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This vibrant chicken burrito bowl packs all your favorite burrito flavors into a convenient, wholesome meal that's perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. The chipotle-marinated chicken brings smoky heat while the cilantro lime rice provides the perfect aromatic base for layering fresh, colorful toppings.
I started making these bowls after our favorite Mexican restaurant closed down during the pandemic. What began as a craving-satisfier has become our family's Monday tradition, with everyone customizing their own bowl exactly how they like it.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: Provides lean protein that takes on the marinade beautifully. Look for organic if possible
- Chipotle chilis in adobo sauce: Add smoky heat and authentic Mexican flavor. Freeze leftover chipotles for future use
- Avocado oil: Has a high smoke point perfect for cooking the chicken while adding heart-healthy fats
- Lime juice: Brightens both the chicken marinade and rice with essential acidity
- Long-grain white rice: Creates the perfect fluffy texture for absorbing flavors. Jasmine rice works wonderfully too
- Cilantro: Brings fresh herbaceous notes that complement the lime perfectly. Buy bunches with vibrant green leaves
- Black beans: Add plant-based protein and fiber. Drain and rinse well to remove excess sodium
- Avocado: Provides creamy richness and healthy fats. Choose slightly firm avocados that yield to gentle pressure
- Fresh vegetables: Like romaine, tomatoes and corn create texture contrast and nutrient variety
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine avocado oil, lime juice, finely chopped chipotle peppers with adobo sauce, garlic powder and salt in a large bowl. Whisk thoroughly until well combined. Add chicken strips and toss gently to ensure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight marination will develop even deeper flavors.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Remove chicken from marinade allowing excess to drip off. Add chicken strips to the hot pan in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown with slight charring and internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should be juicy with caramelized edges. Set aside.
- Prepare Perfect Cilantro Lime Rice:
- Thoroughly rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear to remove excess starch. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan, add rice and salt, then reduce to a simmer. Cover with tight-fitting lid and cook undisturbed for 15-18 minutes until water is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and let steam with lid on for 5 minutes. Fluff with fork then gently fold in lime zest, lime juice and freshly chopped cilantro.
- Assemble Your Bowl:
- Start with a base layer dividing the cilantro lime rice and chopped romaine in each bowl. Arrange the chicken and all toppings in separate sections around the bowl rather than mixing everything together. This creates a beautiful presentation and allows each component to maintain its distinct flavor and texture.
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These bowls are ideal for weekly meal preparation. Cook all components on Sunday, store separately in airtight containers, and assemble fresh bowls throughout the week. The chicken and rice will keep well for 3-4 days refrigerated. For the freshest experience, store avocado separately with the pit intact and slice just before serving to prevent browning.
Customization Options
This recipe welcomes endless variations based on dietary needs or preferences. For a lower-carb version, double the romaine and reduce or eliminate the rice. Vegetarians can replace chicken with extra black beans or add crumbled tofu seasoned with the same marinade ingredients. Carnitas, steak, or shrimp all work beautifully as protein alternatives.
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Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, this bowl reaches new heights with a few finishing touches. Offer lime wedges, fresh salsa, and Greek yogurt or sour cream on the side. A sprinkle of crumbled cotija or queso fresco adds delightful saltiness. For heat lovers, provide hot sauce options or thinly sliced jalapeños for customizable spice levels.
The Origins of Burrito Bowls
The burrito bowl concept emerged from American fast-casual restaurants as a carb-conscious alternative to traditional burritos. While not authentically Mexican, these bowls incorporate genuine Mexican flavors and ingredients in a format that emphasizes fresh components. This version elevates the typical restaurant offering with quality ingredients and balanced flavors that honor Mexican culinary traditions while adapting them for modern, health-conscious home cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I marinate the chicken for bold flavors?
Combine avocado oil, lime juice, chipotle chilis, adobo sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Marinate the chicken strips for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- → What is the best way to cook the chicken?
Cook the marinated chicken in a hot skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked, which takes about 5 minutes.
- → How is cilantro lime rice prepared?
Cook rinsed white rice with water and salt. Once tender, fluff with a fork and mix in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro for freshness.
- → What toppings can I use for the bowl?
Top the bowl with lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped avocado, black beans, thawed corn, and red onion for a variety of textures and flavors.
- → Can I customize this protein bowl?
Absolutely! Swap out the chicken with tofu or shrimp, use quinoa instead of rice, and experiment with different vegetables or seasonings.