Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are the perfect dish to elevate any meal, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. Packed with flavor and fresh ingredients, these burrito bowls combine tender grilled chicken with vibrant veggies and zesty toppings. They are not only delicious but also customizable, making them suitable for different dietary preferences. Enjoy the Tex-Mex flair that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 40 minutes, you can whip up these bowls easily after a long day.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite bursts with flavors from spices and fresh vegetables, ensuring a delightful taste experience.
- Customizable Options: You can adjust ingredients based on your preferences, making it versatile for everyone at the table.
- Healthy Meal Choice: Packed with lean protein and fresh produce, these burrito bowls offer a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Great for prepping ahead of time, these bowls are ideal for busy weeks when you need quick meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Serving bowls
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky char on the chicken and corn.
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking rice perfectly without sticking or burning.
- Knife: A sharp knife is key for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing your ingredients accurately.
Ingredients
To create mouthwatering Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, gather the following ingredients:
For the Rice Base
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- ½ medium lime (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 pinch salt
For the Tortillas and Chicken
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 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 Toppings and Extras
- 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 the water runs clear. Then:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt.
2. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
3. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
4. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
While the rice is cooking, prepare the marinade for the chicken:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and oregano.
2. Add chicken strips to the bowl and coat well in the marinade.
3. Let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Now it’s time to grill your marinated chicken:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken strips for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
3. Remove from grill and let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Grill the Corn & Tortillas
Next up is grilling corn and tortillas:
1. Place corn on the grill; turn occasionally until charred (about 10 minutes).
2. Wrap corn in foil after grilling if desired for easier handling.
3. Briefly grill tortillas until warm and slightly crispy.
Step 5: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls
Finally, it’s time to bring everything together:
1. In serving bowls, layer cooked rice as your base.
2. Top with grilled chicken pieces, sliced avocado, grilled corn kernels cut off cob, chopped bell pepper, red onion slices, grape tomatoes halved, jalapenos sliced as desired.
3. Finish with salsa dollops and sour cream on top.
4. Garnish each bowl with fresh cilantro before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are not just a meal; they’re a vibrant and customizable experience. You can serve them in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.
Bowl with Extra Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop adds creaminess that balances the spice.
- Guacamole: Fresh avocado mixed with lime and salt offers a rich flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some cheese on top for added texture and taste.
Make it Spicy
- Jalapenos: Slice fresh jalapenos for an extra kick of heat.
- Hot Salsa: Swap regular salsa for a spicier variety to elevate the dish.
- Chili Flakes: Sprinkle chili flakes over the top for an immediate flavor boost.
Serve with Tortilla Chips
- Crunchy Complement: Add tortilla chips on the side for a crunchy contrast.
- Dipping Options: Pair chips with salsa or guacamole for dipping fun.
Add Fresh Greens
- Lettuce Bed: Start with a base of shredded lettuce for added freshness.
- Spinach or Kale: Incorporate greens for a nutrient boost while keeping it light.
How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
To make your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls truly outstanding, consider these simple tips.
- Marinade: Marinate chicken strips in olive oil, lime juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes before grilling to infuse intense flavors.
- Cook Corn Right: Grill corn until slightly charred; this enhances sweetness and adds smokiness to your bowls.
- Layer Wisely: Start with rice, then layer proteins, vegetables, and toppings to create visual appeal and balanced flavors.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs; they provide vibrant colors and superior taste compared to canned options.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Complement your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with these delicious side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, and spices that pairs beautifully with burritos.
- Black Bean Salad: This protein-packed salad combines black beans, corn, tomatoes, and cilantro in a zesty dressing.
- Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips is always a hit at gatherings.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime juice and fresh cilantro is a perfect match for the bold flavors of burrito bowls.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice create a bright topping or side dish full of flavor.
- Refried Beans: Smooth refried beans add richness and are great as both a side or part of the bowl itself.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, there are a few common mistakes that can detract from the deliciousness of your dish. Here are some tips to ensure your burrito bowls turn out fantastic.
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Skipping Marination: Not marinating the chicken strips can result in bland flavors. Always marinate with olive oil and spices for at least 30 minutes before grilling to enhance the taste.
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Overcooking Rice: Cooking rice for too long can lead to mushy grains. Follow package instructions closely and consider rinsing the rice beforehand for better texture.
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Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables can affect freshness. Always select ripe avocados, firm tomatoes, and crisp bell peppers for a vibrant bowl.
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Using Too Much Salt: Adding excess salt can overpower other flavors. Season gradually and taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
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Forgetting Toppings: Skipping toppings like salsa or sour cream can make your bowl feel incomplete. Don’t forget these elements; they add flavor and texture!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short increments, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water, cover, and stir frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls that may help you get the most out of this recipe.
Can I use other proteins in my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, pork, tofu, or even beans for a vegetarian option.
How do I customize my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like black beans, cheese, or different veggies based on your taste preferences!
What can I serve with Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Consider pairing them with tortilla chips, guacamole, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal experience.
Are Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls healthy?
They can be quite healthy! With lean protein and fresh vegetables, they provide balanced nutrition while being delicious.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various ingredients to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine!
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a vibrant and satisfying meal that brings the flavors of Tex-Mex right to your table. This dish features tender grilled chicken served over a fluffy rice base, topped with fresh vegetables, zesty sauces, and customizable toppings. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends, these bowls are not only delicious but also quick to prepare in just 40 minutes. Enjoy the ability to tailor each bowl to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a hit with everyone.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken strips
- 8 corn tortillas
- Fresh vegetables (avocado, corn, bell pepper, red onion, grape tomatoes)
- Olive oil and spices (chili powder, garlic powder, oregano)
Instructions
- Cook the rice: Rinse rice until water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine rice with 3 cups water and a pinch of salt. Boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir in lime juice and cilantro.
- Marinate the chicken: Mix olive oil and spices in a bowl, add chicken strips, and let marinate for 10-15 minutes.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat grill/pan to medium-high heat and grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
- Grill corn and tortillas: Grill corn until charred; warm tortillas briefly on the grill.
- Assemble bowls: Layer rice, chicken, veggies, and toppings in serving bowls.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 450g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
