If you’ve ever craved a chicken burrito bowl as fresh and flavorful as your favorite fast-casual spot, this is your sign! With juicy marinated chicken, fluffy cilantro-lime rice, and colorful toppings, this bowl is a one-stop shop for satisfying lunches or easy dinners.
Chicken Burrito Bowl
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce finely chopped + 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Cilantro-Lime Rice (Chicken Burrito Bowl in Rice Cooker):
- 1 cup long-grain white rice rinsed
- 1¾ cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- Pinch of salt
Toppings (Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Inspired):
- 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado sliced
- ½ cup diced red onion
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Optional: Shredded cheese Greek yogurt/sour cream, salsa
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk lime juice, oil, chipotle pepper + adobo sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and smoked paprika. Add chicken, toss to coat, and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let it rest before slicing.
- Make the Rice (Try in a Rice Cooker for Easy Chicken Burrito Bowl in Rice Cooker): On the stovetop, bring water (or broth) and a pinch of salt to a boil. Add rinsed rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork, stir in lime juice, zest, and cilantro. (For an olena real food instant pot chicken burrito bowl method, use the Instant Pot for rice, then top with chicken!)
- Assemble the Burrito Bowl: Spoon rice into each bowl. Top with sliced chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and any additional toppings. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Notes
- For a low-carb version, swap regular rice with cauliflower rice.
- To mimic a true chipotle chicken burrito bowl, consider adding fajita-style peppers and onions.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days, perfect for meal prep.
How to Serve Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl
Serve these bowls warm. Set up a topping bar with all the fixings—extra lime wedges, salsa, cheese, and yogurt/sour cream. Everyone can build their own dream chicken burrito bowl! For a crowd, consider cooking a big batch of rice in a rice cooker for a fuss-free chicken burrito bowl in rice cooker approach.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile & Customizable: Adjust spice levels, add or skip toppings, or even try the olena real food instant pot chicken burrito bowl method for convenience.
- Protein-Packed: Chicken and beans team up for a satisfying, energizing meal.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for busy weekdays—prep a few bowls for work or school lunches.
- Fresh & Flavorful: Bright lime, aromatic cilantro, and smoky chipotle come together for an irresistible flavor explosion.
Tips & Variations for the Best Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Use Leftovers: Got leftover rotisserie chicken? Shred it and toss it with the chipotle marinade for a quick shortcut.
- Try Another Grain: Brown rice, quinoa, or farro all work beautifully for a hearty twist.
- Make It Instant Pot-Style: For an olena real food instant pot chicken burrito bowl, cook rice and chicken in the Instant Pot, then add toppings after.
- Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms will bulk up your bowl with extra nutrients and flavor.
Craving More Mexican-Inspired Recipes?
If this Chicken Burrito Bowl recipe satisfies your cravings, you’re in for a flavorful journey! Check out these bold and easy-to-make recipes that are sure to add some extra zest to your weekly menu.
Easy Chicken Fajita Recipe (30-Minute Meal)
Pressed for time? This chicken fajita recipe is a lifesaver! Juicy marinated chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and onions come together in just 30 minutes. Serve it with warm tortillas or over a bed of rice for a customizable, crowd-pleasing meal.
One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe
Ready to shake things up? This one-pot chicken fajita pasta takes your favorite Tex-Mex flavors and turns them into a creamy, comforting pasta dish. Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make this perfect for busy weeknights.
Taco Casserole Recipe
Comfort food meets Mexican flair in this taco casserole! Layers of seasoned beef, crunchy tortilla chips, and melty cheese make every bite a delight. Feeling creative? Try swapping the chips for tater tots to create a taco tater tot casserole that’s just as irresistible.
Try these recipes for even more delicious inspiration! Your taste buds will thank you!
Did you make this recipe?
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