Why You’ll Love This Savory Carnitas Style Bowl with Rice and Corn Salsa and Tangy Crema 🍽️🌽

Hey there, food lovers! Are you ready for a flavor explosion in a bowl? This Savory Carnitas-Style Chicken Bowl is exactly what you need for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal. Forget takeout – this recipe is surprisingly easy to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. The vibrant colors alone will make your mouth water!

What makes this bowl so special? It’s all about the delightful combination of textures and tastes. The tender, juicy chicken, seasoned with a hint of citrus and spices, mimics the deliciousness of carnitas without the long cooking time. The sweet corn salsa adds a burst of freshness and a pleasant crunch, while the creamy, tangy salsa verde crema ties everything together beautifully. The fluffy rice provides a perfect base, ensuring a satisfying and complete meal.

Imagine this: you’re sinking your teeth into a warm, comforting bowl, the tender chicken melting in your mouth, the sweet corn popping with flavor, and the creamy crema adding a zesty finish. It’s a fiesta of flavors and textures, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a meal that’s both healthy and incredibly flavorful? Prepare to be amazed by how simple yet satisfying this bowl truly is! Get ready to taste the sunshine in every bite!

Delicious & Easy Savory Carnitas-Style Chicken Bowl

What You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients for this flavorful fiesta! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound cubed lean chicken thighs: The star of the show! Lean chicken thighs provide juicy, tender meat.
1 cup cooked rice: Your base for this delicious bowl. Use your favorite type of rice – long grain, basmati, or even brown rice would work beautifully.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For a healthy and flavorful base for cooking the chicken.
1/4 cup orange juice: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
1 tablespoon lime juice: A touch of acidity to balance the richness of the chicken and crema.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: For a subtle onion flavor without the need for chopping.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A classic pairing with chicken that enhances its savory profile.
1 clove garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a pungent kick to the chicken.
1/4 teaspoon salt: To season the chicken and enhance its flavor.
1/8 teaspoon black pepper: A pinch of black pepper adds a bit of spice and depth.
1 cup corn kernels, grilled or roasted: Grilled or roasted corn offers a smoky sweetness and wonderful texture. Frozen corn works in a pinch, too!
1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Adds a refreshing, slightly citrusy aroma and flavor to the salsa.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds visual appeal and a slightly peppery note.

For the Salsa Verde Crema:

1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for our vibrant salsa verde crema.
1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Adds fresh flavor and vibrant green color.
1/4 teaspoon salt: To season the crema perfectly.
1/8 teaspoon black pepper: A little black pepper enhances the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is easier than you think.

Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken thighs with orange juice, lime juice, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. Tip: Marinating the chicken longer will result in more tender and flavorful meat.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and nicely browned (about 8-10 minutes). Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Make the Salsa Verde Crema: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the salsa verde crema. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. Tip: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – add more salt, pepper, or cilantro to your liking.
Prepare the Corn Salsa: If using fresh corn, grill or roast the corn kernels until slightly charred and sweet. Let them cool slightly before adding them to a bowl. If using frozen corn, simply thaw it before proceeding. Add the chopped cilantro and parsley to the corn. Tip: For extra flavor, add a diced jalapeño or a squeeze of lime juice to the corn salsa.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly among bowls. Top with the cooked chicken, corn salsa, and a generous dollop of salsa verde crema. Garnish with extra cilantro or parsley if desired. Tip: For a heartier bowl, add black beans, avocado slices, or shredded cheese.

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Adjust the seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice or herb to suit your preferences.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will make a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
Grill the corn for extra flavor: Grilling the corn adds a smoky char that elevates the overall taste of the bowl.
Make it ahead: The chicken, salsa, and crema can be prepared in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls just before serving.

Variations to Try

Spicy Carnitas Bowl: Add a diced jalapeño or some chili flakes to the chicken marinade or corn salsa for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Bowl: Replace the chicken with seasoned black beans or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty vegetarian option.
Gluten-Free Bowl: Ensure your rice and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Shrimp Carnitas Bowl: Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a lighter, seafood-inspired version.
Avocado Carnitas Bowl: Add sliced avocado to the bowl for a creamy and healthy addition.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently microwave individual portions until heated through, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The crema may separate slightly upon reheating; simply stir it back in. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the chicken and salsa may be affected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they tend to be drier than thighs. To prevent dryness, consider marinating them for a longer period and cooking them to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q: How long does the salsa verde crema keep?
A: The salsa verde crema will keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, the chicken, salsa, and crema can be prepared a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls just before serving.

Q: What other vegetables can I add to this bowl?
A: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables! Bell peppers, onions, or shredded cabbage would be delicious additions.

Q: Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or grilled?
A: Yes, you can use canned corn, but be sure to drain it well before using. The flavor might be slightly less intense compared to fresh or grilled corn.

The Final Word

This Savory Carnitas-Style Chicken Bowl is a winner for its ease of preparation, vibrant flavors, and satisfying textures. The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn salsa, and tangy crema is simply irresistible! It’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend lunch. Give this recipe a try, and let us know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your delicious creations with us! We can’t wait to hear from you!

Savory Carnitas Style Bowl with Rice and Corn Salsa and Tangy Crema 🍽️🌽

Bowl up some flavor with this mouthwatering dish that fuses vibrant ingredients and delightful textures! Get ready to savor every bite!

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Ingredients

* 1 cup cooked long-grain rice
* 1 pound cubed lean chicken thighs
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 cup orange juice
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* 1 cup corn kernels grilled or roasted
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1 clove garlic minced
For the Salsa Verde Crema:
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

**Prepare the Chicken:** In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
**Cook the Chicken:** Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). Add orange juice during the last few minutes of cooking to create a light sauce.
**Make the Salsa Verde Crema:** In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
**Prepare the Corn Salsa:** In a separate bowl, combine the grilled or roasted corn kernels, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
**Assemble the Bowls:** Divide the cooked rice evenly among four bowls. Top with the cooked chicken, corn salsa, and a generous dollop of Salsa Verde Crema.
**Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with extra cilantro, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

You can use bone-in chicken thighs for a richer flavor, but adjust cooking time accordingly. For extra smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of pan-frying. Feel free to add other vegetables to the corn salsa, such as diced red onion or bell peppers.