Copycat Panera Baja Bowls with Chicken

I love simple bowls that feed a family fast and taste fresh.

This copycat Panera Baja Bowl with chicken is easy and full of flavor. It mixes warm brown rice, tender chicken, beans, corn, and fresh toppings. If you like simple grain bowls, try a similar dish like buffalo chicken bowls for another easy meal idea.

Why This Recipe Works

The rice gives a warm base and the beans add protein and texture. Cooked chicken keeps the bowl filling. Fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro add bright flavor. Simple spices (cumin and chili powder) give the bowl a mild smoky taste that ties the mix together.

Why you should try this recipe

This bowl is quick to make with simple pantry items. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. It is healthy and easy to change to your taste. Kids and adults both like it.

How to make Copycat Panera Baja Bowls with Chicken

Cook the rice first. Mix the cooked rice with diced chicken, black beans, corn, and spices. Divide the mix into bowls and top with lettuce, avocado, cheese, and cilantro. Add lime and dressing to finish.

Ingredients :

2 cups cooked brown rice, 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced, 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed, 1 cup corn, canned or frozen, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1 avocado, sliced, 1 cup shredded lettuce, 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional), 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped, Lime wedges, Spices (cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper) to taste, Dressing (e.g., chipotle ranch or vinaigrette)

Equipments Needed

• Large pot for rice
• Large bowl for mixing
• Cutting board and knife
• Serving bowls
• Spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions :

1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, diced chicken, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and spices.
3. Assemble the bowls by dividing the mixture into serving bowls.
4. Top each bowl with lettuce, avocado slices, cheese, and cilantro.
5. Serve with lime wedges and your choice of dressing.

How to serve Copycat Panera Baja Bowls with Chicken

Serve warm or at room temperature. Add a lime wedge on the side and drizzle with chipotle ranch or a light vinaigrette. For a fuller meal, serve with warm bread or a side like cheesy chicken garlic wraps.

How to store Copycat Panera Baja Bowls with Chicken

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep avocado slices separate or add them just before serving to avoid browning. If you add dressing, store it separately to keep the bowl fresh.

Tips & Tricks

• Use warm rice so the bowl feels cozy.
• Chop the chicken small so every bite has protein.
• Rinse canned beans well to remove extra salt.
• For extra flavor, toast the spices briefly in a pan before mixing.
• For more ideas on cooking proteins and sides, see this easy meat cooking guide.

Variations & Substitutions

• Swap brown rice for white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
• Use shrimp, steak, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Swap black beans for pinto or kidney beans.
• Use salsa, plain yogurt, or a different dressing to change the flavor.
• Make it spicy by adding sliced jalapeño or hot sauce.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Skip the chicken and add extra beans, tofu, or roasted vegetables.

Q: Can I use frozen corn?
A: Yes. Thaw it quickly by rinsing under warm water or microwave for a minute.

Q: How do I keep the avocado from browning?
A: Toss the avocado with a little lime juice and add it just before serving.

Q: Can I meal prep this for the week?
A: Yes. Store the base (rice, beans, corn) in one container and toppings in another. Add avocado and dressing when you eat.

Conclusion

This Copycat Panera Baja Bowl with Chicken is an easy, tasty meal you can make at home. For a different take on this bowl, you can compare with the original-style recipe at Baja Bowl with Chicken (Panera Copycat) – Stephanie Kay Nutrition. If you want another step-by-step copycat version, check this detailed guide: Copycat Panera Bread Baja Bowl Recipe with Chicken.

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