A Chicken Burrito Bowl is a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal loaded with seasoned chicken, rice, beans, fresh veggies, and toppings. This homemade version of a restaurant favorite is perfect for meal prep, customizable, and great for a quick weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with fresh and bold flavors
- Customizable with your favorite toppings and add-ins
- Perfect for meal prep and make-ahead lunches
- Naturally gluten-free and can be made low-carb
- A healthier, homemade alternative to takeout
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Olive oil
- Lime juice
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
For the Burrito Bowl Base:
- Cooked white or brown rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
- Black beans, drained and rinsed
- Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Cherry tomatoes, diced
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Avocado, sliced or mashed
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Toppings (Optional):
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- Guacamole
Directions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to overnight).
- Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
- Assemble the bowl: In a serving bowl, layer cooked rice, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and red onion. Add sliced chicken on top.
- Add toppings: Garnish with avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, and cilantro.
- Serve and enjoy: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken marinade.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for grilled tofu or sautéed mushrooms.
- Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Extra Protein: Add an extra scoop of beans or top with a fried egg.
- Grilled Version: Grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the chicken and rice separately for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken works well.
What’s the best rice for a burrito bowl?
White, brown, or cilantro-lime rice all work great.
Can I meal prep these bowls?
Yes! Store ingredients separately and assemble when ready to eat.
What’s a good dressing for this bowl?
Chipotle mayo, lime crema, or avocado dressing add extra flavor.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, just skip the cheese and sour cream or use dairy-free alternatives.
How do I make this bowl extra crunchy?
Add tortilla strips or crispy roasted chickpeas.
What beans work best?
Black beans or pinto beans are traditional, but you can use any kind.
Can I use a slow cooker for the chicken?
Yes, cook seasoned chicken in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours.
How do I make the rice more flavorful?
Cook it with chicken broth and add lime zest for extra taste.
What’s the best way to slice chicken for burrito bowls?
Let it rest after cooking, then slice it thinly against the grain.
Conclusion
A Chicken Burrito Bowl is a fresh, filling, and customizable meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving it fresh, this dish brings bold flavors and nutritious ingredients to your table. Try it today for a delicious, homemade burrito bowl!
Print
Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Description
This chicken burrito bowl is a healthy, flavorful meal packed with juicy chicken, rice, beans, and fresh toppings. Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Bowl Base:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup salsa or pico de gallo
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
-
Cook the Chicken:
- In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice or dice.
-
Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide rice, black beans, and corn into serving bowls.
- Top with cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, cheese, and cilantro.
-
Serve & Enjoy:
- Add sour cream, salsa, and lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- Make it spicy by adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick version.
- Meal prep! Store ingredients separately and assemble before serving.