What’s in the Cantina Chicken Bowl at Taco Bell?

The Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl typically includes grilled marinated chicken , seasoned rice , black beans , roasted corn , shredded cheese , pico de gallo , creamy avocado ranch , and lettuce . It’s meant to offer a fresher, more “premium” alternative to other menu items.

Is the Cantina Chicken Bowl spicy?

Not by default. The Taco Bell version is mild , with just a little tang from the avocado ranch and pico de gallo . However, spice lovers can add hot sauce , jalapeños , or spicy chipotle crema to crank up the heat 🔥

Can I make a vegetarian Cantina Bowl?

Absolutely! Just remove the chicken and substitute with: Grilled tofu or tempeh Roasted sweet potatoes Extra beans and veggies Vegan cheese or guac

Is the Cantina Chicken Bowl gluten-free?

Yes, mostly . If you skip flour-based toppings (like flour tortilla strips or burritos), the Cantina Bowl can be gluten-free. The base ingredients— rice , beans , chicken , and veggies —are naturally gluten-free.

How many calories are in a Cantina Chicken Bowl?

Depending on size and toppings, calories range from 500 to 650 kcal at Taco Bell. Homemade versions can be adjusted lower by removing cheese or dressing, or higher with add-ons like queso or chips.

What sauces are used in a Cantina Chicken Bowl?

The most common sauces include: Avocado Ranch (creamy, mild, and tangy) Chipotle Crema (smoky and spicy) Optional: salsa verde , sour cream , hot sauce

What’s the difference between a burrito bowl and a cantina bowl?

While both include similar ingredients, the Cantina Bowl usually has a fresher, lighter presentation with extra toppings like corn , avocado sauce , and lettuce . Burrito bowls are often heavier with more cheese, sour cream, and meat.

Cantina Chicken Bowl Recipe: Fresh, Bold, and Easy to Make 🧡

Description

This Cantina Chicken Bowl is loaded with juicy grilled chicken, zesty cilantro-lime rice, black beans, and fresh toppings. Perfect for a flavorful and balanced lunch or dinner—and easy to meal prep!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime
For the Cilantro Lime Rice
1 cup cooked white or brown rice
Juice of 1/2 lime
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Pinch of salt

Toppings

1/2 cup black beans (canned, rinsed)
1/2 cup roasted corn
1/3 cup pico de gallo
1/4 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
2 tbsp avocado ranch or chipotle crema
Optional: tortilla strips, jalapeños, avocado slices, lime wedge

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Instructions

Marinate Chicken: Mix olive oil, spices, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken and marinate for 30 minutes.
Cook Chicken: Grill or pan-fry over medium-high heat until cooked through (6–8 minutes per side). Rest, then slice.
Make Rice: Stir lime juice, salt, and cilantro into warm cooked rice.
Heat Sides: Warm beans and corn in microwave or small pan.
Assemble Bowl: In each bowl, layer rice, chicken, beans, corn, pico, cheese, and sauce.
Garnish: Top with tortilla strips, avocado, jalapeños, and a lime wedge.

Notes

Double the marinade for meal prep batches.
Use Greek yogurt in the dressing for a lighter option.
Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilled or pan-fried
Cuisine: Tex-Mex / American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 540 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 880 mg
Fat: 21 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 44 g
Fiber: 6 g
Protein: 37 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg