Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls

These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a fantastic way to enjoy a burst of Tex-Mex flavors, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying family dinner night, or meal prepping for the week. With tender grilled chicken and vibrant toppings, they offer a delightful mix of textures and tastes that everyone will love. This recipe is not only simple but also customizable, allowing you to tailor each bowl to suit individual preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have these delicious bowls ready in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite is packed with flavor from spices and fresh ingredients like cilantro and lime.
• Customizable Options: Easily modify toppings or ingredients to cater to your taste or dietary needs.
• Great for Meal Prep: Perfect for preparing ahead of time; these bowls can be stored for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: A fun and interactive meal that encourages everyone to build their own burrito bowl.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most out of your cooking experience, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides that smoky char flavor essential for grilled chicken.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for cooking rice evenly without burning it.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining spices and marinating chicken effectively.

Ingredients

These easy burrito bowls are a simple way to add some Tex-Mex flavors to your grilling game!

For the Rice

• 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 it runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for about 18-20 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Add the chicken strips and coat them thoroughly in the mixture. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add marinated chicken strips in batches if necessary. Grill each side for about 4-5 minutes until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let rest.

Step 4: Prepare Toppings

While the chicken is grilling, slice the avocado, red bell pepper, red onion, grape tomatoes, and jalapenos into bite-sized pieces. Cut kernels off sweet corn ears.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Take your corn tortillas and warm them on the grill for about a minute on each side until slightly toasted. In each bowl, layer rice as a base followed by grilled chicken slices. Top with sweet corn kernels, avocado slices, salsa, sour cream, diced peppers, onions, tomatoes, jalapenos, and extra cilantro as desired.

Enjoy your delicious 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 tailored to your taste preferences. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Customizable Toppings

• Fresh Salsa: Add a burst of flavor with homemade or store-bought salsa.
• Guacamole: Creamy and rich, it complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some cheese on top for an extra layer of richness.
• Pickled Jalapenos: For those who love heat, these will spice things up!

Fresh Vegetables

• Diced Avocado: Add creamy avocado chunks for a smooth texture contrast.
• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brightens the bowl and adds freshness.
• Sliced Radishes: For a crunchy bite, add thinly sliced radishes.

Flavorful Sauces

• Lime Vinaigrette: Drizzle this tangy dressing for an extra zesty kick.
• Chipotle Sauce: A smoky sauce can enhance the Tex-Mex flavors of the bowl.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls

Creating perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is always a hit.

• Marinate the Chicken: Letting your chicken strips marinate enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in taste.
• Cook Rice Properly: Follow package instructions for rice; fluffy rice is key to a great bowl.
• Grill with Care: Avoid overcooking the chicken; aim for juicy, perfectly grilled pieces.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad with sweet corn, lime, and cotija cheese that complements burrito bowls well.
2. Black Bean Salad: A protein-rich salad made with black beans, bell peppers, and a zesty dressing.
3. Chips and Guacamole: Classic tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole make for a delightful snack before the main dish.
4. Spanish Rice: Flavored rice cooked with tomatoes and spices provides an extra savory element to your meal.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrients to your plate.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish adds a burst of citrus flavor that complements the burrito bowls beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken adds flavor and tenderness. Take time to let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes.
• Overcooking the rice: Overcooked rice can become mushy. Follow package instructions carefully and keep an eye on the cooking time.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using fresh ingredients, like vegetables and herbs, enhances flavor. Always choose the freshest produce available.
• Neglecting seasoning: A pinch of salt and spice can elevate your dish. Don’t forget to season each layer of your burrito bowl properly.
• Forgetting toppings: Toppings add texture and taste. Include items like avocado, salsa, and fresh herbs for a complete experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the toppings separate to maintain their freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning bowls individually for easy meal prep.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bowls in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls:

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute turkey, beef, or lamb for a different flavor profile while maintaining the same cooking method.

What can I add for extra flavor in my burrito bowl?

Consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika, or additional toppings such as diced jalapenos or lime wedges.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Swap out the chicken for grilled vegetables or beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, for a hearty vegetarian option.

Can I meal prep Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?

Absolutely! These bowls are perfect for meal prep. Just store components separately and assemble them when ready to eat.

What are some good side dishes with burrito bowls?

Pair your burrito bowls with simple sides like tortilla chips, a fresh salad, or guacamole for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them to suit your tastes by changing up proteins or adding your favorite toppings. Give this recipe a try and elevate your next meal with these flavorful burrito bowls!