Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl

If you’re looking for a delicious, nutritious meal that packs a punch of flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl is one of my go-to recipes when I need something quick yet satisfying. It’s inspired by those vibrant Chipotle bowls we all love, but made from scratch in your own kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is as customizable as it is delightful!

With its layers of fresh ingredients and zesty chicken, this bowl not only tastes amazing but also fills you up without weighing you down. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Healthy and filling: Packed with protein from chicken and beans, plus plenty of veggies, this bowl is both nourishing and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you love or have on hand—it’s hard to go wrong!
• Family-friendly: Everyone will enjoy building their own bowl with their favorite toppings.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time for lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl are simple and wholesome. They come together beautifully to create a colorful and flavorful dish!

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup avocado oil
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 3 chipotle chilis in adobo sauce (finely chopped, plus 1 ½ tablespoon adobo sauce)
• 1 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ pounds chicken breast (cut into strips)

For the Rice

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
• 1 ½ cups water
• ¼ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 1 lime (zested plus 2 tbsp fresh lime juice)
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro

For the Bowl Assembly

• 1 head romaine lettuce (chopped)
• 1 cup tomatoes (diced)
• 1 avocado (chopped)
• 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (rinsed and drained)
• ½ small red onion (chopped)

Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak it based on your preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try grilled shrimp or tofu for a delicious alternative.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, jalapeños, or even roasted sweet potatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Add more chipotle chilis or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if you like some heat.
• Try different grains: Substitute quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice for a different texture and flavor.

How to Make Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To start off, stir together the avocado oil, lime juice, chopped chipotle chilis, adobo sauce, garlic powder, and salt in a large bowl. This marinade not only adds incredible flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy while cooking. Add your chicken strips to the bowl and toss them well to coat. Cover it up and let it sit in the fridge—ideally overnight—so all those delicious flavors can meld together.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Once you’re ready to cook, heat up a large pan over medium-high heat. Remove your marinated chicken from the fridge and add it directly to the pan. Stir occasionally until fully cooked through—this should take about 5 minutes. Cooking it at medium-high heat gives that lovely sear while keeping everything tender.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

Now let’s tackle that rice! In a pot of boiling water, add your rinsed rice along with some salt. Bring everything back to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover it up and let it simmer until all the water is absorbed—about 15-18 minutes. Fluffing the rice with a fork after cooking helps separate those grains perfectly! Don’t forget to mix in lime zest, lime juice, cilantro, and adjust with more salt if needed.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

Finally, it’s time for assembly! Start by laying down a base of fluffy rice followed by crisp romaine lettuce in each serving bowl. Top generously with your cooked chicken strips alongside diced tomatoes, avocado chunks, thawed corn, black beans, and chopped red onions. The combination of colors makes this dish not just delicious but visually appealing too!

Enjoy every bite of your homemade Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl

Creating a delicious Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl can be a fun and satisfying experience! Here are some pro tips to help you nail the recipe every time.

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours helps infuse it with the rich flavors of lime and chipotle, making every bite more delicious.

• Rinse Your Rice: Rinsing your rice before cooking removes excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains that won’t clump together. This step is essential for achieving that perfect burrito bowl texture!

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even jalapeños can add extra color and crunch to your bowl.

• Make it Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the chicken and rice ahead of time and assemble your bowls when you’re ready to eat. Just store the components separately to keep everything fresh.

• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding different toppings like salsa, Greek yogurt, or dairy-free cheese to personalize each bowl. This not only enhances flavor but also gives your dish an appealing presentation.

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl

Serving a Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas to make your presentation pop and appeal to your guests’ taste buds.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lime Wedges: Offering lime wedges on the side allows everyone to squeeze fresh juice over their bowl, enhancing the flavors even further.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños are a fantastic garnish that adds spice and crunch.

Side Dishes

• Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole pairs perfectly with the protein bowl. It adds healthy fats and a deliciously smooth texture.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad made with corn, lime juice, cilantro, and spices complements the burrito bowl nicely while providing extra crunch.
• Chips and Salsa: A classic combination, crispy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa make for a fun appetizer or side that everyone loves.
• Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa brightens up any meal with its refreshing taste. It’s easy to make and offers a burst of flavor without overpowering the main dish.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this colorful and flavorful Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl! Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! Preparing it in advance makes busy weeknights a breeze, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious meal without the hassle.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken, rice, and toppings separately in airtight containers.
• Keep the chicken and rice in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• The veggies can be stored for 2-3 days but are best fresh for crunch.

Freezing

• To freeze, pack the chicken and rice in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; simply label them with the date.
• Avoid freezing fresh toppings like lettuce, avocado, or tomatoes.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken and rice overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through (about 2-3 minutes).
• Add fresh toppings just before serving for that crunchy freshness!

FAQs

Have questions about this Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I customize the Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl?

Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can swap out proteins, add different beans, or include your favorite vegetables. Get creative with your bowl!

How many calories are in a Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl?

A serving of this Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl contains approximately 761 calories. It’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it a filling choice!

Can I make this Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl vegan?

Yes! You can easily make it vegan by substituting chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh and using plant-based toppings like avocado and more veggies.

What’s the best way to serve a Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl?

Serve it fresh in a bowl layered with rice, greens, protein, and all your favorite toppings. You can also offer lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this vibrant Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that can brighten any day. Whether you’re prepping for busy weekdays or enjoying a leisurely dinner with friends, this recipe is sure to please. I can’t wait for you to give it a try—enjoy every delicious bite!

---

Dinner