be boneless and skinless to ensure even grilling and easy slicing into the bowl. Use fresh, ripe ingredients for the salsa and guacamole to maximize flavor and nutritional value. When cooking rice and beans, cooking them separately helps maintain texture and prevents sogginess in the bowl. Be sure to season the chicken thoroughly with chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and paprika for an authentic, zesty taste. Your Pollo Fit Bowls from El Pollo Loco copycat menu will be packed with vibrant flavors and nutrients, perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat chicken breasts with spice mixture.
- Grill chicken breasts until cooked through; let rest, then slice.
- Prepare and cook brown rice in rice cooker or pot.
- Drain and rinse black beans in strainer/colander; warm if desired.
- Chop romaine lettuce with chef’s knife on cutting board.
- Prepare zesty tomato salsa and guacamole if not using store-bought.
- Assemble bowls: layer chopped lettuce, brown rice, and black beans in serving bowls.
- Arrange sliced grilled chicken on top.
- Spoon salsa and guacamole over chicken.
- Garnish with lime wedges if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Pollo Fit Bowls from El Pollo Loco copycat menu offer a versatile and nutritious meal option that allows for ingredient substitutions based on availability or dietary preferences. You can replace chicken breast with grilled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative without sacrificing protein content. If black beans are unavailable, pinto beans or chickpeas work well and maintain similar nutritional value. Using quinoa instead of brown rice boosts the protein and fiber content while adding a slightly different texture to the bowl. Adjust seasonings like chili powder and cumin according to your taste, as these spices are key to replicating the bowl's signature flavor.
Tips
Make sure to preheat your grill or grill pan properly to achieve nice grill marks and even cooking on the chicken breast. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption. Rinsing black beans thoroughly helps remove excess sodium and improves taste, while resting the grilled chicken before slicing keeps it juicy and tender. When assembling your Pollo Fit Bowls, layering ingredients evenly ensures each bite has a balanced blend of flavors and textures for your enjoyment.
Nutritions
Pollo Fit Bowls from El Pollo Loco provide a balanced mix of lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them ideal for a nutritious meal. Each bowl contains grilled chicken breast rich in high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and satiety. Black beans and brown rice contribute complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber that support digestive health and sustained energy release. The inclusion of fresh romaine lettuce, zesty tomato salsa, and guacamole adds vitamins, antioxidants, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, benefiting your overall well-being.
Storage
Store leftover Pollo Fit Bowls in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Keep guacamole and salsa separate in small containers to prevent sogginess and refrigerate within two hours of preparation. Consume leftovers within 3 days and reheat chicken and rice thoroughly before serving to ensure food safety.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap boneless chicken breast for thigh meat to add extra juiciness and flavor to your Pollo Fit Bowls. Use quinoa instead of brown rice for a boost of protein and a nuttier taste. Toss the black beans with a dash of cumin and lime juice before adding to enhance their zest. Consider grilling your salsa ingredients for a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the creamy guacamole atop the bowl.
Allergies
Pollo Fit Bowls contain common allergens such as black beans, which may trigger legume allergies in sensitive individuals. The salsa and guacamole may include ingredients like tomatoes and avocados, which could cause allergic reactions in some people. Be sure to check for any personal allergies to spices like chili powder or cumin before enjoying your meal.
Why this recipe?
El Pollo Loco's Pollo Fit Bowls menu is popular for its balanced combination of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, catering to health-conscious customers seeking nutritious, satisfying meals. Each bowl offers customizable options, allowing you to tailor ingredients to your dietary preferences while enjoying high-quality, flame-grilled chicken. The vibrant, wholesome ingredients provide a fulfilling taste experience without excess calories or additives often found in fast food. Trying to make a copycat version at home lets you control portion sizes and ingredient quality while replicating the delicious, savory flavors that make these bowls a favorite for healthy eating.