The Power Menu Bowl from Taco Bell features seasoned grilled chicken, black beans, seasoned rice, guacamole, sour cream, shredded lettuce, and cheddar cheese, all layered in a bowl for a hearty, flavorful, and colorful meal packed with protein and fresh toppings.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Grill pan or skillet
- Saucepan
- Strainer/colander
- Rice cooker or pot with lid
- Spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater
- Serving bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 cup cooked black beans
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
Ensure the chicken breast is fresh and properly trimmed to maintain tenderness and absorb the taco seasoning evenly. Use canned black beans that have been rinsed and drained to reduce sodium content without sacrificing flavor. Cooking white rice separately allows for better control over texture and prevents clumping in the bowl. When preparing guacamole, select a ripe avocado with slight softness to achieve a creamy consistency, enhanced by fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Your homemade Power Menu Bowl from Taco Bell benefits from layering these ingredients to mimic the original's hearty, protein-packed composition and vibrant taste.
Instructions
- Marinate chicken breasts with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Preheat grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Grill or sear chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through; set aside to rest.
- Cook white rice in rice cooker or pot according to package instructions.
- Season cooked rice with lime juice and chopped cilantro, mix well.
- Rinse and drain black beans in a strainer/colander.
- Halve avocado, remove pit, and scoop flesh into a bowl; mash with salt and lime juice for guacamole.
- Grate cheddar cheese using cheese grater.
- Shred romaine lettuce using chef’s knife and cutting board.
- Slice grilled chicken into strips.
- Assemble serving bowls: layer rice at the bottom.
- Top with black beans, chicken strips, shredded lettuce, cheddar cheese, guacamole, and sour cream.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Power Menu Bowl from Taco Bell copycat menu combines seasoned grilled chicken, black beans, rice, guacamole, sour cream, shredded lettuce, and cheddar cheese for a satisfying and protein-rich dish. If you don't have taco seasoning on hand, a mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika works well as a substitute. When fresh avocado is unavailable, store-bought guacamole or mashed peas can provide a creamy texture similar to guacamole. You can swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier grain option without compromising the dish's integrity. Using a grill pan or skillet to cook the chicken evenly ensures optimal flavor and juiciness in your Power Menu Bowl.
Tips
Ensure the chicken is fully coated in taco seasoning with salt and pepper for maximum flavor before grilling. Let your grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juiciness. When mashing the avocado for guacamole, add lime juice and salt gradually to balance taste and prevent browning. Use freshly shredded lettuce and cheese to maintain their crispness and melty texture when assembling your Power Menu Bowl.
Nutritions
The Power Menu Bowl from Taco Bell provides a balanced meal rich in protein, thanks to the seasoned grilled chicken and black beans. Your meal also includes healthy fats from the avocado-based guacamole, which is a good source of monounsaturated fats and fiber. This bowl offers a decent amount of calcium and fat from the cheddar cheese and sour cream, while the seasoned rice and fresh shredded lettuce contribute carbohydrates and essential vitamins. The combination of these ingredients makes the bowl nutrient-dense, supporting both energy and satiety.
Storage
Store leftover Power Menu Bowl components in separate airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Keep grilled chicken, black beans, and seasoned rice refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, while guacamole and sour cream should be used within 1-2 days to avoid spoilage. Your shredded lettuce and cheese are best stored separately and added fresh when ready to eat.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute grilled chicken with seasoned grilled shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian option. Swap white rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa to increase fiber and reduce carbs in your meal. Enhance the guacamole by adding diced tomatoes or jalapenos for extra texture and heat. You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt to add tanginess and boost protein while keeping your dish creamy.
Allergies
The Power Menu Bowl contains common allergens like dairy in sour cream and cheddar cheese, which may cause reactions in those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The presence of avocado can trigger oral allergy syndrome in sensitive individuals. Make sure to check your personal allergy triggers against the ingredients before enjoying this meal.
Why this recipe?
The Power Menu Bowl from Taco Bell is popular for its balanced combination of protein, rice, black beans, guacamole, and fresh vegetables, catering to those seeking a flavorful and hearty meal. Its high-protein content makes it appealing to health-conscious customers and those who want a fulfilling fast-food option without excessive guilt. Making a copycat version allows you to customize ingredients to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, often with fresher or higher-quality components. Your homemade Power Menu Bowl can provide a satisfying and nutritious alternative that rivals the original, offering convenience and control over portion sizes.