Prepare a flavorful and simple Chicken Burrito Bowl that mimics your favorite takeout. This recipe uses fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or healthy meal prep.
Author:sarahmiller
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Tex Mex
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup water or chicken broth
2 cups cooked cilantro lime rice (see notes)
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained
1 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
1 avocado, sliced or diced
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese (optional)
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Add the water or broth to the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Shred the chicken slightly with two forks if desired.
Prepare the rice: If you do not have pre-made cilantro lime rice, cook 1 cup of white or brown rice according to package directions. Once cooked, stir in the juice of 1 lime and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro.
Assemble the bowls: Divide the cilantro lime rice among four bowls. Top the rice evenly with the seasoned chicken, black beans, and corn.
Add toppings: Place salsa and sliced avocado on top of each bowl. Sprinkle with cheese, if using, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Serve immediately or portion into containers for meal prep.
Notes
To make quick cilantro lime rice, cook 1 cup of long-grain white rice. Once finished, fluff with a fork and stir in the juice of 1 lime and 1/4 cup of fresh chopped cilantro.
For an easy, high protein boost, increase the amount of black beans or add grilled steak strips.
To make this a low carb burrito bowl, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or extra lettuce.
This recipe is excellent for meal prepping. Store the cooked components separately from the fresh toppings (like avocado and salsa) to maintain texture for up to four days in the refrigerator.