Campero Chicken Bowl from Pollo Campero features tender grilled chicken, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and seasoned rice, topped with a zesty sauce, all served in a vibrant, colorful bowl for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Rice cooker or pot with lid
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowls
- Tongs
- Spoon or ladle
- Salad spinner
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breast
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup diced ripe tomatoes
- 1/4 cup zesty ranch or creamy chipotle sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Chicken breast should be trimmed and patted dry to ensure it grills evenly and absorbs the smoky paprika, cumin, and garlic powder seasoning properly. Use cooked white rice that is slightly cooled to prevent it from becoming mushy when assembling the bowl. Fresh romaine lettuce and ripe tomatoes add crucial crunch and juiciness, so choose firm lettuce leaves and vine-ripened tomatoes for optimal flavor. The zesty ranch or creamy chipotle sauce provides a balance of creaminess and tang that enhances the grilled chicken and vegetables. Your homemade Campero Chicken Bowl from Pollo Campero will closely replicate the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures of the original restaurant dish.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- Mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper in mixing bowl.
- Coat chicken breasts with seasoning mixture.
- Grill chicken breasts until fully cooked, turning as needed.
- Let grilled chicken rest, then slice into strips.
- Wash and dry lettuce using salad spinner.
- Chop romaine lettuce and dice tomatoes on cutting board with chef’s knife.
- Cook rice in rice cooker or pot if not already cooked.
- Add rice to serving bowls.
- Top rice with chopped lettuce and diced tomatoes.
- Arrange sliced grilled chicken on top of bowl.
- Drizzle with zesty ranch or creamy chipotle sauce.
- Garnish with lime wedges if desired.
- Serve immediately with spoon or ladle and tongs.
Substitution
The Campero Chicken Bowl from Pollo Campero copycat menu combines grilled chicken seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, served over fluffy white rice with fresh romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a zesty ranch or creamy chipotle sauce. If you don't have access to a grill or grill pan, you can cook the chicken in a cast-iron skillet or bake it in the oven, adjusting cooking times accordingly. For a healthier twist, swap white rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa for added nutrients and a lower glycemic index. If zesty ranch or chipotle sauce isn't available, mix mayonnaise with lime juice and chili powder to create a similar creamy, tangy dressing. Your bowl can be customized by adding sliced avocado or jalapenos to elevate flavor and texture.
Tips
Ensure the chicken breast is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture to maximize flavor absorption and prevent dryness while grilling. Rest the grilled chicken for at least 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juiciness and tenderness. Use a salad spinner to thoroughly dry romaine lettuce to avoid sogginess when combined with the sauce and rice. When serving, drizzling the zesty ranch or creamy chipotle sauce just before eating keeps the ingredients fresh and prevents the rice from becoming too moist.
Nutritions
The Campero Chicken Bowl provides a balanced meal rich in lean protein from grilled chicken breast, essential for muscle repair and growth. Fresh romaine lettuce and ripe tomatoes contribute vital vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting digestion and overall health. Cooked white rice serves as a source of carbohydrates, fueling your energy needs throughout the day. The zesty ranch or creamy chipotle sauce adds flavor but should be used in moderation to manage calorie and fat intake.
Storage
Store leftover chicken, rice, lettuce, and tomatoes separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Refrigerate grilled chicken and cooked rice within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days for food safety. Keep your sauce in a sealed container in the fridge, and add it just before serving to preserve the zesty flavor and texture of your Campero Chicken Bowl.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful protein in your Campero Chicken Bowl. Swap white rice for cilantro-lime brown rice or quinoa to add a nutty texture and boost fiber content. Consider roasting or pan-searing the chicken instead of grilling to achieve a different caramelization and accommodate kitchen constraints. For sauce variation, try a fresh avocado crema or a smoky chipotle mayo that complements the zesty seasonings.
Allergies
The Campero Chicken Bowl contains common allergens such as dairy in the zesty ranch or creamy chipotle sauce. You should be cautious if you have allergies to chicken, dairy, or specific spices like cumin or oregano. Cross-contamination risks with other ingredients may also affect those with severe food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Campero Chicken Bowl from Pollo Campero restaurant is loved for its flavorful grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and authentic Guatemalan seasonings that deliver a satisfying and wholesome meal. The perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors creates a unique taste experience that appeals to a wide range of palates. Your attempt to make the copycat version is worth it because it allows you to recreate this delicious and nutritious dish at home, saving money while enjoying the same bold flavors. Experimenting with fresh ingredients and Pollo Campero's signature marinades can bring that irresistible taste straight to your kitchen.