Looking for a delicious, nutritious, and protein-packed meal? This Chipotle Shrimp Bowl is the perfect choice! With garlic-spiced shrimp, flavorful rice, hearty black beans, refreshing tomato-cilantro salsa, and a creamy chipotle sauce, this dish is a delightful combination of bold flavors and satisfying textures.
This balanced bowl is ideal for a quick and healthy dinner, perfect after a workout or a long day. It provides lean protein, fiber, healthy carbs, and good fats, making it a powerhouse meal.
Follow this detailed recipe, complete with cooking tips, ingredient substitutions, and variations to suit your taste!
Why Youβll Love This Chipotle Shrimp Bowl
β High in Protein β Over 42g of protein per serving!
β Big, Bold Flavors β A smoky, spicy, and fresh taste explosion.
β Healthy & Balanced β Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
β Quick & Easy β Ready in under 30 minutes.
β Customizable β Easily adaptable to low-carb, keto, or vegetarian diets.
The Benefits of Key Ingredients
π€ Shrimp β An excellent source of lean protein, low in calories, and rich in selenium and omega-3s.
π§ Garlic β Enhances flavor and provides immune-boosting benefits.
πΆοΈ Paprika & Chili Powder β Add a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
π Rice β A great source of complex carbs, ideal for energy and satiety.
π« Black Beans β High in fiber, plant-based protein, and minerals.
π
Tomato-Cilantro Salsa β Refreshing and full of antioxidants.
π₯ Avocado β Provides healthy fats, potassium, and fiber.
πΆοΈ Greek Yogurt Chipotle Sauce β Creamy, spicy, and low in calories.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
For the Spiced Shrimp
- π€ 250g (about Β½ lb) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- π§ 2 cloves garlic, minced
- πΆοΈ 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- π₯ Β½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to spice preference)
- π§ Β½ teaspoon salt
- π₯ 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Bowl Base
- π 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- π« Β½ cup black beans, rinsed and drained
For the Tomato-Cilantro Salsa
- π Β½ cup fresh tomatoes, diced
- πΏ 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- π§ Pinch of salt
- π Juice of Β½ lime
For the Chipotle Greek Yogurt Sauce
- π₯ Β½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- πΆοΈ 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (or Β½ teaspoon chipotle powder)
- π§ 1 garlic clove, minced
- π Juice of Β½ lime
- π§ Salt to taste
Toppings & Garnishes
- π₯ 1 avocado, sliced
- πΏ Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- π Lime wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle Greek Yogurt Sauce
1οΈβ£ In a small blender or bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, chipotle pepper, minced garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
2οΈβ£ Blend until smooth. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a tablespoon of water or milk.
3οΈβ£ Store in the refrigerator while preparing the rest of the dish.
π‘ Pro Tip: This sauce can be made ahead and stored for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Step 2: Cook the Spiced Shrimp
1οΈβ£ Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2οΈβ£ Add minced garlic and sautΓ© for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3οΈβ£ Add shrimp, sprinkle with paprika, chili powder, and salt, and toss to coat evenly.
4οΈβ£ Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until shrimp turn pink and slightly golden.
π₯ Be Careful! Shrimp cook very quickly. Overcooking them will make them rubberyβso remove them as soon as theyβre opaque and pink.
Step 3: Make the Tomato-Cilantro Salsa
1οΈβ£ In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
2οΈβ£ Stir well and let sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
π‘ Pro Tip: Want extra flavor? Add chopped red onion or roasted corn to the salsa!
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
1οΈβ£ Start with a layer of cooked rice in a bowl.
2οΈβ£ Add a portion of black beans to one side.
3οΈβ£ Arrange the spiced shrimp over the rice.
4οΈβ£ Top with tomato-cilantro salsa and sliced avocado.
5οΈβ£ Drizzle with the chipotle yogurt sauce.
6οΈβ£ Garnish with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Bowl
β Donβt Overload the Bowl β For a visually appealing dish, arrange ingredients in sections and mix just before eating.
β Fluffy Rice β Use slightly cooled rice to prevent it from getting sticky.
β Spice Level β If you love heat, add a dash of hot sauce or extra adobo sauce to the shrimp.
β Creamy Texture β For a richer bowl, add a spoonful of shredded cheese or sour cream.
Variations & Substitutions
π₯ Low-Carb / Keto Version β Replace rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
π± Vegetarian Option β Swap shrimp for grilled tofu or spiced chickpeas.
π₯© Other Proteins β Try it with grilled chicken, salmon, or beef.
Conclusion: A Healthy & Flavorful Dinner Option
This Chipotle Shrimp Bowl is the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. Itβs quick, nutritious, and packed with flavor, making it a great go-to meal for busy weeknights.
π₯ Try it tonight and enjoy every spicy, creamy, and refreshing bite! π€π₯π