Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a delightful way to enjoy Tex-Mex flavors while gathering with friends or family. Perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, these bowls offer a satisfying mix of grilled chicken and fresh toppings. The combination of vibrant ingredients and smoky spices makes this dish truly stand out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
- Flavor Explosion: Enjoy a delicious blend of spices that bring your taste buds to life.
- Customizable: Modify toppings and ingredients to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, these bowls are nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare ahead for easy lunches throughout the week, making healthy eating effortless.
Tools and Preparation
To make the grilling process smooth and enjoyable, gather your essential tools before you begin. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Rice cooker or pot
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides even cooking and adds that irresistible charred flavor to the chicken.
- Rice cooker or pot: Ensures perfectly cooked rice every time without the hassle.
- Mixing bowl: Great for combining spices and marinating chicken efficiently.
- Cutting board & sharp knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
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 rice under cold water until it runs clear. Then, cook it according to package instructions, adding salt and lime juice once it’s done. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Add the chicken strips to this mixture. Toss well to ensure all pieces are coated in seasoning. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken strips on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.
Step 4: Grill Corn and Prepare Toppings
While the chicken cooks, grill the sweet corn until slightly charred—about 10 minutes total. Cut off kernels once cooled. Dice avocado, red bell pepper, red onion, grape tomatoes, and jalapenos as desired.
Step 5: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls
In each bowl, layer cooked rice as a base. Top with sliced grilled chicken, grilled corn kernels, diced veggies, avocado slices, salsa, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
Fresh Toppings
- Avocado slices – Creamy and rich, avocado adds a delightful texture.
- Chopped cilantro – Fresh cilantro brightens up the flavors of your burrito bowl.
- Salsa verde – A tangy option that adds zest and freshness.
Flavorful Sides
- Corn salsa – Sweet corn mixed with tomatoes and lime juice complements the chicken.
- Black beans – Packed with protein, black beans can make your bowl heartier.
- Shredded cheese – A sprinkle of cheese adds creaminess and flavor.
Dressings and Sauces
- Chipotle sauce – For those who like it spicy, this sauce brings a smoky kick.
- Lime crema – A zesty drizzle that enhances the overall taste of the bowl.
How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
To achieve the best Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, focus on a few key elements. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Marinate the chicken – Let the chicken strips soak in olive oil, lime juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Cook rice properly – Follow package instructions for fluffy rice; consider adding a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
- Grill veggies – Lightly grill bell peppers and corn for added sweetness and smokiness.
- Serve fresh ingredients – Use ripe avocados and fresh tomatoes for the best taste and presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls can enhance the meal. Here are some options that complement these flavorful bowls perfectly.
- Mexican Street Corn – Grilled corn topped with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime for a refreshing side.
- Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip that’s perfect for scooping with tortilla chips or adding directly to your bowl.
- Pico de Gallo – A fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, and lime juice; great for added crunch.
- Refried Beans – A creamy bean option that pairs well with rice and chicken; heat them up before serving.
- Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served alongside a zesty salsa offer a satisfying texture contrast.
- Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and lime juice enhances the flavors of the burrito bowls.
- Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients to your meal.
- Tortilla Chips with Cheese Dip – Melted cheese dip served warm is always a crowd-pleaser.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- Skipping marination: Not marinating the chicken can result in bland flavors. A simple marinade with olive oil, spices, and lime juice enhances taste.
- Overcooking rice: Cooking rice until mushy can ruin the texture of the burrito bowl. Follow package instructions and keep an eye on it while cooking.
- Ignoring toppings: Forgetting fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro can make your burrito bowls less appealing. Always include vibrant toppings for extra flavor and color.
- Using stale tortillas: Stale tortillas result in an unappetizing experience. Ensure you use fresh tortillas or heat them properly before serving.
- Not balancing flavors: Overloading on spicy ingredients without balancing with cooling elements like sour cream can overwhelm the palate. Aim for a mix of spicy and creamy flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls in airtight containers.
- They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- You can freeze these burrito bowls for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between to ensure even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls.
Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. Just note that brown rice takes longer to cook.
How do I customize my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins. Options like black beans, corn, or even shrimp work well!
Are Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls healthy?
Absolutely! These bowls are packed with protein from chicken and fiber from vegetables, making them a nutritious meal choice.
What should I serve with Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Pair these bowls with tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete Tex-Mex feast!
Final Thoughts
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and ingredients to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that brings the flavors of Tex-Mex right into your home!
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are the perfect combination of flavor and convenience, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or fun gatherings. This easy-to-follow recipe features juicy grilled chicken tossed in smoky spices, served over a bed of fluffy rice, and topped with vibrant fresh ingredients. Not only do these bowls deliver a satisfying Tex-Mex experience, but they are also fully customizable, allowing you to tailor each bowl to your taste preferences. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick dinner solution, these burrito bowls are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Corn tortillas
- Fresh vegetables (avocado, red bell pepper, grape tomatoes)
- Salsa and sour cream for topping
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water and cook according to package instructions. Stir in lime juice and salt once done.
- Mix olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and oregano in a bowl. Add chicken and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Grill marinated chicken on medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F).
- Grill sweet corn until charred; cut off kernels when cool. Dice other toppings as desired.
- In bowls, layer rice followed by grilled chicken, corn, diced veggies, avocado slices, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (450g)
- Calories: 599
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 107mg
