Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls With Rice and Beans Recipe

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with rice and beans are a popular choice for a quick and nutritious meal. They combine flavors and textures that appeal to many people, making them a versatile option for different tastes. You can customize your bowl with fresh toppings to suit your preferences. If you want to learn how to make this delicious dish in under 20 minutes, keep going to discover the recipe and its benefits.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, grilled chicken burrito bowls are a fantastic choice. These bowls come together in 20 minutes or less, making them perfect for busy days. You can customize each bowl according to your tastes, which is great for picky eaters. The ingredients, like brown rice, black beans, and avocado, provide healthy options packed with fiber and lean protein. Additionally, the high fiber content of brown rice is beneficial for fullness and digestion. You can even use leftover chicken and microwavable rice to save time. Plus, these bowls are flexible enough to feed more people easily. With various toppings like cheese, sour cream, and hot sauce, everyone can create their perfect meal. It’s an easy, nutritious option you’ll love.

History

Grilled chicken burrito bowls have a rich history that traces back to ancient food practices. The use of tortillas to wrap foods goes as far back as the Maya civilization around 1500 B.C.

In Mexico, what you now call a burrito was originally known as a taco in many regions. The term “burrito” specifically emerged in the Mexican state of Guanajuato in the 19th century. Grilled chicken burrito bowls are now popular for their customizable options, allowing for a variety of ingredients that cater to different dietary preferences.

As it traveled to the United States, myths like that of Juan Méndez, who supposedly created the modern burrito, added to its lore.

Recipe

Ingredients

Boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
Brown rice, white rice, or instant rice
Black beans, drained and rinsed
Pico de gallo
Shredded cheese
Guacamole
Avocado
Lime wedges
Hot sauce
Romaine lettuce
Sliced jalapenos
Marinade: cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, lime juice, and EVOO

Cooking Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the marinade ingredients (cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, lime juice, and EVOO). Place the chicken in a sealable bag, pour the marinade over it, seal, and refrigerate for several hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Cook the Rice: Prepare the rice according to package instructions or using a rice cooker. If using brown rice, it typically takes 30-35 minutes to cook. For instant rice, follow the quick cooking instructions provided on the package.
Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill it for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Toppings: While the chicken is grilling, prepare the pico de gallo and other toppings. Dice tomatoes, onions, and cilantro for the pico de gallo, and set out shredded cheese, guacamole, sliced jalapenos, romaine lettuce, and lime wedges.
Assemble the Bowls: In each bowl, layer cooked rice, black beans, and romaine lettuce. Top with sliced grilled chicken and your choice of toppings, such as pico de gallo, guacamole, cheese, jalapenos, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Extra Tips

For a quicker meal, consider using leftover grilled chicken or instant rice to save time. Additionally, feel free to customize the bowls with your favorite ingredients and toppings, such as corn, different types of beans, or even sautéed vegetables. Burrito bowls are generally healthier than burritos due to the absence of tortilla carbs, making them a great choice for a nutritious meal. Meal prepping the ingredients in advance can also make it easier to assemble your burrito bowls on busy days.

Enjoy your flavorful and satisfying grilled chicken burrito bowls!

Final Thoughts

Creating grilled chicken burrito bowls isn’t only a delicious way to enjoy a meal, but it also offers you plenty of room to customize based on your preferences and dietary needs.

With a basic serving containing 484 calories, you can adjust ingredients to fit your health goals. Use grilled chicken, rice, and beans as a base, adding toppings like avocado or salsa. This dish is a good source of protein and fiber, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

This dish is quick to prepare, making it family-friendly and suitable for busy nights. You can easily swap ingredients, like using canned beans or pre-cooked rice, for convenience.

FAQ

Have you ever wondered how to make the perfect grilled chicken burrito bowl? Start by marinating your chicken in olive oil, lime juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes. For juicier results, use chicken thighs, but breasts are leaner.

Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through, then let it rest before slicing. Burrito bowls are quick family dinners, making them a convenient choice for busy weeknights.

Next, cook your rice according to the package instructions, and consider using canned black beans for convenience.

Assemble your bowl by layering greens, sliced chicken, rice, beans, and various toppings like avocado, salsa, or cheese. Customize it to your liking!

For a healthier option, try sprouted brown rice and add homemade pico de gallo. Enjoy your delicious burrito bowl!