Name: Chicken Burrito Bowl
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: ¼ cup avocado oil; 3 tablespoons lime juice; 3 chipotle chilis in adobo sauce, finely chopped; 1 ½ tablespoons adobo sauce; 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder; ¾ teaspoon salt; 1 ½ pounds chicken breast, cut into strips; 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed; 1 ½ cups water; ¼ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste); 1 lime, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons juice); ¼ cup chopped cilantro; 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped; 1 cup tomatoes, diced; 1 avocado, chopped; 1 cup frozen corn, thawed; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained; ½ small red onion, chopped

Jump to Recipe

A Chicken Burrito Bowl is the perfect solution when you’re craving something bold, satisfying, and packed with nutrition. This recipe combines juicy chipotle-seasoned chicken with fluffy cilantro lime rice and a colorful mix of fresh vegetables to create a customizable, hearty meal that’s easy enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough to serve to guests. It strikes the perfect balance between convenience and flavor—each component comes together quickly and can even be prepped ahead of time.

The combination of spicy chicken, zesty rice, creamy avocado, and hearty beans and corn is layered with textures and flavors that make each bite exciting. Unlike takeout versions that are often heavy or greasy, this homemade burrito bowl is fresher, lighter, and can be easily adjusted to fit your dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a meal prep favorite, a customizable dinner for the family, or a balanced dish that feels like comfort food without the guilt, this chicken burrito bowl delivers on all fronts.

This is a recipe that feels just as good as it tastes, and once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular meal rotation. No tortillas required—just a fork and your appetite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with Flavor

The chipotle-marinated chicken paired with tangy cilantro lime rice and fresh vegetables makes for an incredibly flavorful and vibrant dish.

Healthy and Balanced

With lean protein, healthy fats, fiber, and veggies, it’s a complete meal that fuels you without leaving you sluggish.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Each component can be prepared in advance and stored separately, making it an ideal recipe for batch cooking and grab-and-go lunches.

Customizable for All Diets

Easily modify this recipe with different proteins, grains, or veggie options to fit dietary needs such as low-carb, vegetarian, or gluten-free.

Great for Family Dinners

Everyone can build their own bowl, which makes it a fun and interactive meal that pleases even picky eaters.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

Avocado oil
Lime juice
Chipotle chilis in adobo sauce
Adobo sauce
Garlic powder
Salt
Chicken breast

For the Cilantro Lime Rice

Long-grain white rice
Water
Salt
Lime zest
Lime juice
Cilantro

To Assemble

Romaine lettuce
Tomatoes
Avocado
Corn
Black beans
Red onion

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and substitute grilled tofu, tempeh, or extra beans for a plant-based bowl.
Low-Carb Swap: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb, grain-free version.
Different Protein Choices: Try steak, shrimp, or ground turkey for a new twist.
Add Toppings: Include shredded cheese, Greek yogurt, hot sauce, or salsa to customize your bowl.
Use Different Grains: Substitute rice with quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrients.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together avocado oil, lime juice, chipotle chilis, adobo sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Rinse the rice until the water runs clear. In a pot, bring water and salt to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until water is absorbed and rice is tender, about 15 minutes. Let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.

Step 4: Prepare the Toppings

Chop romaine, dice tomatoes, slice avocado, thaw corn, rinse and drain black beans, and chop red onion.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

In a large bowl or serving container, layer the cilantro lime rice, chicken, romaine, tomatoes, avocado, corn, black beans, and red onion. Serve immediately or store components separately for later.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to absorb maximum flavor.
Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
Use a nonstick skillet or cast iron pan for the best sear on the chicken.
Prepare each component ahead of time for quick weekday assembly.
Taste and adjust the lime juice and salt in the rice to your liking.

How to Serve

Serve the chicken burrito bowl in individual bowls layered with rice, chicken, and toppings. It pairs well with tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a side of salsa or hot sauce. For a heartier meal, you can also serve it with a tortilla on the side or turn it into a wrap.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps everything fresh and prevents sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and rice in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add a splash of water or lime juice to prevent dryness.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and provide extra juiciness and flavor.

2. Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild to medium heat from the chipotle chilis. Adjust the quantity to control spice level.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, the base recipe is dairy-free. Just avoid toppings like cheese or sour cream.

4. How do I make it vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and add more beans, tofu, or a meat alternative like tempeh.

5. Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely. Brown rice works great, though it may take longer to cook.

6. What can I use instead of chipotle in adobo?

Use smoked paprika and a dash of cayenne or hot sauce as an alternative.

7. Can I prep this ahead for lunch?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Store ingredients separately and assemble when ready to eat.

8. How long does the chicken need to marinate?

Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

9. Can I serve this cold?

Yes, it tastes great cold as a salad bowl, especially for lunches on the go.

10. What’s the best way to reheat it?

Microwave the chicken and rice, then top with fresh veggies to retain texture.

Conclusion

This Chicken Burrito Bowl recipe brings together everything you love about a burrito—spicy chicken, zesty rice, and fresh toppings—in a lighter, fresher format. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and perfect for both busy weeknights and healthy meal prep. Once you try it, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen for its flavor, flexibility, and sheer ease of assembly. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping lunches, or just looking for a satisfying dinner, this burrito bowl delivers every single time.