Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans Recipe

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans is a flavorful, nutritious, and customizable dish that brings together tender grilled chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, hearty beans, and fresh toppings. The bowl concept is a popular choice for many because it allows everyone to build their meal according to their preferences while ensuring a balanced combination of proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is versatile and easy to prepare.

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season the marinade with salt and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the rice and stir to coat it in the oil, allowing it to toast slightly for about 2 minutes.
2. Add the water (or chicken broth), salt, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder (if using) to the rice. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid. Let the rice cook for about 15-18 minutes for white rice (or 40 minutes for brown rice), until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow it to steam. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 3: Prepare the Beans

1. In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the drained black beans, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat the beans through for about 5 minutes.
2. Once the beans are heated, remove the skillet from the heat and set the beans aside.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a grill, oil the grates with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is fully cooked through.
3. Once grilled, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

Step 5: Prepare the Toppings

1. While the chicken is resting, prepare the toppings. In a small bowl, toss the corn with a pinch of salt and pepper. If using fresh corn, you can grill or sauté it in a pan with a little bit of olive oil for extra flavor.
2. Dice the avocado and slice the cherry tomatoes and red onion.
3. Chop the cilantro and set it aside for garnish.

Step 6: Assemble the Burrito Bowls

1. Start by placing a generous scoop of rice at the bottom of each bowl.
2. Add a portion of the black beans on one side of the rice.
3. Place the grilled chicken slices on the other side of the rice.
4. Add a scoop of corn, followed by a portion of the diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
5. Top the bowl with a handful of shredded lettuce, a sprinkle of cheese, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for a fresh burst of citrus.

Tips and Variations

1. Chicken Variations

While grilled chicken is the traditional protein in burrito bowls, you can easily swap it out for other options:

• Grilled Steak: Use flank steak or skirt steak for a hearty alternative to chicken.
• Ground Turkey or Beef: For a different texture, season ground turkey or beef with similar spices, then brown it in a skillet.
• Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can be marinated in the same way as chicken for a lighter, seafood twist.
• Tofu or Tempeh: For a plant-based option, marinate tofu or tempeh and grill it for a vegetarian alternative.

2. Rice Variations

If you prefer a different type of rice or want to make it even healthier, try:

• Brown rice: A great whole-grain option that adds more fiber and nutrients.
• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb version, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice. It’s light, healthy, and soaks up all the delicious flavors from the toppings.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Add a handful of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to the rice after cooking for extra flavor.

3. Bean Variations

While black beans are classic in burrito bowls, feel free to experiment with other beans:

• Pinto Beans: A popular alternative with a creamy texture.
• Refried Beans: For a rich, comforting version, top the rice with refried beans instead of whole beans.
• Chickpeas: Try using roasted chickpeas for a crunchy, protein-packed twist.

4. Veggie Add-ins

• Sautéed Bell Peppers and Onions: You can grill or sauté peppers and onions with a little olive oil and seasoning for a tasty topping.
• Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini slices add a fresh and flavorful element to the bowl.
• Pickled Jalapeños: If you like a little heat, add pickled jalapeños for an extra layer of spice.

Health Benefits

This Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl is a healthy and balanced meal, as it provides:

• Lean protein: The grilled chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build muscle and keep you feeling full longer.
• Whole grains: The rice provides a healthy source of carbohydrates that fuel your body, especially when you choose brown rice or cauliflower rice.
• Fiber: Beans are packed with fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
• Healthy fats: Avocado adds a dose of healthy fats, which are important for heart health and satiety.

Meal Prep Tips

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are perfect for meal prep! Here’s how you can make them ahead of time:

• Cook everything in bulk: Grill the chicken, cook the rice, and prepare the beans in larger batches to save time.
• Store in separate containers: For meal prepping, store the rice, beans, chicken, and toppings in separate containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble the bowls by adding the components together.
• Fresh toppings: Add the fresh toppings like avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro when serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
• Reheat the bowls: Reheat the rice and beans in the microwave or on the stovetop before assembling the bowl.

Creative Ways to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls

While Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are already a satisfying and complete meal, there are several creative ways to enhance the experience or give the dish a unique twist. Here are a few fun serving ideas to elevate your burrito bowl experience:

1. Burrito Bowl Bar

Hosting a get-together or family meal? Set up a Burrito Bowl Bar where everyone can customize their own bowls with different toppings, proteins, and sauces. This is a fun, interactive meal for gatherings or meal prepping.

