Chicken burrito bowls offer a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy classic burrito flavors without the fuss of wrapping them up. This recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken with layers of hearty rice, beans, and fresh toppings, creating a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun dish for a family gathering, these bowls are sure to please everyone at your table. I often whip them up when I want something special yet easy – it’s a dish that never fails to impress.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to bring chicken burrito bowls into your kitchen repertoire. Firstly, they’re incredibly customizable, allowing everyone to create their perfect meal according to personal taste. Plus, it’s an effortless one-bowl meal, making cleanup as stress-free as possible. From busy weeknights to cozy family dinners, these bowls fit the bill. They’re also budget-friendly and packed with protein, making them a nutritious choice.
"I made these chicken burrito bowls for a weeknight dinner, and my kids devoured them! They couldn’t get enough of the cheese and avocado on top. Such a hit!" – A happy home cook
How this recipe comes together
Creating chicken burrito bowls is a straightforward process that lets you bring together all the flavors and textures that you love. You’ll start by cooking the seasoned chicken, then layering in the rice, beans, corn, and fresh veggies. It all comes together beautifully, resulting in vibrant and satisfying bowls that you can serve in under 30 minutes. Let’s walk through the essentials so you’re set for success.
What you’ll need
To prepare your delicious chicken burrito bowls, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (any variety you prefer)
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (you can use fresh or canned)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on personal preference. Want to go vegetarian? Replace the chicken with grilled bell peppers or mushrooms!
Directions to follow
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sprinkle the taco seasoning over it. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- In serving bowls, layer a generous portion of the cooked rice as your base.
- Top the rice with the seasoned chicken.
- Add layers of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and fresh avocado on top.
- Finish off with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream if you like.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side and garnish with chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Best ways to enjoy it
Chicken burrito bowls are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Present them in colorful bowls to highlight the vibrant ingredients. Serve alongside tortilla chips for a crunchy texture or pair with a fresh salad. For a fun twist, turn it into a burrito wrap by placing all the ingredients in a tortilla! Consider making a side of guacamole or a fresh corn salad to complement the meal.
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Chicken burrito bowls store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the ingredients in separate airtight containers to maintain freshness. You can also freeze the chicken and rice mixture for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave until warmed thoroughly. For best results, avoid reheating any fresh toppings, like avocado or cilantro, until you’re ready to enjoy.
Helpful cooking tips
- To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast.
- If you like a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of hot sauce to the bowls.
- A quick squeeze of lime juice can elevate the flavors, so don’t skip that step!
Creative twists
The beauty of chicken burrito bowls is their adaptability. Here are some creative variations to consider:
- Swap the protein: Try shredded beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegan option.
- Change up the grains: Quinoa or cauliflower rice are nutritious alternatives to white or brown rice.
- Experiment with toppings: Add black olives, jalapeños, or even pineapple for a fun twist.
Your questions answered
What is the prep and cook time?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for cooking, making it quick and efficient.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What can I use instead of taco seasoning?
If you’re out of taco seasoning, you can use a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a similar flavor profile.
Chicken burrito bowls are not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavors that come together effortlessly. By making this dish, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies every palate while keeping the preparation simple and stress-free. Enjoy!
PrintChicken Burrito Bowls
Delicious and customizable chicken burrito bowls packed with flavors and fresh toppings, perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Paleo
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (any variety)
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sprinkle the taco seasoning over it. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- In serving bowls, layer a generous portion of the cooked rice as your base.
- Top the rice with the seasoned chicken.
- Add layers of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and fresh avocado on top.
- Finish off with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream if you like.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side and garnish with chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Notes
Consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. You can also swap out ingredients based on personal preference.