Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a delightful way to bring Tex-Mex flavor to your table. Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or meal prep for busy workdays, these bowls are customizable and packed with fresh ingredients. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and the combination of grilled chicken, vibrant veggies, and zesty toppings will satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under an hour, making it ideal for busy days.
- Flavorful: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the toppings and ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These burrito bowls store well, making them perfect for lunch prep or leftovers.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is both nutritious and filling.
Tools and Preparation
To create these delicious burrito bowls, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Medium pot
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that delicious charred flavor on the chicken strips.
- Medium pot: Perfect for cooking the rice evenly so it comes out fluffy.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables without damaging your countertops.
- Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts for even cooking and presentation of your ingredients.
Ingredients
These easy burrito bowls are a simple way to add some Tex-Mex flavors to your grilling game!
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
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano
For Toppings
- 8 corn tortillas
- 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, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all water is absorbed.
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 the bowl and mix well until they are fully coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place your marinated chicken strips on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let them rest before slicing them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
While the chicken is grilling, slice your red bell pepper, red onion, grape tomatoes, jalapenos, and avocado. Remove kernels from sweet corn by cutting them off the cob.
Step 5: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls
In each bowl, start with a base of fluffy rice. Top with sliced grilled chicken pieces. Add sweet corn kernels, chopped bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, jalapenos, avocado slices, salsa, sour cream, and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. Finally, serve with warm corn tortillas on the side.
Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a fun and customizable meal perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, serving these bowls can be both enjoyable and interactive.
Build-Your-Own Bowl
- Allow guests to create their own burrito bowls using the ingredients provided. This adds a personal touch and caters to different tastes.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Top each bowl with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or lime wedges. These garnishes enhance flavor and presentation.
Pair with Tortilla Chips
- Serve crispy tortilla chips on the side for a delightful crunch. They can also be dipped in salsa or guacamole.
Offer Additional Salsas
- Provide various salsa options, such as corn salsa or mango salsa, for added flavor choices. Different salsas can elevate the overall dish.
Add Cheese Toppings
- Include shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for those who love cheesy flavors. This extra step makes the bowls even more indulgent.
How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Creating the perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls requires attention to detail and some culinary tips. Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your bowls are always a hit.
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Marinate the Chicken: Marinating chicken strips enhances flavor and tenderness. Use a mix of olive oil, lime juice, and spices for best results.
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Cook Rice Separately: Cooking rice separately ensures it has the right texture and doesn’t become mushy. Fluff it up with a fork before serving.
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Grill Vegetables: Grilling vegetables such as bell peppers and corn adds smoky flavor. Consider adding them to the grill alongside the chicken.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce like tomatoes, avocados, and cilantro make a significant difference in taste. Opt for seasonal ingredients whenever possible.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
To complement your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, consider serving these delicious side dishes that enhance the meal experience.
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Mexican Street Corn: A flavorful corn dish topped with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice; an excellent pairing with burrito bowls.
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Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, red onion, and cilantro dressed in lime vinaigrette; it’s nutritious and vibrant.
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Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip seasoned with lime juice and spices; perfect for dipping tortilla chips or adding directly to your bowl.
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Spanish Rice: Flavored rice cooked with tomatoes and spices; it pairs well with the Tex-Mex theme of burrito bowls.
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Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime; it adds a burst of freshness to every bite.
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Quesadillas: Cheesy tortillas filled with your choice of meat or veggies; they make for an exciting addition that everyone loves.
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Refried Beans: Creamy beans seasoned with spices; they provide protein while enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Chips & Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with your favorite salsa; this combo is always a hit at gatherings!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to help you achieve the best results.
- Missing Marinade Time: Not marinating the chicken properly can lead to dull flavors. Always marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes for best results.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken strips too long can make them dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality ingredients will affect taste. Opt for fresh veggies and herbs to elevate your burrito bowls.
- Neglecting Portion Control: Overloading bowls can create a mess and unbalance flavors. Measure out ingredients, especially rice and chicken, for better presentation and taste.
- Ignoring Flavor Balance: Not balancing spices may lead to blandness. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings like salt and chili powder accordingly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers.
- Keeps well for up to 4 days.
Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Use freezer-safe containers for storage.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F; cover with foil and heat for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls that can help you with your cooking process.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice is a healthy alternative. Just adjust the cooking time as it takes longer to cook.
How spicy are these Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
The spice level depends on how many jalapenos you add. You can reduce or omit them if you prefer milder flavors.
Can I meal prep Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Absolutely! These bowls store well and are perfect for meal prep throughout the week.
What toppings work best with these burrito bowls?
Popular toppings include cheese, guacamole, and additional salsa. Customize according to your preferences!
Final Thoughts
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile. They allow room for customization based on your tastes or what you have on hand. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or hosting friends, this dish is sure to satisfy cravings while bringing comfort and joy to the table.
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings the bold flavors of Tex-Mex right to your table. These bowls combine marinated grilled chicken, fluffy cilantro lime rice, and a colorful array of fresh vegetables, all topped with zesty salsas and creamy avocado. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe is easily customizable to suit any taste preference or dietary need. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it a hit with family and friends alike. Enjoy the fun of assembling your own bowl, allowing everyone to personalize their meal while savoring delicious grilled chicken and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 medium avocado
- ½ cup salsa
- 2 ears sweet corn
- Fresh vegetables (bell pepper, red onion, grape tomatoes, jalapenos)
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Rinse the rice until water runs clear. Cook with 3 cups water and a pinch of salt in a medium pot; bring to boil, then simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Marinate chicken strips in a mixture of olive oil and spices (salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano) for at least 10 minutes.
- Grill chicken on medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp: 165°F). Rest before slicing.
- Prepare sliced vegetables and remove kernels from sweet corn.
- Assemble bowls starting with rice as the base; top with grilled chicken and desired toppings including corn, vegetables, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 450g)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 77g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
