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Ingredients
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Grains & Base
Protein
Vegetables & Add-ins
Sauce & Toppings
Optional Garnishes
Method
Grains & Base
- 1
Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- 2
- 3
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until all water is absorbed and rice is tender.
- 4
Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Keep warm until assembling the box.
Protein
- 5
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until evenly coated.
- 6
Heat 2 tbs olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- 7
Add the chicken in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and sear without moving for 3–4 minutes to get a golden-brown crust, then stir and cook another 3–4 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Remove chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
Vegetables & Add-ins
- 8
- 9
Sauce & Toppings
- 10
While the vegetables cook, whisk together 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tsp minced chipotle in adobo, 1 tsp honey, 1 tsp lime zest and 1/4 tsp salt in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more chipotle if you want more heat.
- 11
To assemble the large box (serves 6–10): In a large shallow serving tray or 12x9" baking dish, spread the warmed rice evenly as the base.
- 12
Arrange the seared chicken over one-third of the rice, and the vegetable–bean mixture over another third. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the remaining third or across the whole pan if you prefer.
- 13
Drizzle the chipotle-yogurt sauce over the chicken and vegetables (or serve on the side). Top everything with sliced green onions and optional sliced avocado and pickled jalapeños if using.
- 14
Serve with tortilla chips on the side for scooping. If serving family-style, provide a spoon for scooping layers into bowls or onto plates.