Imagine all the best flavors of your favorite Mexican takeout, but healthier and entirely customizable right in your own kitchen. That’s exactly what you’ll find with Chicken Burrito Bowls: vibrant, hearty, and absolutely bursting with color and taste. Each spoonful brings together juicy, spiced chicken, tender rice, zesty lime, creamy avocado, and a rainbow of grilled veggies, making it a meal that excites every sense. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or serving friends a weeknight feast, these bowls are endlessly versatile and just plain fun to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chicken Burrito Bowls is how each simple ingredient plays a special role—bringing flavor, crunch, or creaminess to the party. Stick to the essentials below for knockout results every time, then mix and match to suit your cravings.
- Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken for lean protein in every bite that cooks up juicy and golden in just minutes.
- Olive oil: A quick toss in oil locks in moisture and helps the spices coat each piece of chicken.
- Chili powder: This brings the signature Mexican taste and subtle heat that’s absolutely irresistible.
- Cumin: Ground cumin imparts earthy warmth and depth, blending seamlessly with the other spices.
- Smoked paprika: Paprika with a hint of smokiness turns basic chicken into something exciting.
- Garlic powder: Powdered garlic is a simple way to infuse extra flavor without peeling or chopping.
- Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together—don’t skip it!
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that rounds out the spice blend.
- Rice: Choose white, brown, or cilantro-lime for a hearty, fluffy base that soaks up every topping.
- Black beans: Canned beans keep things quick and easy, adding fiber, protein, and a classic Tex-Mex touch.
- Corn kernels: Fresh, canned, or frozen corn gives the bowls a pop of sweetness and sunny color.
- Cherry tomatoes: Juicy halved tomatoes provide a burst of freshness that balances the spices.
- Avocado: Sliced or diced, avocado brings creaminess and healthy fats to each bowl.
- Red onion: A little chopped red onion gives crunch and a hint of tangy bite.
- Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brightens the whole dish with a fresh herbal note.
- Lime juice: A squeeze of lime just before serving lifts all the flavors beautifully.
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Optional, but a little melty cheese never hurts.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: This optional finishing dollop adds a cool, tangy touch.
How to Make Chicken Burrito Bowls
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Rice
Your rice is the foundation of the Chicken Burrito Bowls, so start by cooking it according to the package directions. Opt for cilantro-lime rice for a special twist, or keep it simple with white or brown rice. While it simmers, you have plenty of time to prep your other ingredients.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes for even cooking and maximum flavor. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend coats every piece, ensuring big savory bites in every bowl.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and let it sizzle, turning occasionally. In about 6 to 8 minutes, your chicken should be cooked through and enticingly golden around the edges. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prep the Toppings
While the chicken cools for a moment, quickly rinse and drain your black beans, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice that creamy avocado, and chop your red onion and cilantro. Having everything ready makes assembly fun and effortless—even great for a DIY dinner bar setup if you’re feeling festive.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Now for the fun part! Divide the cooked rice between four bowls. Top each with a generous portion of hot chicken, black beans, sweet corn, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and, if you like, a sprinkling of shredded cheese. Shower with fresh chopped cilantro and a good squeeze of lime. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top is the perfect creamy finish.
How to Serve Chicken Burrito Bowls
Garnishes
The right garnishes take Chicken Burrito Bowls from tasty to totally crave-worthy. Don’t skip the bright cilantro, juicy lime, or sliced avocado for that extra wow. Feel free to add jalapeño slices, a dusting of chili flakes, or even a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
Side Dishes
While these bowls are a full meal on their own, you can’t go wrong with some warm tortilla chips or a fresh side salad. Try a crisp cabbage slaw or even grilled bell peppers for extra veggies and crunch. If you’re hosting, a pitcher of homemade agua fresca is the perfect companion.
Creative Ways to Present
Set up a build-your-own Chicken Burrito Bowls bar for family or guests—just lay out the rice, chicken, and all your toppings in separate bowls so everyone can create their dream combo. For lunchboxes, layer the ingredients in mason jars for easy grab-and-go meals that look as great as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chicken Burrito Bowls are practically made for meal prep! Store the rice, chicken, and toppings in separate containers in the fridge so everything stays fresh and vibrant. They’ll keep well for up to 4 days, making for speedy lunches or dinners all week long.
Freezing
If you want to freeze components for even longer storage, stick to the chicken and rice. Let them cool completely and freeze separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge, then add your fresh toppings.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave the rice and chicken (covered, with a splash of water if needed) until heated through. Then assemble your bowl with fresh toppings like avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro for that just-made flavor. Avoid reheating avocado or sour cream—they’re best added after warming everything else.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer even more flavor and stay juicy during cooking. Just trim off excess fat and cook a couple minutes longer to ensure they’re done.
What are some good low-carb alternatives for the rice?
For a low-carb version of Chicken Burrito Bowls, try using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. It absorbs flavors beautifully and keeps things light without sacrificing heartiness.
How spicy are these bowls?
As written, the spice blend gives a gentle warmth most people will enjoy. To crank up the heat, add cayenne pepper or fresh jalapeños. To keep it milder, simply reduce or omit the chili powder.
Are Chicken Burrito Bowls gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in these bowls are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to double-check your spice mixes and canned goods to avoid hidden sources of gluten.
Can I make these vegetarian or vegan?
Definitely! Skip the chicken and try seasoned tofu, grilled veggies, or a hearty helping of black beans and corn as your main protein. Opt for plant-based cheese and dairy-free yogurt for a vegan finish.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so delightful about building your own Chicken Burrito Bowls from scratch—you can make every bowl personal, overflowing with the flavors you love. Give this recipe a spot in your weekly rotation, then play with toppings and extras to make it your own. I can’t wait for you to dig in and discover just how easy (and delicious) homemade burrito bowls can be!
Print
Chicken Burrito Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Chicken Burrito Bowls are a delicious and nutritious meal option that is perfect for lunch or dinner. Packed with flavor and customizable to suit your taste, these bowls are a wholesome and satisfying choice.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the bowls:
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced or diced
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the rice: According to package directions, prepare the rice. While the rice is cooking, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Season and cook the chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the seasoned chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the bowls: Divide the cooked rice among four bowls. Top with cooked chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cheese if desired. Sprinkle with cilantro, lime juice, and add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Notes
- You can prep all ingredients in advance for an easy grab-and-go lunch.
- Feel free to customize with sautéed peppers, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
- For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
