Chicken Burrito Bowls
Chicken Burrito Bowls are a colorful and tasty dinner that’s easy to love. They’re packed with juicy, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, black beans, fresh veggies, and a sprinkle of cheese…
Tip: save now, read later.
Chicken Burrito Bowls are a colorful and tasty dinner that’s easy to love. They’re packed with juicy, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, black beans, fresh veggies, and a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream. The mix of warm chicken and rice with crisp lettuce and tangy salsa makes every bite exciting.
I always enjoy making these bowls because they come together quickly and feel like a little party in a bowl. I like to add extra avocado or guacamole for creaminess and squeeze fresh lime on top to brighten the flavors. Plus, you can customize them however you like—if you want it spicy, mild, or packed with veggies, it all works!
When I serve chicken burrito bowls, I usually lay out all the ingredients buffet-style so everyone can build their own. It’s a fun way to eat, especially on busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. These bowls always remind me of warm summer evenings and friendly dinners where everyone leaves happy and full.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Diced chicken breasts cook quickly and stay tender. You could swap for thighs if you want juicier meat with a richer flavor.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika create the dish’s classic taste. If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika works too, just less smoky.
Rice: Both white and brown rice work. Brown rice adds more fiber and a nuttier flavor but takes longer to cook.
Beans and Corn: Black beans and corn add protein and sweetness. Canned or frozen options are fine; just rinse drained beans to reduce salt.
Cheese: Using cheddar and Monterey Jack gives a good mix of sharp and mild flavors. You can use just one or swap for a Mexican cheese blend if available.
Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess. If you want, you can substitute with guacamole for extra flavor.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly for Burrito Bowls?
Cooking the chicken well is key. You want it fully cooked but still juicy and nicely spiced.
- Mix the spices and coat the chicken evenly with oil and seasoning.
- Heat the pan on medium-high so chicken cooks fast without drying.
- Cook chicken in one layer, don’t crowd the pan — helps brown nicely.
- Turn occasionally until cooked through and golden (about 6-8 mins).
- Remove immediately to avoid overcooking.
This method keeps the chicken flavorful and juicy, perfect for your burrito bowl.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking chicken evenly and getting a nice brown color.
- Mixing bowl – to toss chicken with spices easily without making a mess.
- Measuring spoons – to measure spices accurately for balanced flavor.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – to dice chicken and fresh veggies quickly and safely.
- Spoon or tongs – for stirring and serving the chicken and other ingredients neatly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or steak for a different type of protein that still pairs well with these spices.
- Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Mix in some chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
- Top bowls with a dollop of salsa or pico de gallo for freshness and zing.
How to Make Chicken Burrito Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
- Lettuce or romaine leaves for the base (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. There’s no long waiting time, so you can have your burrito bowls ready to enjoy in under 20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the diced chicken with olive oil, then coat it evenly with the spice mix, making sure every piece is well covered.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the seasoned chicken in the skillet, stirring occasionally. Keep cooking until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice, light brown color—this usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Then, remove the chicken from the heat and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Base:
Put the cooked rice at the bottom of each bowl. If you like, add some lettuce or romaine leaves as a fresh, crunchy base before the rice.
4. Add the Toppings:
Arrange the cooked chicken, black beans, corn kernels, diced avocado, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and chopped onions on top of the rice or lettuce base in sections. This keeps the bowl colorful and easy to eat.
5. Sprinkle Cheese:
Top your bowl with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. The cheese will add a creamy and flavorful touch.
6. Add the Dressing:
Drizzle sour cream or Mexican crema over everything to add creaminess and tie all the flavors together.
7. Serve:
Serve your Chicken Burrito Bowl right away, with lime wedges on the side if you want an extra zesty kick. Garnish with more fresh cilantro if you like.
Enjoy this colorful, fresh, and tasty meal that combines smoky chicken, fresh veggies, melty cheese, and creamy dressing—all in one bowl!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or submerge the sealed package in cold water for a quicker option. Pat the chicken dry to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
Can I Make Chicken Burrito Bowls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and rice in advance and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken gently and assemble the bowls with fresh toppings to keep everything vibrant.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
You can swap sour cream for Mexican crema, plain Greek yogurt, or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a similar creamy texture with a mild tang.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the fresh toppings separately if possible to maintain their texture. Reheat the chicken and rice on the stove or microwave before assembling the bowl again.
