Chicken Burrito Bowl

This Chicken Burrito Bowl (High Protein) is the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for busy days or when you want something comforting yet healthy. Imagine sitting down to a colorful bowl filled with seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and zesty rice. It’s a meal that not only fuels your body but also delights your taste buds. Whether you’re prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this bowl shines with its versatility. Plus, you can easily tailor it to fit dietary needs or personal preferences. Let’s walk through how to create this delicious dish together!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Chicken Burrito Bowl is a wholesome, delicious meal that combines a variety of flavors and textures. The marinated chicken is juicy and layered with spices, while the addition of cilantro lime rice brings freshness to every bite. With an array of colorful veggies, this bowl isn’t just visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. This recipe is easy to modify for dietary needs, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Burrito Bowl (High Protein)

Packed with protein from tender chicken thighs and fiber from beans and veggies, this Chicken Burrito Bowl promotes a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. It’s perfect for meal prep, lunches, or quick dinners. Each bite is a burst of flavor that leaves you feeling satisfied and energized.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for cooking)
• Juice of 1 lime (plus additional for guacamole)
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1/3 cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
• 1 cup water (or more, depending on the method used)
• Pinch of salt
• 1/3 cup cilantro, roughly chopped (for rice)
• 1/2 large onion, thinly sliced (2 cups/150 grams)
• 3 medium bell peppers, julienned (about 5 heaping cups/500 grams)
• 2 small avocados (200 grams)
• 1-2 tablespoons lime juice (for guacamole)
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, roughly chopped (for guacamole)
• 5 packed cups chopped romaine lettuce (270 grams)
• 1 – 15 ounce can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup pico de gallo
• 1 cup canned sweet corn, drained
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (about 2 ounces)
• Optional toppings: Salsa, sour cream/Greek yogurt, hot sauce, extra cilantro, lime wedges
• For serving: Tortilla chips, tortillas

Marinate the Chicken

Marinating adds a depth of flavor, making the chicken irresistibly tasty. Combine chicken thighs with olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, minced garlic, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large baking dish or resealable bag. Let it marinate for 1-2 hours. This step is crucial; the longer it sits, the deeper the taste.

Prepare the Rice

Now it’s time to cook the jasmine rice! You can follow the package instructions, but if you’re looking for convenience, the Instant Pot method yields fantastic results. If you’re using the stovetop, no worries; it works perfectly too. After cooking, combine the rice with chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt for extra flavor. This brightens the dish and enhances the overall experience.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, carefully add the marinated chicken, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 10 minutes, then flip and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink. Once done, remove it from heat, allow it to cool slightly, and slice into bite-sized pieces. The smell will be mouthwatering!

Sauté the Veggies

With the chicken resting, you can sauté the veggies. Using another large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions with a pinch of salt and pepper, sautéing for about 4-5 minutes. Next, add the julienned bell peppers, cover, and cook until they are soft—around 7-10 minutes—making sure to stir occasionally. The blend of flavors will fill your kitchen with warmth.

Make the Guacamole

In a medium bowl, mash two halved avocados with lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper until it reaches your desired consistency. Guacamole adds a creamy texture and a fresh kick that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.

Assemble the Burrito Bowls

It’s finally time to put everything together! In serving bowls, layer cooked rice, chopped romaine lettuce, black beans, sweet corn, marinated chicken, pico de gallo, guacamole, and shredded cheese. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle with lime juice and garnish with fresh cilantro. The colors and textures all coming together make for an Instagram-worthy meal!

Serving Suggestions

These vibrant burrito bowls shine even more when served with tortilla chips, tortillas, or additional toppings like salsa or Greek yogurt. Feel free to customize it, making it uniquely yours based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Variations

• Dairy-Free Version: Omit cheese or substitute with dairy-free options to keep it creamy.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh, but keep the same seasonings for that delicious flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the bowls for a little heat, enhancing the excitement with every bite.

Tips for Success

To ensure this Chicken Burrito Bowl (High Protein) turns out perfectly:
– Let the chicken marinate well for enhanced flavor.
– Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a couple of minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
– Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preference. The freshness makes all the difference.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers. The assembled bowls can be kept in the refrigerator for about three days. Remember to keep the guacamole separate to avoid browning.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
   Yes, you can use chicken breast; just adjust the cooking time slightly as the breast can dry out faster.

2. How can I make this recipe spicier?
   Consider adding jalapeños directly to the bowl or mixing spicy salsa with your pico de gallo for an added kick.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Absolutely! All ingredients as listed are gluten-free. Just double-check any packaged items for extra assurance.

4. Can I meal prep this Chicken Burrito Bowl?
   For sure! Preparing individual servings in advance allows you to grab and go easily throughout the week.

5. What can I substitute for jasmine rice?
   Brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice can serve as excellent alternatives.

This Chicken Burrito Bowl (High Protein) is not just a meal; it’s a colorful, flavorful journey that caters to everyone’s preferences. Enjoy trying out different versions and watch it become a regular favorite in your kitchen!

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