Delicious & easy chicken burrito bowl
Weeknight dinners have never been easier with this chicken burrito bowl. They are a true game changer, combining tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and zesty spices all cooked in one pan to create a medley of satisfying flavors. With this simple recipe, you can prepare a wholesome meal in under 30 minutes, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your evening.
The reason you should try this recipe
The chicken burrito bowl offers a perfect solution for busy weeknights when time is short but flavor is key. In just 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal featuring seasoned chicken, rice, beans, and vibrant veggies all cooked in one pan.
This chicken recipe not only simplifies your dinner routine but also delivers rich, balanced nutrition and robust flavor, making it a staple in any home. Grab your skillet, start cooking tonight, and share your unique twist with friends and family to spread the joy of a quick, delicious meal.
Ingredients what you ‘ll need for this chicken burrito bowl
Below is a list of ingredients with full sentences explaining each component:
Chicken: You will need 1 lb (450g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, which are chosen for their superior tenderness and flavor.
Rice: Use 1 cup of long-grain white rice or brown rice as a hearty base; alternatively, you may substitute with quinoa if preferred.
Beans: Incorporate 1 can (15 oz) of black beans that have been rinsed and drained, which add protein and a creamy texture.
Vegetables: Include 1 medium onion, diced; 1 diced bell pepper (red or green) for vibrant color and flavor; and 1 cup of corn, either canned or frozen.
Olive Oil: Use 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil to sauté and bring out the flavors of the dish.
Spices: Add 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder along with salt and pepper to taste for a robust and aromatic kick.
Acid: Squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the dish to provide a bright, tangy finish.
Herbs: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro to add a fresh herbal note.
Optional Toppings: You can top the dish with avocado, cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños to suit your taste preferences.
Instructions for this chicken recipe
Our comprehensive, step-by-step cooking directions will guide you through every stage of the recipe.
Preparing your ingredients
Dice the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces and season it with salt, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Next, chop your vegetables by thinly slicing the bell peppers and onions, and use the corn straight from the can or from the freezer as needed.
Cook the chicken
In a large skillet, begin by heating a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the pan and cook it until it is fully done and turns a beautiful golden brown, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
Add vegetables and rice
After the chicken is fully cooked, add the chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for an additional 3-4 minutes until they become tender. Then, mix in the rice, black beans, and corn, stirring well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly combined.
Cook gently on low heat
Add the required amount of water or chicken broth—typically 1.5 times the volume of the rice—and heat the mixture until it reaches a boil. Then, lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
Final step
Once the rice is cooked, use a fork to fluff it and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top. Then, garnish it with chopped cilantro and any additional toppings you prefer.
More chicken recipes for lunch or dinner
- Chicken mushroom fettuccine alfredo
- Italian chicken parm quesadilla
- Grilled chicken avocado salad
- Flavor-packed street corn chicken rice bowl
- Easy sticky chicken rice bowls
Helpful tips
The versatility of the one pan chicken burrito bowl is truly its best feature. Here are some ideas to customize it to your liking:
Protein Options: You might experiment by replacing chicken with beef, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein such as tempeh or tofu to create a vegetarian version.
Toppings Galore: You can enhance the dish by adding toppings like guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese, or even jalapeños, which will add extra layers of flavor.
Make It Vegan: If you prefer a vegan alternative, you may substitute the chicken with jackfruit or chickpeas and simply omit the cheese for a delicious plant-based option.
Serving and stroing the leftovers of this chicken burrito bowl
This burrito bowl is delicious on its own, but there are several ways to enhance your meal. You can serve it with a simple side salad or with tortilla chips and salsa to add extra crunch.
A refreshing limeade or iced tea pairs wonderfully with the dish. For a visually appealing presentation, use colorful bowls and garnish with fresh ingredients to create an Instagram-worthy display.
If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until thoroughly warmed.