Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans

Introduction

If you’re craving a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings together all the best elements of a burrito without the tortilla, look no further than these Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans! Packed with grilled chicken, seasoned rice, and hearty beans, this bowl brings a balanced and delicious combination of protein, fiber, and fresh flavors. The grilled chicken is marinated in a zesty blend of spices that infuse each bite with smoky, savory goodness, while the rice and beans add a satisfying base. Topped with fresh toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa, these burrito bowls are perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep for the week. This dish is customizable, allowing you to add or remove ingredients based on your preferences, making it a flexible and easy choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy and Nutritious

With lean grilled chicken, fiber-packed beans, and wholesome rice, this burrito bowl is a nutritious meal that’s filling without being heavy.

2. Quick and Easy

In just about 30 minutes, you can have a flavorful and satisfying meal ready to serve. The recipe is simple, making it perfect for busy weekdays or casual gatherings.

3. Customizable

You can customize the toppings and add-ins, like sautéed vegetables, jalapeños, or cheese, to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

4. Great for Meal Prep

This recipe works wonderfully for meal prepping. Make a big batch and store the components separately to enjoy throughout the week.

5. Bursting with Flavor

The marinated grilled chicken is packed with flavor, and paired with seasoned rice, creamy beans, and tangy toppings, each bite is a burst of deliciousness.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)

For the Beans:

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (or pinto beans)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Toppings:

• Fresh guacamole
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Salsa or pico de gallo
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Shredded cheese (optional)
• Sliced jalapeños (optional)

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can sauté bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for a veggie-packed version of this burrito bowl.
• Vegan Version: Skip the chicken and use marinated tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative. Use vegan sour cream and cheese as well.
• Spicy Option: Add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
• Brown Rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice for a more hearty, fiber-rich base.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts or thighs, making sure the chicken is well-coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge for more flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Rice

While the chicken is marinating, cook the rice. In a medium pot, combine the rice, water (or broth), salt, and cumin (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or regular skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is fully cooked. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Step 4: Prepare the Beans

While the chicken is cooking, heat the black beans in a small pot over medium heat. Stir in the cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the beans simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through. You can lightly mash them for a smoother texture or leave them whole, depending on your preference.

Step 5: Assemble the Burrito Bowls

In bowls, layer the cooked rice as the base. Top with the seasoned black beans, grilled chicken slices, and any additional toppings you like, such as guacamole, salsa, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the burrito bowls immediately, or store them in the refrigerator for meal prep. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached 165°F (75°C).
• Add More Veggies: To increase the veggie intake, feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the bowl.
• Make Extra Rice and Beans: You can easily double the rice and beans to have leftovers for later meals. Both store well in the fridge for a few days.
• Customizable Heat: If you like it spicy, add jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to retain its juices and keep it tender.

How to Serve

These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls can be served as a complete meal on their own. Pair them with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for extra crunch, or top with a generous scoop of fresh guacamole. If you prefer a lighter option, skip the cheese and sour cream, and enjoy the fresh and zesty flavors of the grilled chicken and beans.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover rice, beans, and chicken can be stored in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the rice and beans in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Freezing

For long-term storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken, rice, and beans in separate containers. The chicken will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, defrost overnight in the fridge and warm everything up before serving.

Reheating

Reheat leftover chicken, rice, and beans in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out. Reheat the chicken in a pan for a few minutes to maintain its juiciness.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken for grilled steak, ground turkey, or even shrimp.

2. Can I make this burrito bowl vegetarian?

Yes! Use grilled tofu, tempeh, or just extra beans and veggies to make the dish vegetarian.

3. Can I use canned rice or pre-cooked rice?

Yes, pre-cooked rice can be used to save time. Just heat it up and season it to your liking.

4. Can I add cheese to the burrito bowl?

Absolutely! Shredded cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, can be sprinkled on top for a melty, cheesy finish.

5. How can I make the bowl spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to give the bowl an extra spicy kick.

6. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works just as well, though it will take a little longer to cook.

7. Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook and prep all the components in advance, and then assemble the bowls when you’re ready to serve.

8. Can I add different beans to the bowl?

Yes, pinto beans, kidney beans, or even refried beans work great in place of black beans.

9. How can I make the rice more flavorful?

Use chicken broth or add spices like cumin, garlic powder, or chili powder to the rice for more flavor.

10. Can I make this burrito bowl into a wrap?

Yes, you can easily turn this bowl into a wrap by placing the ingredients in a tortilla and rolling it up.

Conclusion

These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans are the perfect combination of flavorful, healthy, and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep solution, or just something that’s bursting with bold flavors, this recipe has got you covered. With tender grilled chicken, seasoned rice, hearty beans, and a variety of fresh toppings, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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