Flavorful Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans

These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a delightful fusion of zesty, juicy chicken and a medley of colorful, fresh toppings. The tangy marinade infuses the chicken with bold flavors, while the combination of fluffy rice, creamy guacamole, and spiced beans creates a balanced and satisfying meal.

Perfect for weeknights or meal prepping, these bowls can be customized with your favorite toppings for a personalized dining experience. From a drizzle of homemade taco sauce to the crunch of fresh lettuce, every bite is a burst of flavor that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Full Recipe:

    • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
    • 1 tbsp kosher salt (Diamond Crystal preferred)
    • 2 tsp dried oregano
    • 2 tsp chili powder
    • 1.5 tsp ground cumin
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • 1 tsp smoked paprika
    • ½ tsp ground coriander
    • ½ tsp onion powder
    • ½ tsp ground black pepper
    • 2.5 tsp oil
    • 1 tsp lime juice (from 1 lime)
  • Burrito Bowls:
    • 4 cups cooked rice (white, black, brown, or cauliflower)
    • 4–6 cooked chicken thighs (prepared above)
    • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
    • 1 cup pico de gallo (or salsa or chopped tomatoes)
    • ½ cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cotija, or queso fresco)
    • ¼–½ cup guacamole (or plain avocado)
    • Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Marinade:
    In a small bowl, combine all spices, salt, and pepper. Whisk oil and lime juice together in a measuring cup. Add the spice blend and whisk to combine.
  2. Marinate the Chicken:
    Place chicken thighs in a sealable plastic bag. Pour in the marinade, remove air, and seal the bag. Massage to coat the thighs evenly. Marinate in the fridge for 45 minutes, flipping halfway, then let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling.
  3. Grill the Chicken:
    Preheat the grill to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken thighs on the grill, cooking for 5 minutes with the lid closed. Flip and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from grill, let rest for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Assemble the Bowls:
    Divide 1 cup rice into each of 4 bowls. Add 1–1.5 chicken thighs per bowl. Top each with ¼ cup beans, ¼ cup pico de gallo, 2 tbsp cheese, 1–2 tbsp guacamole, and cilantro if desired. Add optional toppings like sour cream, diced onion, or taco sauce for extra flavor. Serve and enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including marination)
Kcal: 450 per serving | Servings: 4

Why Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls Are a Perfect Meal Option

Grilled chicken burrito bowls are a versatile, satisfying, and healthy choice for both weeknight dinners and meal prepping. Combining protein-rich chicken, nutrient-dense beans, flavorful rice, and a variety of fresh toppings, they offer a balanced and customizable meal that suits a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. The smoky, tangy flavors from the marinade paired with fresh and zesty toppings like guacamole, pico de gallo, and cilantro make these bowls a hit for the whole family.

The Appeal of Burrito Bowls

One of the main attractions of burrito bowls is their flexibility. Unlike traditional burritos, which rely on a tortilla to hold everything together, burrito bowls present all the delicious elements in a bowl format, making them easier to eat and perfect for people looking to reduce carb intake or go gluten-free. They also allow for portion control, enabling diners to add or subtract ingredients to suit their personal taste or dietary restrictions.

A Healthy and Balanced Meal

Grilled chicken burrito bowls are not only flavorful but also nutritious. The grilled chicken provides lean protein, while the beans contribute fiber and essential nutrients like iron and potassium. Rice offers a source of carbohydrates for energy, and the fresh toppings like avocado, tomatoes, and lettuce deliver vital vitamins and minerals. For those watching their calorie intake, opting for cauliflower rice or skipping the cheese can make the dish lighter while still retaining its deliciousness.

Customizing Your Bowl for Different Diets

Burrito bowls are incredibly adaptable to different dietary requirements.

  • Gluten-Free: Ensure that all toppings and marinades are free of gluten-containing ingredients.
  • Keto or Low-Carb: Swap traditional rice for cauliflower rice and skip the beans to keep the meal low in carbohydrates.
  • Vegan or Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with grilled tofu, roasted vegetables, or a plant-based protein like black bean patties.
  • Dairy-Free: Simply omit cheese and use dairy-free toppings like salsa and guacamole.

Great for Meal Prep

Another reason why these bowls are a fantastic option is their suitability for meal prepping. Preparing a batch of grilled chicken and cooked rice ahead of time allows you to assemble meals quickly during the week. The toppings can also be prepped in advance, stored separately to maintain freshness, and added when you’re ready to eat. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a healthy and delicious homemade meal every day.

The Magic of the Marinade

The grilled chicken in this dish gets its signature flavor from a simple yet effective marinade. A combination of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and lime juice infuses the chicken with a smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy profile. Marinating the chicken not only enhances the taste but also helps to tenderize the meat, ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful after grilling.

Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Bowl

While the base ingredients of chicken, rice, and beans provide a hearty foundation, the toppings are what truly make burrito bowls shine. Consider adding:

  • Fresh Vegetables: Diced onions, chopped lettuce, and sliced jalapeños for a refreshing crunch.
  • Sauces: A drizzle of taco sauce, salsa, or a dollop of sour cream adds moisture and additional layers of flavor.
  • Cheese: Shredded Mexican blend, cotija, or queso fresco offer creaminess and a savory kick.
  • Herbs and Spices: Freshly chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish and balances richer flavors.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Grilled chicken burrito bowls are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Serve them as a quick dinner for busy weeknights, a crowd-pleasing option at casual gatherings, or a convenient choice for office lunches. They’re easy to scale up for larger groups and can be laid out buffet-style, allowing guests to build their own bowls with toppings of their choice.

Budget-Friendly and Sustainable

This dish is also a cost-effective way to feed a family or group. Using pantry staples like rice, beans, and spices alongside fresh produce keeps costs low. Additionally, the recipe helps reduce food waste by utilizing leftovers. If you have grilled chicken or rice from a previous meal, this bowl is a creative and delicious way to repurpose them.

Time-Saving Tips for a Faster Meal

For those short on time, there are several shortcuts to make this meal even quicker:

  • Pre-Cooked Ingredients: Use microwaveable rice and canned beans.
  • Store-Bought Toppings: Grab ready-made guacamole, pico de gallo, and pre-shredded cheese.
  • Batch Cooking: Grill extra chicken and cook a large batch of rice to use throughout the week.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls

Grilled chicken burrito bowls are a culinary triumph that combines taste, health, and convenience. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious family dinner, an easy meal prep option, or a dish to impress your guests, these bowls tick all the boxes. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and bold flavors make them a favorite in any household. Experiment with different toppings and sides to keep the dish exciting and tailored to your preferences. Once you try these burrito bowls, they’re bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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