Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are an exciting blend of flavors that can elevate your dining experience! Perfect for casual weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even gatherings with friends, these burrito bowls cater to various occasions. With tender grilled chicken paired with fresh vegetables and zesty toppings, they stand out as a deliciously healthy option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients offers a burst of Tex-Mex flavor in every bite.
- Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
- Healthy Option: With lean protein and plenty of vegetables, these bowls are a nutritious choice.
- Great for Meal Prep: These burrito bowls store well in the fridge, ideal for lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan
- Rice Cooker or Pot
- Mixing Bowls
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor on the chicken and veggies.
- Rice Cooker or Pot: Makes cooking rice easy and ensures it’s perfectly fluffy.
- Mixing Bowls: Useful for marinating chicken and mixing ingredients before assembly.
Ingredients
These easy burrito bowls are a simple way to add some Tex-Mex flavors to your grilling game!
For the Rice
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- ½ medium lime (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 pinch salt
For the Tortillas
- 8 corn tortillas
For the Chicken Marinade
- 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
Begin 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. Set aside.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Add chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken and Corn
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the marinated chicken strips for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. At the same time, grill sweet corn until charred and tender.
Step 4: Prepare Vegetables
While the chicken is grilling, chop the red bell pepper, red onion, grape tomatoes, and jalapenos. Slice the avocado.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
In each bowl, layer cooked rice as a base. Top with grilled chicken slices cut into strips. Add grilled corn kernels and freshly diced vegetables. Finish with salsa dollops and sour cream on top.
Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are versatile and can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a family meal, these bowls offer a delicious way to serve Tex-Mex flavors.
Fresh Toppings
- Avocado Slices: Add creamy avocado for extra richness.
- Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro to enhance the flavor.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances spices.
Flavorful Salsas
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro make a zesty topping.
- Mango Salsa: Sweet and spicy mango salsa brings a tropical twist.
- Corn Salsa: A mix of corn, peppers, and lime juice adds crunch.
Crunchy Elements
- Tortilla Chips: Serve on the side for added crunch and texture.
- Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, pickled jalapeños offer a tangy bite.
Hearty Additions
- Black Beans: Adding black beans increases protein and fiber content.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini are excellent for extra flavor.
How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
To achieve the ultimate Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and presentation.
- Marinate the Chicken: Allow the chicken strips to marinate in olive oil and spices for at least 30 minutes. This enhances flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh produce like ripe tomatoes and sweet corn. Fresh ingredients elevate your dish.
- Grill for Flavor: Grill the chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through. This adds a smoky flavor that complements the bowl.
- Layer Ingredients Wisely: Start with rice at the bottom, then layer proteins, veggies, and toppings. This creates an appealing presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad with corn, lime, and cheese that’s perfect alongside burrito bowls.
- Spanish Rice: Flavored rice seasoned with spices complements the main dish beautifully.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs perfectly with burritos and adds healthy fats.
- Refried Beans: Rich in flavor, refried beans add heartiness to your meal.
- Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas make a great finger food option alongside burrito bowls.
- Chips & Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with salsa provide a crunchy contrast that everyone loves.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Bright cilantro lime rice enhances the flavors of your grilled chicken bowls nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, several common pitfalls can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Using uncooked rice: Always cook the rice before adding it to your burrito bowls. Uncooked rice will ruin the texture and flavor of your dish.
- Overseasoning the chicken: Adding too much salt or spice can overpower the dish. Use just enough seasoning to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
- Neglecting fresh ingredients: Skipping fresh toppings like avocado or cilantro can make your burrito bowls bland. Always include fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors.
- Forgetting to marinate: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to dry and flavorless meat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best taste.
- Overloading with toppings: While toppings are great, too many can make the bowl messy and hard to eat. Stick to a few key toppings that complement each other.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover burrito bowls in airtight containers.
- Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for freezing.
- The burrito bowls can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bowl in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. Just note that brown rice may require longer cooking time.
How do I customize my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Feel free to add your favorite ingredients such as black beans, corn, or different vegetables. This recipe is versatile!
What should I serve with Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Consider serving with tortilla chips or a side salad for a complete meal experience.
How do I ensure my chicken is juicy?
Marinating the chicken strips is key. It helps keep them moist and flavorful during grilling.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a fantastic meal option that combines savory grilled chicken with vibrant and fresh toppings. These bowls are not only easy to prepare but also highly customizable, making them perfect for any occasion. Try experimenting with different ingredients to create your ideal burrito bowl!
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are the ultimate comfort food, bursting with vibrant Tex-Mex flavors and fresh ingredients. These customizable bowls feature tender, marinated grilled chicken atop a fluffy rice base, complemented by colorful veggies and zesty toppings. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep, they offer a nutritious option for any occasion. Enjoy them solo or share with friends at gatherings. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can have a satisfying meal that caters to your taste preferences while delivering deliciousness in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken strips
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 ears sweet corn
- 1 medium avocado
- Fresh vegetables (red bell pepper, red onion, grape tomatoes, jalapeños)
- Salsa and sour cream for topping
Instructions
- Cook the rice according to package instructions; fluff with lime juice and cilantro.
- Marinate chicken in olive oil and spices for at least 15 minutes.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked; grill sweet corn until charred.
- Chop vegetables while grilling.
- Assemble bowls: layer rice, grilled chicken, corn, veggies, salsa, and sour cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 500g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
