Who doesn’t love a burrito, but without the mess?
Enter the burrito bowl—a delicious, customizable, and healthier twist on the classic!
Packed with all your favorite flavors, it’s perfect for meal prep, quick dinners, or satisfying cravings without the tortilla.
Quick and Easy Burrito Bowl
This Chicken Burrito Bowl is a savory dish featuring marinated chicken, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, corn, fresh pico de gallo, avocado, and topped with sour cream. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, bringing the essence of a classic burrito to a bowl.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine diced chicken, chili powder, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Prepare the Rice: If not already cooked, prepare rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, mix in chopped cilantro and lime juice.
- Assemble the Bowl: In a bowl, layer the cilantro-lime rice, followed by black beans, corn, cooked chicken, pico de gallo, and sliced avocado.
- Add Toppings: Finish with a dollop of sour cream and garnish with additional cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Calories: 550kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
Imagine a vibrant bowl filled with seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and creamy toppings. It’s a delightful way to enjoy all your favorite burrito ingredients, minus the tortilla. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Vibrant Ingredients for a Wholesome Meal
This chicken burrito bowl bursts with color and freshness, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. The base features fluffy cilantro-lime rice, providing a zesty foundation that pairs beautifully with the other components.
Each element is carefully chosen, from the tender, seasoned chicken to the lively pico de gallo. The presence of black beans and corn adds both texture and nutritional value, creating a well-rounded dish that’s satisfying and nutritious.
Seasoning the Chicken to Perfection
Marinating the chicken is a key step that elevates the flavors of this dish. Incorporating spices like chili powder and cumin, along with lime juice, infuses the meat with a delightful kick.
Cooking the chicken until it’s golden brown not only enhances its flavor but also adds an appealing visual contrast to the vibrant ingredients that follow. The result is tender pieces of chicken that complement the other fresh components in the bowl.
Layering for Flavor and Presentation
Assembling the bowl is an art in itself. Start with a generous scoop of cilantro-lime rice, followed by a hearty layer of black beans and corn. Each layer contributes to the overall flavor profile and keeps the dish interesting with a variety of textures.
Add the marinated chicken on top, followed by a colorful scoop of pico de gallo. Slices of creamy avocado placed strategically add richness, ensuring each bite is a delightful experience.
Toppings That Make a Difference
No burrito bowl is complete without toppings that add a finishing touch. A dollop of sour cream brings creaminess, while fresh cilantro enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic freshness.
Feel free to customize further with other toppings such as jalapeños or cheese, depending on personal preferences. These small additions can make the bowl even more inviting.
A Versatile Meal for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual lunch with friends, this chicken burrito bowl is a versatile option that fits various occasions. Its adaptability allows for easy modifications to cater to different tastes or dietary restrictions.
With its vibrant ingredients and satisfying flavors, this meal is sure to please a crowd. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy all the classic burrito flavors without the fuss of tortillas, making it a go-to recipe for many.
Nutritional Benefits in Every Bite
This dish not only pleases the palate but also provides substantial nutritional benefits. Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans, it supports a balanced diet.
With approximately 550 calories per serving, it offers a satisfying meal option while still being mindful of health. The inclusion of fresh ingredients like avocado and pico de gallo adds essential vitamins and minerals.
FAQ
What is a burrito bowl?
A burrito bowl is essentially a deconstructed burrito served in a bowl without the tortilla. It typically includes ingredients like rice, beans, protein (like chicken or beef), fresh veggies, and your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, and cheese.
Are burrito bowls healthy?
Yes, they can be! By using whole grains like brown rice, lean proteins, and plenty of veggies, burrito bowls are a nutrient-dense, balanced meal. You can also adjust portion sizes or swap ingredients to meet dietary needs like low-carb or dairy-free.
Can I meal prep burrito bowls?
Absolutely! Prepare the components—like cooked rice, protein, and chopped veggies—ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers. Assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat for a fresh, delicious meal all week long!