There’s something undeniably satisfying about a meal that brings everything you love together in one bowl-and this Chicken Burrito Bowl does exactly that. Tender, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, fresh veggies, beans, and a zesty crema-it’s like your favorite burrito, but deconstructed, healthier, and even easier to meal prep.
Pair it with flavorful, one-pot sides like Mexican rice or balance it out with fresh, crunchy sides like cucumber tomato salad for a meal that’s as colorful as it is comforting.
Whether you’re craving something hearty yet wholesome or looking for a recipe that works for family dinner and next-day lunch, this bowl checks every box. It’s customizable, meal-prep friendly, and brings bold flavor in every bite. If you’re into nourishing bowl meals like lentil and roasted veggie or need meal-prep staples like classic egg salad to round out the week, this one fits right in.
💡 Because a bowl full of vibrant ingredients can be just as comforting as a cheesy bake-without the heaviness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Burrito Bowl isn’t just another “bowl” recipe-it’s a smart, satisfying, and endlessly customizable way to bring flavor, nutrition, and ease into your week. Whether you’re looking for meal prep inspiration or a vibrant, feel-good dinner that the whole family will enjoy, this bowl delivers.
✔️ Everything You Love in One Bowl
It’s got all the craveable burrito flavors-juicy chicken, seasoned rice, beans, veggies, and creamy toppings-but without the mess or the tortilla. Every bite is layered with flavor and texture.
✔️ Customizable for Any Diet
Whether you’re eating low-carb, gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian, this bowl adapts to your needs. Simply swap the base, protein, or toppings to match your lifestyle.
✔️ Meal Prep Friendly
Cook once, enjoy multiple times. You can prep all the components ahead of time and assemble as needed throughout the week.
✔️ Family-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing
It’s a DIY dinner dream. Let everyone build their own bowl with their favorite ingredients-no picky eater complaints here!
✔️ Packed with Bold, Fresh Flavors
From citrusy marinade and smoky spices to creamy avocado crema and fresh veggies, this bowl is anything but boring.
✔️ Better Than Takeout
Skip the line and the extra sodium. This homemade version tastes better, costs less, and puts you in control of every ingredient.
💡 Pro Tip – Want even more flavor? Add a spoonful of salsa, a handful of crushed tortilla chips, or a sprinkle of cotija cheese just before serving.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp lime juice
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2 tsp chili powder
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1 tsp cumin
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowl:
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2 cups cooked white or brown rice (or cauliflower rice)
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1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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½ red onion, finely chopped
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1 avocado, sliced or diced
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Fresh cilantro, chopped
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Lime wedges, for serving
For the Avocado Crema:
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1 ripe avocado
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¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
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Juice of 1 lime
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1 garlic clove
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Pinch of salt
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Splash of water to thin
Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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2 teaspoons chili powder
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1 teaspoon cumin
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
Add the chicken and toss to coat well. Let it marinate for at least 20–30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).
💡 Short on time? Even 10 minutes of marinating makes a difference!
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips or cubes.
💡 For easy cleanup, line your pan with parchment or foil if roasting in the oven (400°F for 20–25 minutes).
3️⃣ Prepare the Avocado Crema
In a small blender or food processor, combine:
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1 ripe avocado
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¼ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
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Juice of 1 lime
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1 garlic clove
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Pinch of salt
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Splash of water to thin (1–2 tablespoons)
Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt or lime juice to taste.
4️⃣ Cook the Rice & Prep Your Ingredients
While the chicken cooks, prepare your rice of choice and warm the black beans and corn if desired. Chop any fresh ingredients-tomatoes, onion, avocado, cilantro-and set up your toppings.
💡 Cilantro-lime rice adds extra brightness: just stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro before serving.
5️⃣ Assemble the Bowls
In each serving bowl, add:
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A base of rice
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A scoop of black beans and corn
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Fresh tomatoes, onion, and avocado
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Sliced chicken on top
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Drizzle generously with avocado crema
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Finish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately while the chicken is warm and the crema is fresh. Enjoy as-is or pair with tortilla chips or a side of greens for even more texture.
💡 Pro Tip – Make it a burrito by wrapping everything in a large tortilla!
Recipe Variations
🔹 Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowl
Swap the chili seasoning for a marinade of cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
🔹 Spicy Southwest Bowl
Add jalapeños, spicy chipotle mayo, or hot sauce for extra heat.
🔹 Vegetarian Version
Replace chicken with roasted sweet potato, grilled tofu, or extra beans.
🔹 Quinoa or Greens Base
Use cooked quinoa or chopped romaine instead of rice for a lighter twist.
🔹 Mango Salsa Topper
Add sweetness and brightness with a fresh mango or pineapple salsa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this Chicken Burrito Bowl ahead of time❓
Yes! This is one of the best meal prep-friendly recipes out there. Cook and store each component separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, just reheat the chicken and rice, then assemble with your fresh toppings and sauce.
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own❓
Absolutely. If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great substitute. Just season it with some chili powder, cumin, and lime juice to give it that bold burrito flavor.
What’s the best rice to use for burrito bowls❓
You can use white rice, brown rice, or even cilantro-lime rice. Want to lighten it up? Try cauliflower rice or shredded romaine lettuce for a low-carb option.
Is this dish gluten-free❓
It sure can be! Just make sure to use gluten-free seasonings, sauces, and check that your Greek yogurt or sour cream is certified gluten-free (if using avocado crema).
Can I add other toppings to this bowl❓
Definitely. These bowls are super flexible. Add shredded cheese, pickled onions, salsa, jalapeños, mango, or even crushed tortilla chips. Make it your own!
What protein can I use instead of chicken❓
Try shrimp, steak, ground turkey, or plant-based options like tofu, black beans, or roasted chickpeas. The seasoning and structure work with just about anything.
Can I freeze the chicken and rice❓
Yes. Cooked chicken and rice can both be frozen in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving. The toppings and sauce should always be fresh.
💡 Pro Tip – Keep extra avocado crema or salsa in the fridge to drizzle over tacos, grain bowls, or roasted veggies throughout the week!
Conclusion – The Bowl That Has It All
Fresh, hearty, colorful, and endlessly adaptable-this Chicken Burrito Bowl is the kind of recipe that never gets old. It’s wholesome enough for clean eating, satisfying enough for comfort food cravings, and easy enough for even your busiest days.
Whether you’re cooking for the family or batch-prepping for the week ahead, this bowl brings big flavor, vibrant color, and feel-good satisfaction in every bite.
🍴 So grab your bowl, build your layers, and enjoy a fresh new favorite-one forkful at a time.