The Adobo Chicken Bowl from Moe's Southwest Grill features tender, smoky adobo-marinated chicken served over a bed of cilantro-lime rice, topped with fresh pico de gallo, black beans, and shredded cheese, offering a flavorful and colorful southwestern feast.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Marinating container
- Grill pan or skillet
- Pot (for rice)
- Saucepan (for beans)
- Rice cooker (optional)
- Grater (for cheese)
- Serving bowls
- Tongs
- Ladle or large spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked cilantro-lime rice
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 limes
The key to achieving authentic flavor in your Adobo Chicken Bowl lies in using fresh adobo sauce and high-quality chicken breast or thighs, which absorb the smoky and tangy spices effectively. Properly rinsing canned black beans removes excess sodium and bitterness, enhancing the dish's overall taste. Fresh pico de gallo should be made just before serving to maintain its vibrant texture and brightness, complementing the warm cilantro-lime rice base perfectly. You can substitute shredded cheddar cheese with a Mexican blend for a creamier and more traditional touch. This Adobo Chicken Bowl from Moe's Southwest Grill copycat menu ensures a balanced combination of smoky, tangy, and fresh ingredients that deliver a southwestern feast right to your table.
Instructions
- Trim and cut chicken as needed using chef’s knife and cutting board.
- Combine adobo sauce, smoked paprika, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper in mixing bowl.
- Add chicken to marinade, toss to coat, and let marinate in container for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Grill or pan-cook marinated chicken until fully cooked, flipping with tongs.
- Rest the chicken for a few minutes, then slice.
- Cook cilantro-lime rice in pot or rice cooker; add chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice.
- Warm black beans in saucepan over low heat.
- Grate cheese if necessary.
- Assemble bowls with rice as base.
- Top rice with sliced chicken, black beans, pico de gallo, and shredded cheese.
- Garnish with cilantro leaves and lime wedges.
- Serve immediately in serving bowls using ladle or large spoon.
Substitution
The Adobo Chicken Bowl from Moe's Southwest Grill copycat menu can be easily customized to suit your pantry or taste preferences. If fresh pico de gallo is unavailable, substitute with store-bought salsa or diced tomatoes mixed with chopped onions and cilantro. For a dairy-free option, swap shredded cheese with avocado slices or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. In case you don't have a grill pan, a skillet or oven broiler can effectively cook the marinated chicken while maintaining smoky flavors. Your choice of rice can also vary; white, brown, or even cauliflower rice work well as the base for this southwestern dish.
Tips
Ensure the chicken is fully coated in the marinade and allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes to maximize flavor absorption. Use medium-high heat when cooking the chicken to achieve a smoky sear without drying it out, flipping once with tongs for even cooking. When preparing the cilantro-lime rice, add fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro after cooking to preserve their vibrant flavor and color. You can customize your bowl by adjusting the amount of pico de gallo and cheese to suit your taste preferences before serving immediately for the best combination of textures and flavors.
Nutritions
The Adobo Chicken Bowl provides a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Chicken, a lean protein, supports muscle maintenance and repair, while black beans add dietary fiber and plant-based protein beneficial for digestion and heart health. Cilantro-lime rice contributes carbohydrates for energy and vitamin C from lime enhances immune function. Your meal also includes antioxidants and healthy fats from olive oil and spices, making this southwestern feast both delicious and nutritious.
Storage
Store leftover Adobo Chicken Bowl components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Refrigerate cooked chicken, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, and pico de gallo within two hours of preparation, consuming them within 3 to 4 days. Your shredded cheese can be kept tightly sealed in the fridge to preserve its texture and flavor for up to a week.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless turkey breast for a leaner protein option that retains moisture during cooking. Swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder to add a spicier, smokier kick to the marinade. Instead of cooking rice separately, try using cauliflower rice sauteed with lime zest and cilantro for a low-carb alternative. For a creamy texture, mix avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream atop the bowl right before serving.
Allergies
The Adobo Chicken Bowl contains common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese, which may cause reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The dish also includes ingredients like black beans that could trigger legume allergies in sensitive individuals. You should verify all components for potential cross-contamination if you have severe food allergies to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
The Adobo Chicken Bowl from Moe's Southwest Grill is beloved for its perfectly seasoned, tender grilled chicken marinated in smoky adobo spices. Paired with fresh ingredients like cilantro-lime rice, black beans, and zesty pico de gallo, it offers a balanced blend of savory and tangy flavors that satisfy your craving for a hearty, flavorful meal. Making a copycat version allows you to customize spice levels and ingredient freshness while recreating a popular dish at home. This bowl is a delicious, nutritious option that combines convenience with bold Southwestern flair worth mastering in your kitchen.