Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a fantastic way to bring vibrant Tex-Mex flavors to your table. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, these bowls are not only delicious but also customizable. With juicy grilled chicken and fresh toppings, they promise a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: These burrito bowls come together in just 40 minutes, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile Serving: Customize your bowls with your favorite toppings, making it easy to please everyone at the table.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for prepping ahead of time, you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Grill or grill pan
- Rice cooker (optional)
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Ideal for achieving a nice sear on the chicken while locking in moisture.
- Grill or grill pan: Provides that authentic grilled flavor that enhances the overall taste of the burrito bowls.
- Knife and cutting board: 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 Base
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- ½ medium lime, juiced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 pinch salt
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
- 8 corn tortillas
- 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. This removes excess starch. Then, cook it according to package instructions. Once done, fluff it with a fork and mix in lime juice and cilantro.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
In a bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Add chicken strips and toss well to coat. Let this marinate for about 15 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken strips. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.
Step 4: Grill Corn & Prepare Toppings
While the chicken is grilling, place sweet corn on the grill until charred (about 10 minutes). Cut kernels off once cool. Dice red bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and jalapenos.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
To serve, place a scoop of rice at the bottom of each bowl. Top it with sliced grilled chicken followed by an array of toppings such as grilled corn, diced vegetables, salsa, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. The vibrant flavors of the ingredients make them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering.
Add Fresh Toppings
- Sliced Avocado – Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the spices.
- Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro enhances the flavor with its bright notes.
- Diced Jalapenos – For those who like extra heat, fresh jalapenos will spice things up.
Serve with Salsas
- Pico de Gallo – A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and lime juice adds crunch and flavor.
- Mango Salsa – Sweet mango salsa provides a fruity twist that complements the grilled chicken.
- Chipotle Salsa – Smoky chipotle salsa brings depth and a little kick to your burrito bowl.
Pair with Crunchy Elements
- Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips can be served on the side for dipping into salsa or sour cream.
- Corn Tortillas – Warm corn tortillas can be used to scoop up all the delicious ingredients.
Include Protein Variations
- Black Beans – Adding black beans boosts the protein content and offers a heartier texture.
- Grilled Shrimp – For seafood lovers, shrimp is a great alternative topping option.
How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
To create the best Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, consider these simple tips. They will help you elevate this dish to new heights.
- Marinate Chicken Overnight – Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to maximize flavor and nutrition.
- Cook Rice Properly – Ensure your rice is fluffy; avoid overcooking it to maintain texture.
- Grill at High Heat – Grill chicken on high heat for quicker cooking and better char marks, which add flavor.
- Layer Ingredients Thoughtfully – Start with rice as the base, followed by chicken and toppings for balanced flavors in every bite.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
Pairing side dishes with Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this Tex-Mex favorite.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Grilled corn slathered in cheese, lime, and spices adds an authentic touch.
- Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans provide a hearty side that balances the meal well.
- Guacamole – This creamy dip pairs perfectly with burrito bowls for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spanish Rice – Flavored rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes for an excellent accompaniment.
- Chips and Salsa – A classic duo that offers crunch and zest alongside your burrito bowls.
- Cabbage Slaw – A refreshing slaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the burrito bowl.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making grilled chicken burrito bowls can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- seasoning choices: Using too little seasoning can leave your bowls bland. Be generous with spices like chili powder and salt to enhance flavors.
- overcooking chicken: Overcooked chicken strips can become dry. Grill until just cooked through; a meat thermometer should read 165°F.
- ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale or old ingredients can affect taste. Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken for the best results.
- skipping marinating time: Not marinating the chicken long enough means missing out on flavor. Allow at least 30 minutes for the marinade to work its magic.
- rushing assembly: Throwing ingredients together without care can lead to uneven flavors. Take your time layering ingredients for a balanced bite.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- These bowls can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about grilled chicken burrito bowls that may help you make the perfect dish.
What ingredients are essential for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Essential ingredients include rice, chicken strips, fresh vegetables, and toppings like salsa and sour cream. These elements create a balanced bowl full of flavor.
Can I customize my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Absolutely! You can add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Try different proteins or add beans for extra fiber.
How do I make my burrito bowl spicier?
To increase heat, add more jalapenos or use spicy salsa. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper into your marinade for an extra kick.
How long will these burrito bowls last in the fridge?
Grilled chicken burrito bowls can last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
These grilled chicken burrito bowls are not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can mix and match ingredients based on your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and spices to create your perfect bowl!
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a delicious and customizable meal that brings vibrant Tex-Mex flavors to your dining table. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, these hearty bowls feature juicy grilled chicken, flavorful rice, and an array of fresh toppings.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 corn tortillas
- 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
Instructions
- Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil with kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Add chicken strips and marinate for 15 minutes.
- Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
- Grill sweet corn until charred (about 10 minutes), then cut kernels off once cool. Dice remaining vegetables.
- Assemble the bowls by layering rice at the bottom followed by grilled chicken and desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (400g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
