Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a fantastic way to bring the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine to your dinner table. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, these bowls offer a delightful combination of grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and zesty toppings. Their customizable nature means everyone can enjoy their favorite flavors, making them suitable for various occasions. Plus, they are packed with protein and flavor, ensuring a satisfying meal for all.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare – With just 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can whip up these delicious burrito bowls in no time.
- Flavorful Ingredients – The combination of spices and fresh ingredients ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.
- Customizable Options – Adjust the toppings and ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – These bowls can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Family-Friendly – Everyone will love building their own bowl with their favorite toppings.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect grilled chicken burrito bowls, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Rice cooker or pot
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan – This is crucial for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, adding depth to the flavor.
- Rice cooker or pot – Ensures perfectly cooked rice every time, serving as the base for your burrito bowls.
- Sharp knife – A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy while enhancing safety in the kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Rice Base
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- ½ medium lime, (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 pinch salt
For the Chicken
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano
For Toppings
- 2 ears sweet corn
- 1 medium avocado
- ½ cup salsa
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 medium red bell pepper
- ½ medium red onion
- 1 cup grape tomatoes
- 2 medium jalapenos
- 1 handful fresh cilantro
How to Make Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and mix in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Add the chicken strips and toss until well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken strips for about 6–7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through.
Step 4: Prepare Toppings
While the chicken is grilling, chop your vegetables including red bell pepper, red onion, grape tomatoes, jalapenos, and avocado. Grill sweet corn until slightly charred.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
In each bowl, start with a generous scoop of rice as your base. Top with grilled chicken strips followed by your choice of toppings like salsa, sour cream, grilled corn, diced veggies, and fresh cilantro.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are not just a meal; they can be a delightful experience for your taste buds. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your burrito bowl game.
Fresh Toppings
- Sliced Avocado: Add creaminess and healthy fats to your bowl.
- Chopped Jalapenos: For those who like it spicy, fresh jalapenos provide a nice kick.
- Diced Tomatoes: Fresh grape tomatoes add color and freshness.
Flavorful Salsas
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh blend of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro enhances flavor.
- Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy, mango salsa adds a tropical twist.
- Corn Salsa: A mix of sweet corn and peppers gives a crunchy texture.
Crunchy Elements
- Tortilla Chips: Serve on the side for a satisfying crunch.
- Crispy Lettuce: Shredded lettuce can add freshness and crunch to each bite.
Creamy Additions
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spices in the chicken.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.
How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
To ensure your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls turn out amazing every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh veggies and herbs for the best taste.
- Grill at High Heat: Cooking on high heat gives the chicken those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.
- Layer Flavors: Start with rice as a base, then layer with chicken, toppings, and sauces for a balanced bowl.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options to consider.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with sweet corn, lime, and cheese.
- Black Bean Salad: Packed with protein, this salad adds texture and flavor.
- Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices that complement your burrito bowls well.
- Guacamole Dip: Creamy avocado dip served with tortilla chips is always a hit.
- Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese and peppers make an excellent side option.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies offer a nutritious addition to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can make or break the dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Not marinating the chicken – Failing to marinate your chicken strips can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate them for at least 30 minutes to ensure they soak up spices.
- Overcooking the rice – Overcooked rice can ruin your burrito bowl’s texture. Keep an eye on cooking time and follow package instructions closely for perfect rice.
- Skipping fresh ingredients – Omitting fresh veggies, like cilantro or avocado, diminishes the bowl’s freshness. Always include these toppings for a burst of flavor.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Each ingredient has a different saltiness. Taste your components as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly for a balanced bowl.
- Using stale tortillas – Using old corn tortillas can affect the dish’s overall quality. Ensure your tortillas are fresh for the best texture and taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Store in freezer-safe containers.
- These bowls can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop – Heat on medium in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls that might help you enjoy this recipe even more!
How can I customize my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
You can add various toppings such as shredded cheese, jalapenos, or black beans based on your preference.
Can I use other proteins in my burrito bowl?
Absolutely! Ground beef, shrimp, or tofu are excellent alternatives if you want variety.
What side dishes pair well with Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Consider serving with tortilla chips and guacamole or a side salad for a complete meal.
Are Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls suitable for meal prep?
Yes! They store well and are perfect for meal prep throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different toppings and proteins to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with these Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, a perfect dish for any occasion. These customizable bowls feature juicy grilled chicken, fluffy rice, and an array of fresh toppings, allowing everyone to create their ideal meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these burrito bowls are quick to prepare and packed with protein and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 corn tortillas
- Fresh vegetables (red bell pepper, avocado, grape tomatoes, jalapenos)
- Salsa and sour cream for topping
Instructions
- Cook the rice according to package instructions; mix in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
- Marinate chicken strips in olive oil and spices for at least 15 minutes.
- Grill chicken over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Chop vegetables while chicken grills; grill corn until slightly charred.
- Assemble bowls with rice as the base, topped with grilled chicken and desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 556
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 973mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
