Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl with Rice and Beans

The aroma of marinated chicken sizzling on the grill fills the air, causing the taste buds to tingle with anticipation. This Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl with Rice and Beans is a hearty, flavorful dish that can be prepared in about an hour. The combination of spices infuses the chicken with deep flavor, making it irresistibly delicious.

This recipe is perfect for families looking for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s an excellent choice for a weekend cookout or a weeknight dinner. You can easily prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for quick assembly later.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy grilled chicken thighs add a tender texture and rich flavor.
• Vibrant toppings like pico de gallo and guacamole elevate every bite.
• It’s fully customizable to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
• It’s a one-bowl meal, making clean-up quick and easy.

What You’ll Need

Gather everything you need to create this delicious burrito bowl.

For the Marinade

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp Kosher salt (Diamond Crystal)
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1.5 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 2.5 oz oil (I used avocado oil)
• 1 tsp lime juice (from 1 lime)

For the Bowl

• 4 cups cooked rice (whichever kind you prefer)
• 4 to 6 cooked chicken thighs
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup pico de gallo (can also use salsa or chopped tomatoes)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (use whatever type you prefer – Mexican blend, cotija, queso fresco, etc.)
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup guacamole (can also use plain avocado)
• chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Adjust the amount of rice and beans depending on serving size.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken thighs can be swapped for breasts.
• Use olive oil instead of avocado oil.
• Substitute black beans with pinto beans or chickpeas.
• Use pre-cooked rice for faster assembly.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful burrito bowl.

1. Mix the Marinade

Combine the spices, salt, and pepper into a small bowl, whisking to mix thoroughly. Set it aside, then pour the oil and lime juice into a large liquid measuring cup. Add the spices to the measuring cup and whisk until fully combined to make the marinade.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a gallon-sized sealable plastic bag or large flat dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken thighs, pressing out as much remaining air as possible before sealing the bag. Squeeze the bag to coat the thighs with the marinade. Place the bag flat in the fridge for 45 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. Prepare the Grill

Take the bag out of the fridge 15 minutes before grilling to allow the chicken to warm slightly. Preheat the grill to around 375 degrees F.

4. Grill the Chicken

Use grilling tongs to place each chicken thigh directly on the grill grates. Cook the thighs for 5 minutes on the first side. Then, using the tongs, flip each thigh and cook for another 3 minutes on the second side with the lid closed. Check the internal temperature, removing them from the grill once they reach 165F, which may require another 1 to 5 minutes.

5. Chop the Chicken

Once the chicken is done, place the thighs on a cutting board and let them cool for five minutes. Use a large sharp knife to chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

6. Assemble the Burrito Bowl

Take out four bowls and place 1 cup of rice into each. Next, add the equivalent of 1 to 1.5 chicken thighs of the diced chicken into each bowl. Follow with 1/4 cup canned black beans, 1/4 cup pico de gallo, 2 tbsp shredded cheese, and 1 to 2 tbsp guacamole. Add chopped fresh cilantro if desired, along with any additional toppings like sour cream, diced onion, chopped lettuce, or sliced jalapenos.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: No, it’s best fresh for flavor.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• For the juiciest chicken, don’t skip the marinating time.
• Ensure the grill is preheated for optimal searing.
• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
• Customize toppings to fit your preferences!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with corn salsa or tortilla chips for an extra crunch.
• Serve during family gatherings or meal prep days.
• Enjoy as a filling lunch option for work or school.