Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are a delightful and healthy spin on classic burritos. These vibrant bowls are packed with nutritious quinoa, tender grilled chicken, and dynamic flavors from fresh ingredients. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of seasoned chicken, hearty beans, corn, and refreshing avocado salsa makes for a satisfying and colorful dish that is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• Flavor-Packed: With a blend of spices and fresh ingredients, each bite bursts with flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Quinoa serves as a healthy base rich in protein and fiber, while the avocado salsa adds healthy fats and freshness.
• Versatile Meal: Customize your burrito bowl by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spice levels to suit your preferences.
• Great for Leftovers: These bowls store well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, having the right tools on hand simplifies the process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Meat mallet
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, enhancing its flavor.
• Medium saucepan: Necessary for cooking the quinoa evenly and effectively absorbing all the broth flavors.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature without overcooking.

Ingredients

Here you get everything you’d find in a burrito sans tortilla and with nutritious quinoa instead! It’s layered with seasoned, tender grilled chicken, hearty black beans, flavorful cheese, sweet corn and a refreshing avocado salsa. So many delicious flavors!

For the Quinoa

• 1 1/2 cups dry quinoa
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 Tbsp ancho chili powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil

For Toppings (optional)

• 1 2/3 cups frozen corn (warmed)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans (warmed along with liquid from can then drained)
• Mexican blend cheese or queso fresco
• Plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream

For the Avocado Salsa

• 3 medium roma tomatoes (diced)
• 1 1/2 medium avocados (diced)
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion (rinsed)
• 1 jalapeño (seeded for less heat if desired and minced)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro

How to Make Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan stir together quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat then cover, reduce heat to medium-low and allow to simmer for 15 minutes or until broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Meanwhile, heat a grill (or indoor grill, panini press, or cook over the stove in a grill pan) to 425 degrees F. In a small bowl whisk together ancho chili powder, cumin, garlic powder and 3/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. Pound chicken breasts to even out their thickness using the flat side of meat mallet. Brush both sides with the 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil then season both sides of chicken with the chili powder mixture (use all of it). Grill chicken until center registers 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer, about 4 minutes per side (or about 4 minutes total if using an indoor electric grill or panini press set at high heat). Transfer chicken to a plate, cover and let rest for 5 minutes then cut into pieces; season with more salt to taste if desired.

Step 3: Make Avocado Salsa

While the chicken is resting, prepare avocado salsa. In a medium mixing bowl gently toss together tomatoes, avocados, red onion, jalapeno, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble Burrito Bowls

To assemble burrito bowls, divide quinoa among serving bowls. Top with grilled chicken pieces, corn, black beans, cheese if desired, avocado salsa and Greek yogurt. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Serving Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa is all about showcasing the vibrant layers of flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Classic Bowl Presentation

• Use wide, shallow bowls to showcase the colorful layers.
• Start with a generous scoop of quinoa, then artfully arrange the grilled chicken and toppings on top.

Family-Style Platter

• Serve everything on a large platter for a communal feel.
• Offer individual bowls for guests to create their own customized burrito bowls.

Meal Prep Containers

• Pack into clear meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Layer quinoa, chicken, and toppings separately to maintain freshness.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with extra cilantro or lime wedges.
• This adds a pop of color and enhances the fresh flavor profile.

Pair with Corn Tortilla Chips

• Serve alongside crispy corn tortilla chips.
• Great for scooping up salsa or adding crunch to each bite.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

To make your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls truly shine, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Marinate the Chicken: For added flavor, marinate the chicken in spices or citrus juice before grilling.
• Control Heat Levels: Adjust jalapeño quantity based on your heat preference; remove seeds for milder flavor.
• Cook Quinoa Properly: Ensure quinoa is fluffy by rinsing it before cooking and letting it rest after boiling.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like black olives or pico de gallo for variety.
• Store Wisely: If making ahead, store components separately to keep them fresh longer.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Complement your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with these delicious side dishes that pair perfectly.

1. Cilantro Lime Rice
   A zesty rice option that complements the flavors in your burrito bowl beautifully.

2. Mexican Street Corn Salad
   Creamy and spicy corn salad loaded with fresh ingredients adds a delightful twist.

3. Guacamole
   Rich and creamy guacamole serves as an excellent dip or topping for added avocado goodness.

4. Pico de Gallo
   Fresh tomato salsa provides a punch of flavor, enhancing every bite of your bowl.

5. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrients while being simple to prepare.

6. Black Bean Salad
   A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and lime dressing fits right in.

7. Sliced Jalapeños
   For those who love heat, serve sliced jalapeños on the side for an extra kick!

8. Chips and Salsa
   Classic tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make an irresistible crunchy appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa turn out perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes.

• Skipping the Quinoa Rinse: Not rinsing quinoa can lead to a bitter taste. Always rinse quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove saponins.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Neglecting Flavor in the Salsa: A bland salsa can dull the dish. Make sure to season your avocado salsa well with lime juice, salt, and pepper for vibrant flavors.
• Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting chicken immediately after grilling affects juiciness. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
• Forgetting Optional Ingredients: Optional toppings enhance flavor and texture. Don’t skip cheese, Greek yogurt, or other toppings that add creaminess and depth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Keep components separate if possible, especially the salsa, for better freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze chicken and quinoa separately from other ingredients.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat bowls for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa.

What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use brown rice or cauliflower rice as an alternative if you prefer different grains or need a lower-carb option.

Can I make Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all components in advance and store them separately. Assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.

How do I customize my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?

Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or swap out proteins like turkey or grilled tofu for variety in your meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep since it stores well and maintains flavor after reheating.

Final Thoughts

These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa offer a fun twist on traditional burritos by using quinoa instead of tortillas. The layers of grilled chicken, black beans, corn, and vibrant avocado salsa create a deliciously healthy meal that you can customize according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its versatility!