This Chicken Burrito Bowl is a tasty and hearty meal made with seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings. It’s like a party in a bowl!
I love to pile on the beans, salsa, and avocado. It makes every bite feel special, and honestly, who doesn’t enjoy a bit of crunch from the veggies? 😄
Plus, it’s super easy to make—just cook the chicken, mix the ingredients, and you’re ready to enjoy a filling and delicious dish in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I recommend using white rice for a classic base, but you can switch it up with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier option. Each brings a unique texture to your bowl!
Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts are perfect, but you could use thighs for more flavor. Shredded rotisserie chicken is also a great time-saver if you’re looking to cut down on prep!
Spices: The chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika really make the chicken pop. If you’re out of any, try using taco seasoning instead. It’s convenient and usually has a good mix of flavors.
Beans: Black beans add protein and fiber, but feel free to substitute with pinto beans or chickpeas if you prefer. They all taste great in a burrito bowl!
Avocado: Fresh avocado brings creaminess. If you can’t get avocados, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add a nice similar texture.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken correctly is key to a tasty burrito bowl. Here’s how to do it right without drying it out!
- Preheat your skillet for even cooking. Make sure it’s hot before adding the chicken.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side. Flip only once for even browning.
- Always check for doneness by making sure there’s no pink inside and juices run clear.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This keeps the juices in!
How to Make a Delicious Chicken Burrito Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo, plus extra for serving
- Optional: hot sauce or additional salsa for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Burrito Bowl takes about 30 minutes total: 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking and assembling. It’s quick, fun, and perfect for a hearty meal! You’ll enjoy the flavors and the ease of making this dish at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating a skillet over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This spice mix will give your chicken an amazing flavor!
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, take the chicken breasts and rub them with olive oil. Once that’s done, evenly coat the chicken with the spice mixture you just made. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet. Cook it for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remember, the juices should run clear!
4. Slice and Rest:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy. After resting, slice the chicken into strips.
5. Assemble the Bowl:
Now it’s time to assemble your burrito bowl! In each serving bowl, start by adding a layer of cooked white rice as a base.
6. Add the Toppings:
On top of the rice, arrange the sliced chicken, black beans, avocado, shredded cheese, diced red onions, chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce, and a generous scoop of salsa. The colors and textures will make your bowl look amazing!
7. Finish It Off:
If you like a bit of heat, drizzle some hot sauce or extra salsa on top. It adds a great kick!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Chicken Burrito Bowl is ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately and dig into this flavorful dish. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes! Brown rice is a nutritious alternative and adds a nice chewy texture to your burrito bowl. Just keep in mind that it will take longer to cook—about 40-45 minutes, so plan accordingly!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the rice and chicken in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of water to keep it moist if needed!
Can I Make This Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, or use tofu for protein. Just make sure to keep the spices to add that delicious flavor!
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
The sky’s the limit! Try adding corn, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, lime juice, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. Customize it with your favorite toppings!