This Chicken Burrito Bowl is a tasty mix of grilled chicken, rice, and fresh veggies. Topped with cheese and a zesty sauce, it’s a fun meal that you can customize just the way you like it!
Building this bowl feels like a mini project, and trust me, it’s worth it! I love adding extra guacamole—who can resist that creamy goodness? 🥑
Making this dish is so easy! Just layer your favorite ingredients in a bowl, and it’s ready to enjoy. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling and slicing. If you need a quicker option, rotisserie chicken works great, too. Just shred it and pile it on your bowl!
Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika gives your chicken that fantastic flavor. You can swap these for taco seasoning if you want it simpler. It’ll still taste delicious!
Rice: White rice is traditional, but you can use brown rice for extra fiber or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. Quinoa is also a great substitute, providing a nutty flavor.
Beans: Black beans are a classic choice, but you can use pinto beans or kidney beans instead. They add protein and fiber. If you’re short on beans, just add more corn or veggies!
Cheese: The Mexican blend is flavorful, but feel free to use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even vegan cheese if you’re keeping it dairy-free. Just pick what you love!
How Do I Get My Chicken Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken can seem tricky, but with a few simple tips, you’ll nail it every time! Start by seasoning evenly, so every bite has flavor.
- Heat the pan until it’s hot before adding the chicken. This helps it sear nicely.
- Cook on medium-high heat for even cooking. The goal is to get a nice golden color and seal in juices.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This lets the juices redistribute, keeping it juicy when you slice it.
- Don’t overcook! Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer if you have one!
How to Make a Chicken Burrito Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup pico de gallo or fresh salsa
- 1/2 cup guacamole
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese or cheddar
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Salsa or hot sauce, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Burrito Bowl can be prepared in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the chicken and mixing the spices, and then about 15-20 minutes to cook the chicken and assemble the bowl. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by mixing the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This will be your spice mix to add flavor to your chicken!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil. Make sure to coat each side well. Then sprinkle the spice mix evenly on both sides of the chicken. This will give it a delicious kick!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the seasoned chicken in the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is fully cooked. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear!
4. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, slice the chicken into strips.
5. Assemble the Bowl:
Grab your serving bowls and start with a base of 1/2 cup of cooked rice. Then arrange the sliced chicken on top of the rice. Around the chicken, section out the black beans, corn, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Make it colorful!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves on top and add a spoonful of salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick. Your Chicken Burrito Bowl is all set to be enjoyed!
7. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and dig into your tasty creation. Enjoy every bite of your delicious Chicken Burrito Bowl!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken, just shred or slice it and add it directly to your bowl. It saves time and still tastes great!
Can I Substitute the Rice?
Yes! You can use brown rice for a healthier option or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Quinoa is also a great substitute if you want a nutty flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently on the stove or in the microwave, being careful not to overheat the chicken.
What Else Can I Add to My Burrito Bowl?
The possibilities are endless! Add toppings like sliced jalapeños, roasted bell peppers, avocado, or even a sprinkle of lime juice for added flavor. Customize it to your taste!