Description
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl
Ingredients
2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
2 cups cooked white rice
1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup pico de gallo
1/4 cup sour cream
1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
1 lime, halved
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Season the Chicken:
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Grill until cooked through, then slice.
Cook the Rice:
Prepare the rice according to package instructions and fluff with a fork.
Assemble the Bowl:
Start with a base of cooked rice. Add black beans, sliced grilled chicken, shredded cheese, pico de gallo, and sour cream.
Garnish:
Top with sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Serve & Enjoy:
Serve in bowls and enjoy this colorful, flavorful, and satisfying meal!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect burrito bowl every time. First, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While it heats, pat the chicken breasts dry and rub them thoroughly with the olive oil and spice mixture. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain. While the chicken cooks and rests, prepare your rice. For best results, use a 1:2 rice-to-water ratio, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 18 minutes. Remove from heat and let it steam, covered, for 5 more minutes before fluffing. This ensures perfectly separate grains.
Serving Suggestions
This bowl is highly customizable. For a heartier meal, add sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole. To boost freshness, include shredded lettuce or crunchy corn kernels. For a low-carb option, swap the rice for cauliflower rice or a bed of mixed greens. Serve with warm tortillas on the side for those who prefer to make their creation into a wrap. A cold Mexican beer or a glass of agua fresca pairs perfectly.
How-to Summary
In short: Season and grill chicken until fully cooked. Cook rice separately until fluffy. In a bowl, layer rice, beans, sliced chicken, cheese, pico de gallo, and sour cream. Finish with jalapeños, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely. Skirt steak, shrimp, carnitas, or seasoned ground turkey are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and rice gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water to the rice to prevent dryness. Add fresh cold toppings after reheating.
Is there a way to make this bowl meal-prep friendly?
Yes. Grill a large batch of chicken, cook a big pot of rice, and store them with the beans and cheese. Keep fresh toppings like pico de gallo, sour cream, and cilantro separate to add just before eating.
My rice always turns out mushy. What am I doing wrong?
You are likely using too much water or not letting it steam properly. Rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch and follow the simmer-and-steam method outlined in the step-by-step guide.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Easily. Omit the chicken and add extra beans, roasted sweet potatoes, sautéed peppers and onions, or a plant-based chicken alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Slicing the Chicken Immediately: Let it rest after grilling to keep the juices inside.
- Using Canned Beans Without Rinsing: Always rinse canned beans to remove excess sodium and the starchy liquid.
- Overloading the Bowl: Keep portions balanced so every bite includes a mix of flavors and textures.
- Skipping the Acid: The lime juice is crucial; it brightens all the other ingredients.
Conclusion
This Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl is more than just a recipe—it’s a template for a fast, nutritious, and endlessly adaptable meal. By mastering the simple techniques of grilling chicken and cooking rice, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home any night of the week. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients and make it your own. Enjoy the vibrant, satisfying flavors of this complete meal in a bowl.