These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a fun and tasty meal! Picture juicy grilled chicken served over fluffy rice and hearty beans, topped with your favorite fresh veggies.
Making these bowls is like a kitchen party! I love adding extra salsa and cheese to mine—who can resist a cheesy bite? Plus, they’re great for meal prep! 🌯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use skinless chicken breasts for a lean meal. If you’re looking to save time, rotisserie chicken can work as a great substitute; just slice or shred it before adding to the bowl.
Spices: I love the mix of chili powder and cumin for that warm, smoky flavor. If you need a little kick, add cayenne pepper or paprika. For a mild version, you might leave out the chili powder entirely.
Rice: White rice is the go-to here, but you could swap it for brown rice for added fiber. Quinoa is another tasty alternative that can boost protein content.
Black Beans: Canned black beans are super convenient. If you prefer, kidney beans or pinto beans can also be used. Just remember to rinse them well to cut down on sodium.
Pico de Gallo: You can easily make your own with fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. If fresh veggies aren’t available, jarred salsa can serve as a quick substitute.
Guacamole: I can’t resist fresh guacamole, but grabbing a store-bought version saves tons of time. You could also mash up avocado with a little lime juice, salt, and pepper for a simple variation.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic topping, but you can use Monterey Jack or queso fresco for a fresh twist.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get it just right. First, using a marinade tenderizes the meat and adds flavor, so don’t skip that step!
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken nicely.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Using a meat thermometer hits the sweet spot at 165°F (75°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps it juicy when you slice into it.
With these tips, your chicken should turn out flavorful and juicy every time!
Delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Burrito Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup pico de gallo (or fresh diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro)
- 1/2 cup guacamole
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and an additional 15-20 minutes for cooking the chicken. In total, you should plan for about 30-35 minutes to make these tasty burrito bowls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will ensure that your chicken cooks nicely and gets those lovely grill marks!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This marinade is packed with flavor and will make your chicken taste amazing!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade, making sure they’re well covered. Let the chicken marinate for about 15 to 30 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once your grill is hot, place the marinated chicken breasts on it. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
5. Assemble the Burrito Bowl:
In a large bowl, start building your burrito bowl! Begin by adding a good scoop of cooked rice at the bottom. Then layer the sliced grilled chicken on top of the rice, followed by the black beans. Next, sprinkle on the pico de gallo for a fresh kick.
6. Top It Off:
Finish your bowl by adding a scoop of guacamole and a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese. If you like, you can also add some fresh cilantro for extra flavor and garnish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your burrito bowls immediately while everything is fresh and warm. Enjoy every bite of your delicious creation!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with grilled steak, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times: shrimp usually cooks in about 4-5 minutes on each side, and tofu should be grilled until crispy and heated through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Carbs?
If you’re looking to reduce carbs, you can substitute the rice with cauliflower rice. Simply sauté riced cauliflower in a pan with a little olive oil for about 5-7 minutes until tender. It makes a great low-carb base for your burrito bowl!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place each component in separate airtight containers and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat the chicken and beans in the microwave or on the stove, then assemble your bowl again for a fresh meal.
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Cooking Dried Beans?
Yes, canned beans are a great time-saver! Just make sure to rinse and drain them well before adding them to your bowl to reduce excess sodium. If you prefer using dried beans, cook them according to package instructions before using them in this recipe.
