Chicken Burrito Bowls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Burrito Bowls are not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize the ingredients based on your dietary preferences and tastes, making them the perfect meal for anyone. The combination of marinated, grilled chicken with a variety of fresh toppings like guacamole, salsa, and sour cream creates a dish that’s both satisfying and balanced. Whether you want to make it low-carb, keto, or add a little extra flavor with a variety of toppings, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping!

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups cooked cauliflower rice (or regular rice)

• 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)

• 1/4 cup guacamole (optional)

• Salsa, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade and let them sit for 10-15 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for extra flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

3. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cauliflower rice (or regular rice) into 4 bowls. Top each with a handful of chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, corn, and cilantro.

4. Add Chicken and Toppings: Place the sliced chicken on top of the veggies, then add your choice of toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.

5. Serve: Enjoy immediately, or store in airtight containers for meal prep.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. The preparation time is approximately 10-15 minutes, and the cooking time is about 15-20 minutes for the chicken.

Variations

• Rice Alternatives: You can use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or regular rice for a more traditional burrito bowl.

• Vegan Version: Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu, tempeh, or beans for a vegan version.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or black beans for added flavor and texture.

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken burrito bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken can also be stored separately to maintain its freshness.

• Reheating: Reheat the bowls in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat. If the rice or veggies look dry, add a splash of water to keep them moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe. They’re juicy and flavorful, but make sure to adjust the cooking time since thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

2. Can I make the bowls ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bowls are great for meal prep. Assemble them without the toppings like sour cream or guacamole, and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add the toppings right before serving.

3. Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, white rice, or even quinoa instead of cauliflower rice. Just be mindful of the carb content if you’re following a low-carb diet.

4. Can I add beans to the bowl?

Yes! Black beans or pinto beans make a great addition to these bowls. If you’re going for a vegetarian version, beans would be a great source of protein.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

For extra heat, add diced jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or sprinkle chili flakes on top of your bowl.

6. How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

Marinating the chicken in the spice mixture for 30 minutes to 2 hours will give it a more intense flavor. You can also add more garlic, lime zest, or even a bit of honey to the marinade.

7. Can I use a store-bought dressing for the bowl?

Yes! A simple cilantro lime dressing or even a vinaigrette would complement the ingredients nicely if you want to save time.

8. Can I make the chicken burrito bowls without rice?

Yes, you can skip the rice entirely or substitute with a bed of mixed greens or lettuce for a low-carb option.

9. Can I freeze the chicken for meal prep?

Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before assembling your burrito bowls.

10. Can I add cheese to the chicken burrito bowls?

Yes, shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend are great additions to these bowls. Just sprinkle the cheese on top before serving.

Conclusion

Chicken Burrito Bowls are a fun, customizable, and delicious way to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal. With juicy marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and all your favorite toppings, these bowls are packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re prepping for the week ahead or looking for a quick dinner option, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Easy to make, meal prep-friendly, and fully customizable, Chicken Burrito Bowls will quickly become a go-to dish for your meal planning!