My Quick And Delicious Chipotle Prawn Bowl Recipe

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If you’re looking for a meal that’s packed with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a mix of textures, this chipotle prawn bowl is the perfect recipe. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, yet it looks and tastes like something you’d order at your favorite restaurant.

What I love most about this recipe is how well the smoky and spicy notes of the fajita seasoning complement the sweetness of the prawns and the freshness of the tomatoes and avocado. The creamy feta cheese ties everything together, while the kidney beans and rice add hearty substance to the dish to keep you full for a while.

This bowl isn’t just delicious; it’s also a balanced meal full of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs. It’s a fantastic dish to enjoy on a quiet evening or to serve to friends for an impressive yet low-effort meal.

Tips for Making the Best Chipotle Prawn Bowl

• Don’t overcook the prawns: They cook quickly, so add them to the pan last and remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque. That’s especially important if, like me, you get your prawns already cooked (it’s often the case for frozen prawns.).
• Rinse the kidney beans: This removes any excess salt or starch from the canning liquid and enhances their flavor.
• Use fresh tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes will give the dish a juicier and more vibrant flavor compared to canned tomatoes.
• Season to taste: Adjust the amount of fajita seasoning based on your spice tolerance. Add a squeeze of lime for extra zest if desired.
• Serve now or make it in advance: This dish tastes delicious right away but can also be kept in the fridge for 24h so you can make it ahead of time for a work lunch, for example!

Ingredients

• 1 can (400g) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 100g (1/2 cup) dry rice
• 200g (7 oz) peeled king prawns
• 8 fresh tomatoes, diced
• 1 pack (30g) fajita spices
• Greek feta cheese (as much as you like)
• 1 avocado

Alternative Ingredients

• Protein: Replace prawns with diced chicken breast or tofu for a different protein option.
• Beans: Swap red kidney beans for black beans or chickpeas for a variation in texture and flavor.
• Rice: Use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or brown rice for a healthier twist.
• Cheese: Substitute feta with cotija cheese for a more authentic Mexican flavor.
• Tomatoes: If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned diced tomatoes can be used, though the flavor won’t be as fresh.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions, usually in a ratio of 1 part rice to 2 parts water.

Bring the water to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Base
Wash and dice the fresh tomatoes into medium-sized chunks. Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the tomatoes. Allow them to cook for a few minutes until they begin to release their juices and soften.

Step 3: Add Kidney Beans and Prawns
Drain and rinse the red kidney beans thoroughly, then add them to the pan with the tomatoes. Stir well to combine. Add the peeled king prawns to the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Season with Fajita Spices
Sprinkle the fajita seasoning evenly over the prawn and bean mixture. Reduce the heat to low and mix well to coat everything in the spices. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the prawns are fully cooked and the beans are warmed through.

Step 5: Prepare the Avocado
While the mixture is cooking, cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and peel the skin. Dice one-quarter of the avocado per person into small cubes. Set aside for topping.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowl
To assemble, divide the cooked rice evenly among serving bowls. Top each bowl with the warm fajita prawn and bean mixture. Add the diced avocado on top and crumble as much feta cheese as you like over the dish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the bowls immediately while the mixture is still warm. For an extra kick, you can add a drizzle of hot sauce or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

This chipotle prawn bowl is a quick and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a go-to favorite!