Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a delicious way to enjoy Tex-Mex flavors right at home! Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings, this recipe combines juicy grilled chicken with fresh toppings, making it a standout dish. With easy preparation and vibrant ingredients, you’ll be serving up smiles in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Packed: Each bite is bursting with the flavors of grilled chicken, spices, and fresh toppings.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, these burrito bowls are a nutritious meal option.
- Great for Meal Prep: Prepare a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; they store well in the fridge!
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Medium pot
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that delicious charred flavor on the chicken.
- Medium pot: Perfect for cooking the rice evenly without overcrowding.
- Mixing bowl: Useful for mixing marinades or combining ingredients before serving.
Ingredients
For the Rice Base
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- ½ medium lime (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 pinch salt
For the Chicken Marinade
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken strips
For Grilling and Toppings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 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
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, combine the rice with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until all water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Add the chicken strips to this marinade and mix well to ensure they’re evenly coated. Let them marinate while you prepare other ingredients.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken strips onto the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.
Step 4: Grill the Corn & Prepare Toppings
While chicken is grilling, place sweet corn on the grill as well. Turn occasionally until charred (about 10 minutes). Once done, cut off kernels from cobs. Dice red bell pepper, onion, grape tomatoes, jalapenos, and avocado while waiting.
Step 5: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls
In bowls or containers: start with a base of rice. Top with grilled chicken slices, corn kernels, diced vegetables, salsa, sour cream, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Serve warm with corn tortillas on the side.
Now you have delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize each bowl to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your burrito bowl experience.
Add Fresh Toppings
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the spices.
- Chopped Jalapenos: For those who love heat, fresh jalapenos provide a spicy kick.
- Diced Red Onion: Adds crunch and a sharp flavor contrast to the bowl.
- Cilantro Sprigs: Fresh cilantro enhances the Tex-Mex flavor profile.
Pair with Salsas and Sauces
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh tomato salsa that brightens the dish with vibrant flavors.
- Guacamole: Smooth and creamy, guacamole is a perfect complement to grilled chicken.
- Chipotle Sauce: A smoky sauce that adds depth and richness to your burrito bowl.
Serve with Tortilla Chips
- Crunchy Chips: Serve tortilla chips on the side for added texture and fun.
- Warm Tortillas: Offer warm corn tortillas for wrapping bites of your grilled chicken burrito bowl.
How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
To make your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls even better, consider these helpful tips.
- bold marinate your chicken: Letting the chicken strips marinate for at least 30 minutes will enhance the flavors.
- bold use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the taste of your burrito bowls significantly.
- bold grill at high heat: Cooking chicken on high heat gives it a nice char and keeps it juicy.
- bold customize grains: Swap out rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture and flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- bold Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn coated in mayo, cheese, and spices offers a sweet and savory contrast.
- bold Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and lime dressing adds protein and fiber.
- bold Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and cilantro complements the flavors of the burrito bowls perfectly.
- bold Guacamole & Chips: A classic side that’s always a hit; serve with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping.
- bold Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrients to your meal.
- bold Fruit Salsa: A sweet fruit salsa made from mango or pineapple can be a delightful addition to balance savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making grilled chicken burrito bowls can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Use kosher salt, pepper, and spices generously before grilling.
- Overcooking rice: Cooking rice too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions and consider using a rice cooker for perfect results.
- Ignoring freshness: Using stale ingredients, like old tortillas or wilted vegetables, can ruin your dish. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before cooking.
- Skipping marination: Failing to marinate chicken can strip away flavor depth. Allow your chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum taste.
- Neglecting presentation: Serving a disorganized bowl looks unappealing. Layer ingredients neatly to enhance visual appeal and create an inviting meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water and cover until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about grilled chicken burrito bowls:
Can I customize my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Yes! You can add different proteins like beef or tofu, or swap vegetables based on your preferences.
How do I make the best rice for my burrito bowls?
Using long grain white rice is ideal. Rinse it before cooking and follow package instructions for fluffy results.
What toppings go well with Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Try adding cheese, guacamole, or fresh jalapenos for extra flavor and texture!
Can I make Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bowls are great for meal prep – just store them in the fridge or freezer as needed.
Final Thoughts
Grilled chicken burrito bowls offer a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. They are versatile and easy to customize, making them perfect for any occasion. Try experimenting with different toppings or ingredients to make this dish uniquely yours!
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are the perfect solution for a flavorful and satisfying meal. This quick and easy recipe brings together juicy grilled chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of fresh toppings, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just 40 minutes of preparation time, you can customize each bowl to suit your taste preferences, ensuring everyone at the table will leave with a smile. Whether enjoyed as a hearty family dinner or a convenient meal prep option, these burrito bowls are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Dive into Tex-Mex flavors that are both delicious and nutritious!
Ingredients
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken strips
- 8 corn tortillas
- Fresh vegetables (red bell pepper, avocado, grape tomatoes)
- Salsa and sour cream for toppings
Instructions
- Rinse the rice until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, combine rice with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Add chicken strips and marinate while you prep other ingredients.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat and grill marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Let rest before slicing.
- Grill sweet corn until charred (about 10 minutes) alongside the chicken. Dice other vegetables while waiting.
- Assemble bowls with rice as a base topped with sliced grilled chicken, corn kernels, diced vegetables, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 600g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 930mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