Set-Up Suggestions:

• Proteins: Offer a variety of proteins such as grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, tofu, or even pulled pork for variety.
• Grains: Provide options like white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for low-carb eaters.
• Beans: Offer black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans for texture variation.
• Toppings: Set out bowls of guacamole, sour cream, cheese, salsa, pickled jalapeños, corn, and fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions.
• Extras: Add lime wedges, tortilla chips, and hot sauces for extra flavor and crunch.

This bar-style meal works great for parties, family dinners, or even casual weeknight meals, allowing everyone to pick and choose their favorite toppings and sides.

2. Add a Crunch Factor

Add a bit of crunch to your burrito bowls with tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips. Simply bake or fry some tortilla strips until crispy, or use store-bought chips. The added crunch will complement the tender chicken and rice, providing a satisfying contrast in textures.

• Tortilla Strips: To make homemade tortilla strips, cut corn tortillas into strips, toss with a little olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• Crushed Chips: For an even simpler option, just crush your favorite tortilla chips and sprinkle them on top for a quick and tasty addition.

3. Serve with a Side of Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

For a more decadent side dish, try serving Mexican Street Corn (Elote) alongside your burrito bowls. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese, making it the perfect complement to the smoky grilled chicken and rice.

• Recipe for Mexican Street Corn: Grill corn cobs and, once cooked, brush with a mixture of mayonnaise, chili powder, lime juice, and crumbled cotija cheese. You can also sprinkle some fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Dietary Variations

While Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a versatile dish, you may have guests or family members with specific dietary restrictions or preferences. Fortunately, this recipe can be easily adapted to fit various dietary needs. Here are a few ideas for adapting the recipe:

1. Low-Carb / Keto

For those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, you can make several modifications to reduce the carbohydrate content while still enjoying a delicious burrito bowl.

• Rice: Swap regular rice for cauliflower rice. Cauliflower rice has a similar texture but contains far fewer carbs, making it the perfect base for a keto-friendly bowl.
• Beans: Beans are relatively high in carbs, so for a low-carb option, you can either reduce the amount of beans or skip them altogether. Add extra grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for bulk and nutrition.
• Toppings: Stick to low-carb toppings like avocado, cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

2. Vegetarian / Vegan

For a vegetarian or vegan variation, replace the chicken with plant-based proteins.

• Vegan Protein Options: Replace the grilled chicken with tofu, tempeh, or jackfruit for a satisfying plant-based alternative. You can marinate tofu or tempeh in the same spices as the chicken, then grill or pan-sear it for a delicious flavor.
• Beans: Beans are an excellent plant-based protein source, so feel free to use more beans in your bowl. Try black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans for extra fiber and protein.
• Dairy-Free Toppings: Omit the cheese and sour cream for a fully vegan option. You can substitute with vegan sour cream, cashew cheese, or guacamole for a creamy texture.

3. Gluten-Free

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free rice and ensure that your toppings (like salsa and sour cream) are free from gluten-containing ingredients. If you plan to serve it with tortilla chips or other sides, simply ensure those are labeled gluten-free.

4. Dairy-Free

For those who are dairy-sensitive or following a dairy-free diet, there are many great substitutions:

• Cheese: Opt for dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese entirely.
• Sour Cream: Use vegan sour cream or guacamole for added creaminess.
• Toppings: Fresh toppings like avocado, lime, and salsa are naturally dairy-free and add plenty of flavor to the bowl.

Meal Prep Tips for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls make excellent meal prep options. By preparing ingredients in advance, you can enjoy a quick, healthy lunch or dinner throughout the week. Here’s how you can prep this meal ahead of time:

1. Grilled Chicken:

• Cook in bulk: Grill several chicken breasts at once and slice them up. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze individual portions for later use.
• Use the same marinade: Marinate the chicken the night before to allow the flavors to fully develop.

2. Rice and Beans:

• Rice: Cook a large batch of rice (either white, brown, or cauliflower rice). Once cooled, divide the rice into individual portions in meal prep containers.
• Beans: Heat a large batch of beans and divide them into containers as well. You can also add the spices to the beans in bulk to make this step easier.

3. Vegetables and Toppings:

• Chop veggies: Pre-chop your vegetables, such as tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, and store them in separate containers. You can also prepare guacamole or salsa ahead of time.
• Store toppings separately: Keep toppings like avocado, cheese, and sour cream in separate containers and add them to the bowl right before serving to maintain freshness.

4. Assemble Later:

When it’s time to eat, simply warm the rice and beans in the microwave or on the stove. Then, top with grilled chicken and any of your prepared toppings. This quick assembly will save you a lot of time on busy weekdays.

