Chicken Burrito Bowl
The Chicken Burrito Bowl is a delicious and healthy meal that brings the flavors of Mexican cuisine right to your kitchen. It’s a great option for lunch or dinner, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and vibrant toppings, you can enjoy all the classic burrito flavors in a convenient bowl form.
Why Make This Recipe
Making a Chicken Burrito Bowl at home is simple and rewarding. It allows you to control the ingredients and avoid the preservatives and excess calories often found in takeout. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe—you can adjust the toppings to your liking, making it perfect for a family dinner or a meal prep option. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor!
How to Make Chicken Burrito Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh (about 4-6 oz)
- 1/2 bell pepper (any color, e.g., red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 1/4 red onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 cup cooked white or brown rice (or cauliflower rice)
- 1/2 large tomato, diced
- 1/4 small red onion, finely diced (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar)
- 2-3 tbsp sour cream
- Optional: 1/4 cup black beans, 1/4 cup corn, jalapeños, hot sauce
Directions:
Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into strips. Toss with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside. Cook bell pepper and red onion for 5-8 minutes until tender. Add chicken back and squeeze lime juice over. Set aside.
Cook the Rice: Prepare the rice according to package instructions.
Prepare the Toppings: For Pico de Gallo, combine tomato, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. For Guacamole, mash the avocado with lime juice and salt. Shred lettuce and cheese if necessary.
Assemble the Bowl: Place cooked rice in a bowl, arrange chicken and vegetables on one side.
How to Serve Chicken Burrito Bowl
Serve your Chicken Burrito Bowl warm. You can add all your favorite toppings such as pico de gallo, guacamole, shredded cheese, and sour cream. It’s colorful, appetizing, and ready to be enjoyed!
How to Store Chicken Burrito Bowl
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have separate components, such as the rice and chicken, store them in separate containers to maintain freshness.
Tips to Make Chicken Burrito Bowl
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can cook the chicken and rice ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
- Mix it Up: Try different vegetables like zucchini or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
- Add Spice: If you like it spicy, add more cayenne pepper or some jalapeños.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version of the Chicken Burrito Bowl by replacing the chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables. This allows you to enjoy the same great flavors without the meat!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw it before cooking.
Q2: What can I substitute for rice?
You can use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
Q3: How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper, use a spicy salsa, or top your bowl with fresh jalapeños for extra heat!
Enjoy making and sharing your Chicken Burrito Bowl! It’s a tasty and fun way to bring the flavors of Mexico to your table.
