Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a delightful way to bring Tex-Mex flavors to your dinner table. Perfect for family meals, meal prep, or casual gatherings, these bowls are packed with delicious ingredients that cater to various tastes. They offer a wonderful blend of grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and hearty rice, making them not only tasty but also visually appealing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Each component is seasoned perfectly, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, these bowls are a great option for a balanced meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious burrito bowls.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Grill or grill pan
- Pot for rice
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing veggies quickly while maintaining their crunch.
- Grill or grill pan: Perfect for achieving those beautiful grill marks on the chicken, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
- Pot for rice: Ensures even cooking of the rice so that it pairs well with the other ingredients.
Ingredients
These easy burrito bowls are a simple way to add some Tex-Mex flavors to your grilling game!
For the Rice
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- ½ medium lime (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 pinch salt
For the Tortillas
- 8 corn tortillas
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 the Toppings
- 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: Cook the Rice
Start by rinsing the long grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine the rice with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for about 18 minutes until tender. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the rice is cooking, season the chicken strips with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Mix well to coat evenly.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced red onion and bell pepper until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Add grilled corn kernels cut from cob if desired.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
In serving bowls, layer cooked rice as the base. Top with grilled chicken pieces, sautéed vegetables, sliced avocado, grape tomatoes halved, jalapeños sliced thinly, salsa, sour cream, and fresh cilantro as garnish.
Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Serving grilled chicken burrito bowls is all about creativity and customization. You can mix and match toppings and sides to suit your taste. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your burrito bowl experience.
Fresh Toppings
- Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor.
- Sliced Jalapenos: For those who enjoy some heat, sliced jalapenos are perfect.
- Diced Avocado: Creamy avocado complements the dish beautifully.
Sauces
- Salsa Verde: This tangy sauce pairs well with the grilled chicken.
- Chipotle Sauce: Add a smoky flavor with a drizzle of chipotle sauce.
- Creamy Ranch Dressing: A rich ranch dressing balances the spices nicely.
Accompaniments
- Corn Salsa: A refreshing corn salsa gives a sweet crunch to each bite.
- Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips can be served on the side for added texture.
How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Creating the perfect grilled chicken burrito bowl requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish is a hit every time.
- Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken strips for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Marinate Ahead of Time: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances its taste and juiciness.
- Cook Corn Right: Grill or boil the sweet corn until tender but still crisp for added sweetness in your bowls.
- Balance Flavors: Ensure you have a mix of spicy, creamy, and tangy elements for a well-rounded taste.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Pairing side dishes with your grilled chicken burrito bowls can elevate your meal. Consider these tasty options to complement your main dish.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad features grilled corn, mayonnaise, cheese, and spices that provide a wonderful contrast.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness, making them an excellent side.
- Guacamole: A fresh guacamole brings creaminess and flavor that pairs perfectly with burrito bowls.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Flavored rice adds another layer of texture and taste; it’s simple yet delicious.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro brings brightness and crunch to your meal.
- Chips and Queso Dip: Crispy chips served with warm queso dip make for a fun appetizer or snack alongside your burrito bowls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping marination: Not marinating the chicken strips can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance taste.
- Overcooking rice: Overcooked rice can become mushy. Use the correct water-to-rice ratio and follow cooking times carefully.
- Neglecting toppings: Skipping fresh toppings like avocado or cilantro can dull the dish’s flavor. Always add fresh ingredients for a burst of flavor.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your burrito bowls tasteless. Use enough salt, pepper, and spices to elevate your dish.
- Not warming tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can make your burrito bowl less enjoyable. Warm them before serving for better texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Keep the chicken and toppings separate for better freshness.
Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions related to Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls:
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice. Just adjust the cooking time, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.
How do I customize my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
You can add beans, different vegetables, or even switch the protein to beef or tofu. Get creative with your toppings!
What should I serve with Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Consider serving with tortilla chips and salsa or a side salad for a complete meal.
Can I make these burrito bowls vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute grilled veggies or black beans for the chicken for a delicious vegetarian option.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize them based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful Tex-Mex dish that everyone will love!
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a vibrant, mouthwatering dish perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual get-togethers. Bursting with fresh Tex-Mex flavors, these bowls combine perfectly grilled chicken, fluffy rice, and an array of colorful vegetables, creating a satisfying and visually appealing meal. Each bowl is customizable to cater to various tastes—whether you prefer spicy jalapeños or creamy avocado—making them a hit for everyone at the table. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, these burrito bowls are not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrition, featuring lean protein and an abundance of fresh veggies. Get ready to enjoy a delightful culinary experience that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 corn tortillas
- Fresh vegetables (corn, avocado, red bell pepper, red onion)
- Salsa and sour cream for topping
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water and cook in a pot with 3 cups water until tender (about 18 minutes). Stir in lime juice and cilantro.
- Season chicken strips with olive oil and spices; grill over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Let rest before slicing.
- Sauté diced onion and bell pepper in a skillet until softened.
- Assemble bowls by layering rice, chicken, sautéed vegetables, and toppings like avocado, tomatoes, jalapeños, salsa, and sour cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
