Name: Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484003H11M35S
Total time: PT-484003H11M35S
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: Grilled Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 tbsp Kosher Salt (Diamond Crystal); 2 tsp Dried Oregano; 2 tsp Chili Powder; 1.5 tsp Ground Cumin; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Smoked Paprika; ½ tsp Ground Coriander; ½ tsp Onion Powder; ½ tsp Ground Black Pepper; 2.5 tsp oil; 1 tsp lime juice (from 1 lime); 4 cups cooked rice (whichever kind you prefer); 4 to 6 cooked chicken thighs; 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup pico de gallo (can also use salsa or chopped tomatoes); ½ cup shredded cheese (use any type you prefer – Mexican blend, cotija, queso fresco, etc.); ¼ to ½ cup guacamole (can also use plain avocado); Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans are a perfect meal for any occasion, combining the delicious flavors of seasoned grilled chicken with the heartiness of rice, beans, and fresh toppings. This dish offers a delightful combination of savory, smoky, and tangy flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.

The grilled chicken is marinated with a vibrant blend of spices, including cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder, which adds depth and warmth to each bite. Paired with fluffy rice, creamy black beans, and your favorite toppings like pico de gallo, cheese, and guacamole, this burrito bowl is both satisfying and versatile. You can easily customize the toppings to suit your preferences, whether you prefer mild or spicy, and whether you like it with cheese or without.

The best part about these burrito bowls is their flexibility. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing meal prep for the week, these bowls are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavor-Packed Chicken

The grilled chicken is seasoned with a perfect blend of spices, creating a smoky and savory flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

2. Customizable Toppings

You can tailor the toppings to your liking, adding more or less of ingredients like guacamole, pico de gallo, and cheese, making each bowl your own.

3. Healthy and Balanced

This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients like lean chicken, fiber-rich black beans, and whole-grain rice, making it a balanced meal.

4. Quick and Easy

With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking, this dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick dinner or lunch.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

These burrito bowls are perfect for meal prepping. Simply prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble your bowls throughout the week for quick, satisfying meals.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Kosher salt
Dried oregano
Chili powder

Ground cumin
Garlic powder
Smoked paprika

Ground coriander
Onion powder
Ground black pepper

Oil
Lime juice

For the Burrito Bowls

Cooked rice (any variety you prefer)

Cooked chicken thighs
Canned black beans (rinsed and drained)
Pico de gallo (or salsa or chopped tomatoes)

Shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cotija, queso fresco, etc.)
Guacamole (or plain avocado)
Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Variations

1. Add Grilled Vegetables

For extra flavor and texture, add grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions to the burrito bowls.

2. Spicy Kick

For a spicy version, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce over the top.

3. Use Brown Rice

Swap the white rice for brown rice for a heartier, whole-grain option.

4. Vegan Option

For a vegan version, replace the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh and top with dairy-free cheese or avocado.

5. Add Corn

Adding fresh or roasted corn to your burrito bowls will add sweetness and crunch that complements the other ingredients.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together the Kosher salt, dried oregano, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground coriander, onion powder, and ground black pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Drizzle the chicken with oil and lime juice, and let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they are fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

While the chicken is grilling, cook your rice according to package instructions. You can use white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative.

Step 4: Assemble the Burrito Bowls

In each bowl, start with a base of cooked rice. Layer on a serving of sliced grilled chicken, followed by black beans, pico de gallo, shredded cheese, and guacamole. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the burrito bowls immediately, or prepare them ahead of time for meal prep. Add any extra toppings like jalapeños, corn, or salsa for additional flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor

For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, to allow the spices to penetrate the meat.

2. Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor

If you prefer, you can use bone-in chicken thighs for even more flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time.

3. Customize Your Rice

You can make the rice more flavorful by cooking it in chicken broth instead of water. You can also stir in some lime juice or cilantro for extra zest.

4. Grill the Chicken with the Skin On

For even more flavor, you can grill the chicken with the skin on and remove it after cooking. The skin adds a crispy texture and extra flavor.

5. Toppings Make the Dish

Feel free to load your burrito bowls with a variety of toppings like jalapeños, roasted corn, sour cream, or your favorite salsa to make each bowl your own.

How to Serve

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are perfect on their own as a filling, complete meal. You can serve them alongside a simple green salad or some crispy tortilla chips for a more hearty meal. These bowls also make great party food—set up a burrito bowl bar where guests can assemble their own bowls with their choice of ingredients.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover grilled chicken and rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the components separate to avoid sogginess, and reassemble the bowls when ready to eat.

Freezing

To freeze, store the grilled chicken and rice separately in freezer-safe containers. The rice will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months, and the chicken will last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, simply heat the rice and chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little splash of water or broth to keep everything moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

2. Can I use a slow cooker for the chicken?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker. Just add the marinated chicken and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender.

3. Can I use a different kind of rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap the jasmine rice for brown rice, white rice, or even quinoa if you prefer.

4. Can I use other beans instead of black beans?

Yes, pinto beans or kidney beans would be great substitutes for black beans.

5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

6. How can I make the bowls spicier?

Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili flakes to the burrito bowls to spice things up.

7. Can I make these bowls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time and assemble the bowls just before serving.

8. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, grilled peppers, onions, corn, or sautéed spinach would all be excellent additions.

9. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese option.

10. How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans are a flavorful, customizable, and easy-to-make meal that the whole family will enjoy. With tender grilled chicken, fluffy rice, hearty black beans, and a variety of fresh toppings, these burrito bowls offer a delicious and satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep solution, these bowls are sure to hit the spot every time.