Chicken Burrito Bowls Recipe (Flavor Packed)

Say hello to your new favorite one-bowl wonder: Chicken Burrito Bowls! They’ve got everything you love about a burrito—juicy chicken, rice, beans, veggies, salsa, and cheese—but served in a bowl for easy eating, easy cleanup, and endless customization.

These are perfect for meal prep, build-your-own family dinners, and even picky eaters since everyone can make their own bowl just how they like it. Plus, they’re super nutritious, naturally gluten-free, and totally delicious whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or meal prepping for the week.

What You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Bowls:

2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice)
1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup shredded lettuce (optional)
½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 avocado or guacamole
¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Salsa or pico de gallo
Fresh lime wedges
Chopped cilantro, for garnish

Pro Tips for Burrito Bowl Bliss

🌯 Let everyone build their own bowl—great for picky eaters and kids!
🔥 Char the corn and chicken in a skillet or grill pan for extra flavor.
🍚 Use cilantro-lime rice for a Chipotle-style twist.
🥑 Make it meal prep-friendly—store ingredients separately in containers.
🧄 Marinate the chicken ahead of time for even more flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowl (for marinade)
Skillet or grill pan
Knife and cutting board
Cooking pot or rice cooker
Serving bowls or meal prep containers

Substitutions & Variations

🌾 Low-carb? Use cauliflower rice
🌶️ Add heat – top with jalapeños or hot sauce
🫘 Swap beans – use pinto or refried instead
🧀 Dairy-free? Skip cheese or use vegan alternatives
🌮 Make it taco night – use the same ingredients in taco shells!

Make-Ahead Tips

Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead
Cook and store rice and beans in containers for up to 4 days
Chop veggies and store in airtight containers
Assemble bowls fresh or keep ingredients separated for mix-and-match meals

How to Make Chicken Burrito Bowls

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate for 30 minutes to overnight.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through (165°F internal temp).
Let rest, then slice or chop.

Step 3: Prepare the Bowl Ingredients

While the chicken cooks, prep rice, beans, corn, tomatoes, lettuce, and toppings.
Warm beans and corn in the microwave or stovetop if desired.

Step 4: Build Your Burrito Bowl

Start with a base of rice, then layer on chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, cheese, and toppings.
Add a dollop of sour cream, a spoon of guacamole, and a squeeze of lime. Garnish with cilantro.

Leftovers & Storage

Store ingredients separately in airtight containers
Lasts in the fridge for up to 4 days
Reheat rice, beans, and chicken before assembling for fresh taste
Great for lunchboxes and next-day bowls!

Final Thoughts

These Chicken Burrito Bowls are a game-changer—healthy, hearty, easy to customize, and just plain delicious. Whether you’re feeding the whole crew or prepping lunches for the week, they’ll keep everyone coming back for more. 🌯🥑🔥

💬 Did you make a build-your-own bar? Try it with grilled corn or spicy salsa? I’d love to hear how you made it your own—drop your favorite bowl combo in the comments! 🍗🥣💛