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Chicken Burrito Bowls - A Fresh, Flavorful Weeknight Favorite

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (fresh is best)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Rice: 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice)
  • Zest of 1 lime (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • For the Beans and Veggies: 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Toppings (mix and match): 1 avocado or guacamole
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or cotija)
  • Shredded romaine or chopped lettuce
  • Salsa or pico de gallo
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and hot sauce

Instructions

  • Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 8 hours in the fridge.
  • Cook the rice: Make your rice according to package directions. Stir in lime zest, cilantro, and a pinch of salt if using. Keep warm.
  • Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high. Add a drizzle of oil if needed. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Rest 5 minutes, then slice or dice.
  • Warm the beans and corn: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm black beans with a splash of water and a pinch of salt. Warm corn in the same pan or microwave. Drain any extra liquid.
  • Prep fresh toppings: Dice bell pepper, onion, and tomatoes. Slice avocado and chop cilantro. Set out salsa, cheese, and other toppings.
  • Assemble bowls: Add a scoop of rice to each bowl. Top with chicken, black beans, corn, peppers, onions, and tomatoes.
  • Finish with flavor: Add avocado or guacamole, a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a spoon of salsa. Squeeze lime on top and add cilantro and hot sauce to taste.
  • Serve: Mix everything in the bowl so the flavors marry. Taste and adjust salt, lime, or heat as needed.