Chicken Burrito Bowls
Chicken Burrito Bowls are a colorful, tasty meal packed with juicy grilled chicken, fluffy rice, black beans, fresh corn, and a sprinkle of cheese. Every bite mixes bold flavors and…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Chicken Burrito Bowls are a colorful, tasty meal packed with juicy grilled chicken, fluffy rice, black beans, fresh corn, and a sprinkle of cheese. Every bite mixes bold flavors and different textures, making it a satisfying and fun dish to eat. It feels like a little fiesta in a bowl!
I love making these bowls because they’re super easy to customize. I usually add a dollop of salsa or some avocado slices to make it extra fresh and creamy. Sometimes I throw in a squeeze of lime and a handful of chopped cilantro to brighten everything up. It’s one of those meals that everyone can tailor to their taste.
Whenever I serve Chicken Burrito Bowls, I like to set out all the toppings so people can build their own. It’s perfect for casual dinners or when friends come over. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good the next day, which makes this one of my go-to meals for busy weeks.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using chicken breasts ensures lean protein with mild flavor. If you want more juiciness, try chicken thighs—they stay tender.
Spices: Chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic, and onion powders add warmth and depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine, but the smoky note adds a nice touch.
Brown Rice: Brown rice gives a nutty flavor and chewy texture. Feel free to swap for white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
Black Beans & Corn: These add color, texture, and fiber. Canned works well to save time, but fresh or frozen corn brings a sweeter bite.
Greens: Kale adds a bit of bitterness and chew, while lettuce keeps things light and crisp. Choose your favorite or mix both.
Guacamole: Mashed avocado with lime juice is creamy and fresh. No avocado? Try mashed peas or a simple guacamole made with green peas for a twist.
Cilantro Lime Yogurt Sauce: This bright, tangy sauce balances the spices. Greek yogurt can be replaced with sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan twist.
How Can I Cook Chicken Strips Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking the chicken well is key to a tasty bowl. Here’s how to get juicy, browned strips:
- Pat chicken dry so it browns better.
- Season with the spice mix thoroughly.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat before adding chicken.
- Cook chicken strips in one layer without crowding—this helps them brown.
- Cook each side for 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden.
- Let chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to keep juices inside.
These steps help you avoid dry or undercooked chicken and bring out great flavor every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking chicken evenly and getting a nice sear.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need these to mix spices, guacamole, and yogurt sauce separately.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – essential for chopping veggies and slicing chicken cleanly.
- Spoon or spatula – helps stir and turn chicken without scratching your pan.
- Measuring spoons – to get your spice amounts just right for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to change up your protein while keeping it light.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and a mild spicy kick.
- Use cheddar or pepper jack cheese to melt on top for a creamier, richer bowl.
- Toss in some roasted sweet potatoes for sweetness and extra texture.
How to Make Chicken Burrito Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned or frozen)
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup kale or lettuce, chopped
- 1 avocado, mashed for guacamole
- Juice of 1 lime (for guacamole)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Cilantro Lime Yogurt Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook the chicken and sauces, plus some time to assemble the bowls. Overall, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 25-30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mix all over the sliced chicken strips, making sure each piece is nicely coated.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are fully cooked and nicely browned. When done, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Cilantro Lime Yogurt Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Stir well and taste—adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Prepare the Guacamole:
Mash the avocado with lime juice and a pinch of salt in a bowl. If you like, add finely chopped onions or tomatoes for extra flavor. Mix gently and set aside.
5. Assemble the Burrito Bowls:
Start by evenly spreading the cooked brown rice at the bottom of each bowl. Around the edges, arrange black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chopped kale or lettuce, and red onion in separate sections.
6. Add Chicken and Toppings:
Place the cooked chicken strips in the center of each bowl. Add a generous scoop of guacamole on the side. Drizzle the cilantro lime yogurt sauce over the chicken and veggies.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro. Serve your Chicken Burrito Bowls immediately, and enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick thaw method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging in cold water for about an hour.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Swap the chicken for grilled tofu, tempeh, or sautéed mushrooms. You can season and cook them the same way as the chicken for similar flavor and texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the guacamole separate if possible to prevent browning. Reheat the chicken and rice gently on the stove or microwave.
Can I Use Plain Yogurt Instead of Greek Yogurt for the Sauce?
Yes, you can use plain yogurt, but it might be a bit thinner and less creamy. If needed, strain plain yogurt in a cheesecloth for 1-2 hours to thicken it before using.