This Chicken Burrito Bowl is a fun and tasty meal that brings all the good stuff together! With juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and fluffy rice, it’s like a fiesta in a bowl!
What’s great is you can customize it to your liking. I love adding extra salsa and cheese, because who wouldn’t want more cheese? 🧀 Dig in and enjoy a delicious, easy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer a lean source of protein. You can substitute with thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Rice: I use white rice for its fluffy texture, but brown rice or quinoa are good swaps for a healthier twist. You can also try cauliflower rice for a low-carb choice!
Black Beans: Canned black beans are practical. If you’re not a fan, try kidney beans or even lentils for a different texture and flavor.
Cheese: I love the combo of cheddar and Monterey Jack, but feel free to use pepper jack for a spicy kick or go dairy-free with plant-based cheese!
Guacamole: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade is fresher! If avocados are hard to find, a dollop of plain yogurt can offer creaminess instead.
How Do You Achieve Juicy, Flavorful Chicken?
The key to juicy chicken is seasoning and cooking it properly. Start by mixing your spices together and rubbing them onto the chicken evenly.
- Heat the skillet to medium-high before adding olive oil. This helps to sear the chicken’s exterior.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, but don’t rush! Listen for that sizzle; it means the chicken is cooking well.
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after cooking – this keeps the juices from running out when you slice it.
This technique ensures your chicken is tender and full of flavor, making your burrito bowl even better!
How to Make a Delicious Chicken Burrito Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup guacamole
- 1/3 cup sour cream mixed with chopped green onions (or plain sour cream)
- 1/3 cup fresh salsa (pico de gallo)
- Salsa Roja or your favorite hot sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total, including prep time and cooking. You’ll spend around 10 minutes marinating the chicken and 15-20 minutes cooking and assembling your delicious bowl. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Spice Up the Chicken:
Start by mixing the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this flavorful spice mix all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated for maximum taste.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a grill pan or a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice charred spots. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for about 5 minutes to keep it juicy.
3. Slice the Chicken:
After resting, slice the chicken into bite-sized strips or cubes. This makes it easy to eat and mix in with the other ingredients!
4. Assemble Your Bowl:
Start with a layer of cooked white rice at the bottom of your bowl. Around it, arrange the rinsed black beans, shredded lettuce, cheese, fresh cilantro, guacamole, and the sour cream mixture. This creates beautiful layers of color and flavor!
5. Add the Chicken and Salsa:
Place your sliced chicken in the center of the bowl. Top everything off with a generous scoop of fresh salsa (pico de gallo) for that fresh taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Don’t forget to serve with a side of salsa roja or your favorite hot sauce for a little kick! You can mix all the ingredients together in the bowl or enjoy them in layers, however you prefer.
Enjoy your colorful, flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowl! It’s packed with delicious and fresh ingredients that make for a fun and satisfying meal. 🍽️
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, steak, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.
Can I Prepare This Bowl in Advance?
Yes! You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the chicken and rice, and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just assemble the bowl when you’re ready to eat!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and rice gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, then reassemble your burrito bowl with fresh toppings.
What Are Some Tasty Toppings I Can Add?
Feel free to get creative! Avocado slices, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, corn, or even some crispy tortilla strips make great additions. You can also switch out the cheese for a vegan alternative if desired!