Nutritional Benefits

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced. Here’s a breakdown of some key nutrients in this meal:

Protein

• Chicken: Provides a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. It helps keep you full and satisfied for longer.
• Beans: Both black beans and pinto beans are excellent sources of plant-based protein and fiber, helping with digestion and blood sugar regulation.

Fiber

• Rice: Brown rice, in particular, offers a good source of fiber, which supports digestive health and keeps you feeling fuller longer.
• Beans: High in fiber, beans help maintain steady energy levels and provide essential nutrients like iron and folate.

Healthy Fats

• Avocado: Adds a creamy texture while providing heart-healthy fats, which are beneficial for reducing cholesterol levels and supporting brain health.
• Olive Oil: Used in marinating and cooking, olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which have been linked to improved cardiovascular health.

Vitamins and Minerals

• Lime: High in vitamin C, lime helps boost the immune system and supports skin health.
• Cilantro: Packed with antioxidants, cilantro can help detoxify the body and promote digestive health.
• Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, tomatoes help protect against oxidative damage and promote heart health.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans are the perfect combination of flavor, nutrition, and versatility. Whether you’re enjoying them on a busy weeknight, meal prepping for the week, or serving them to a group of friends and family, this recipe can be tailored to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs.

With a base of perfectly grilled chicken, hearty rice, and protein-packed beans, plus fresh toppings and customizable options, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you prefer it with the classic toppings or with unique twists, you have endless possibilities for making this dish your own.

Enjoy this vibrant, satisfying meal that’s not only healthy and filling but also full of bold flavors. Get creative with your toppings, proteins, and sauces, and make it the ultimate burrito bowl experience for your taste buds!

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans are a flavorful, nutritious, and customizable dish that works for any occasion. This recipe combines tender grilled chicken, savory rice, hearty beans, and fresh toppings to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or serving at gatherings. The versatility of this dish makes it easy to adjust to dietary preferences, whether you prefer a more traditional option or a plant-based twist.

By following this recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and filling burrito bowl that’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Add your favorite toppings, switch up the proteins, or try different types of rice or beans to make this dish your own!

Enjoy building your perfect burrito bowl and dig into this tasty and healthy meal!

Yield: 4

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans Recipe

Print

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice and Beans is a flavorful, nutritious, and customizable dish that brings together tender grilled chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, hearty beans, and fresh toppings. The bowl concept is a popular choice for many because it allows everyone to build their meal according to their preferences while ensuring a balanced combination of proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is versatile and easy to prepare.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Grilled Chicken:
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Rice:
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• For the Beans:
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Toppings (optional):
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 avocado, sliced
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
• Salsa or hot sauce (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to marinate.
2. Cook the Rice:
   While the chicken marinates, rinse the rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring the water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Add the rice, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Stir, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in fresh chopped cilantro, if desired.
3. Prepare the Beans:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Set aside.
4. Grill the Chicken:
   Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
5. Assemble the Bowls:
   Divide the cooked rice between 4 bowls. Top each with a scoop of beans, sliced grilled chicken, and any desired toppings such as corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and cilantro.
6. Serve:
   Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, salsa, or hot sauce if you like. Serve the bowls immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Marinating Time for Chicken: To enhance the flavor of the chicken, marinate it for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours. You can also marinate it the night before if you’re meal prepping.
• Rice Options: You can use white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice depending on your dietary preference. Brown rice will take longer to cook, around 40 minutes, while cauliflower rice cooks very quickly (about 5-7 minutes).
• Customizable: The beauty of burrito bowls is the ability to customize. Add or remove toppings based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, you can skip the cheese for a dairy-free option, or swap in a different protein like tofu, tempeh, or steak.
• Meal Prep: This recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook everything in bulk and store the components (chicken, rice, beans, and toppings) separately. This will keep for 3-4 days in the fridge, and you can reassemble the bowls when ready to eat.
• Freezing: You can freeze the grilled chicken and beans for later use. Store the chicken in airtight containers or freezer bags and reheat it when needed. Rice can also be frozen in portions for later use.
• Toppings: The toppings are essential for adding freshness and texture to the dish. Consider adding sautéed bell peppers, pickled jalapeños, or pico de gallo for additional layers of flavor. Always serve with fresh lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus.
• Adjust for Spice: The chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper in the chicken marinade give the dish some spice. If you prefer a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. You can also add a mild salsa or Greek yogurt to balance the heat.
• Vegan/Vegetarian Substitutes: For a vegetarian or vegan option, replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or even grilled portobello mushrooms for a meaty texture. Beans are a great protein source for vegetarian diets.