Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl

A warm, smoky aroma fills the kitchen as succulent, marinated chicken sizzles on the grill, creating a perfect topping for a colorful mix of rice, beans, and fresh vegetables. The Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl is a vibrant dish that takes just under an hour to prepare and cook. This recipe works beautifully because it balances bold flavors with fresh ingredients, making it a delightful meal any day of the week.

This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying and nutritious meal. It’s great for weeknight dinners and also makes for delicious leftovers. You can prepare the marinade in advance and store it for up to two days for added convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The chicken is marinated to perfection, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
• It’s a wholesome and filling meal, combining protein, grains, and fresh veggies.
• Versatile ingredients make it customizable to your taste preferences.
• The dish is quick to assemble and can be served in less than 30 minutes.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create a mouth-watering burrito bowl.

For the Marinade

• 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1-2 tablespoons chili powder
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ⅓ cup lime juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ cup water

For the Bowl

• 3 cups cooked white or brown rice or quinoa
• 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo
• 1 avocado, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup light sour cream
• 1/2 cup shredded romaine lettuce
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro leaves
• The juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Consider using a different protein like shrimp or tofu for variety.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use lemon juice instead of lime juice.
• Quinoa can replace rice for a gluten-free option.
• Greek yogurt can substitute for sour cream.
• Any beans can be used instead of black beans.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious burrito bowl.

Prepare the Marinade

Combine lime juice, olive oil, and water in a large resealable bag. Add garlic, sugar, salt, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, and chili powder. Seal and shake to combine.

Marinate the Chicken

Add chicken to the marinade, seal again, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours to infuse flavors.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Chop and Prepare the Rice

Once done, let the chicken cool for a few minutes before chopping it into bite-sized pieces. Meanwhile, place the cooked rice or quinoa in a large bowl, then add cilantro, lime juice, and salt and pepper to taste; toss to coat evenly.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cilantro rice between 4 bowls. Top each bowl with chicken, black beans, salsa, avocado, sour cream, and shredded lettuce. Serve immediately!

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, best eaten fresh for taste.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 1-2 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Let the chicken marinate longer for deeper flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
• Customize toppings to include your favorites like cheese or jalapeños.
• Refresh the bowl with extra lime juice just before serving for brightness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete meal.
• Serve it as a hearty lunch option for meal prep.
• Complement with a refreshing side salad for added crunch.