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Easy Flavor-Packed Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowls

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A quick, healthy, and flavorful chicken and rice burrito bowl recipe perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Juicy seasoned chicken paired with fluffy rice and vibrant toppings creates a satisfying and comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 cup long grain white rice or brown rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes or fresh pico de gallo
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Avocado slices or guacamole for garnish
  • Optional: Jalapeño slices, hot sauce or salsa, pickled red onions

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken by combining olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and juice of half a lime in a bowl. Coat the chicken evenly and let sit for at least 10 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
  2. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear. In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Stir in rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 18 minutes (white rice) or 40-45 minutes (brown rice) until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken about 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from pan and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
  4. Warm black beans and corn in a small pan or microwave. Chop tomatoes, cilantro, and slice avocado.
  5. Assemble bowls by spooning rice as base, then layering black beans, corn, sliced chicken, tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and avocado slices. Sprinkle extra cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice on top.
  6. Add optional garnishes like jalapeño slices or drizzle with salsa or hot sauce if desired.

Notes

Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy. Rinse rice to remove excess starch and prevent clumping. Use chicken broth instead of water for more flavor. Store chicken and rice separately for leftovers. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking chicken. For dairy-free, substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt and omit cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken burrito bowl, chicken and rice, quick healthy meals, easy dinner, Mexican bowl, weeknight dinner, meal prep