The Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime is a fiesta for your taste buds, bursting with zesty flavors and vibrant colors that dance on the plate. Imagine tender chicken marinated to perfection, nestled atop a bed of fluffy rice, surrounded by fresh toppings that add crunch and creaminess. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Picture this: A sunny Sunday afternoon, surrounded by family, laughter ringing through the air as we devoured these delightful bowls. The moment I served them, everyone’s eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. That joy and connection make this dish even more special—perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in with your favorite movie.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- Packed with flavor, it satisfies all cravings while being healthy
- Its colorful presentation makes it Instagram-worthy for food lovers
- Versatile enough to customize based on your taste preferences or what you have at home
Sharing this recipe always brings smiles to my loved ones’ faces—like when my sister proclaimed it the best thing she’d eaten all week.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for about 3-4 chicken breasts based on your crowd size; they cook evenly and absorb flavors beautifully.
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Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil brings richness and helps with marinating.
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Fresh Lime Juice: Nothing beats freshly squeezed lime juice for that zesty kick; it brightens the entire dish!
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Brown Sugar: This adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors; don’t skip it!
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Garlic Powder: A must-have for depth of flavor; fresh garlic works too if you prefer.
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Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices are essential for that beloved burrito flavor profile that warms your soul.
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Cooked Rice: Use white or brown rice, whichever you prefer; it’s the perfect base for layering flavors.
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Black Beans: Canned black beans work well here; rinse them first to cut down on sodium.
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Corn: Sweet corn adds a delightful pop of color and sweetness; you can use frozen or canned.
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Fresh Avocado or Guacamole: This creamy goodness is essential—it’s like the cherry on top of your burrito bowl!
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Chopped Cilantro (optional): Adds freshness and vibrant green color if you’re into it!
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Salsa or Pico de Gallo (optional): For an added zing! Choose your favorite variety to suit your taste buds.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime
Marinate the Chicken: Start by mixing olive oil, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder in a bowl. Toss the chicken breasts in this marinade and let them soak up those fantastic flavors for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and juicy!
Prepare the Rice: While the chicken cooks, prepare your rice according to package instructions. I like adding a squeeze of lime juice and salt once it’s fluffy—it makes such a difference!
Assemble Your Bowls: Once everything is cooked, slice the chicken into strips. In each bowl, layer rice as your base followed by black beans and corn. Add slices of grilled chicken on top.
Add Toppings: Finish off each bowl with generous dollops of guacamole or avocado slices! Sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired. A spoonful of salsa brings everything together beautifully.
Enjoy this vibrant Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime—your taste buds will throw a party!
You Must Know
- Chicken burrito bowls are not only delicious but also customizable
- You can mix and match ingredients based on your cravings
- The vibrant colors and textures make it a feast for the eyes, and the aroma will have everyone rushing to the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor, then sear it for that perfect golden crust. While the chicken cooks, prepare your rice or quinoa and chop fresh veggies to maximize efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap brown rice for cauliflower rice or add black beans for extra protein. Experiment with different salsas or even jalapeños if you’re feeling spicy!
Storing & Reheating
Store your chicken burrito bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave until warm, adding a splash of lime juice for freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, marinate chicken overnight; this enhances tenderness and taste
- Always let cooked chicken rest before slicing to retain juices
- When reheating, add a little water to prevent drying out
I once hosted a taco night where my friends devoured these burrito bowls in minutes! Their compliments made me realize that simplicity can lead to unforgettable meals.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in a burrito bowl.
What’s the best way to add spice?
Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.
Yes! These bowls store well and make excellent grab-and-go lunches during the week.
Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make meal features marinated chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of fresh toppings, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights, this colorful bowl is both satisfying and healthy. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your preferences!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 2 fresh limes
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can black beans (rinsed)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 avocado or 1 cup guacamole
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
- Salsa or pico de gallo (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder. Add chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: Preheat grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Prepare the rice: Cook rice according to package instructions; add lime juice and salt after cooking.
- Assemble the bowls: Slice cooked chicken and layer rice in bowls followed by black beans, corn, and chicken slices.
- Add toppings: Finish each bowl with guacamole slices or dollops and sprinkle with cilantro and salsa if desired.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 550g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. - Substitute brown rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. - Leftover rotisserie chicken can be used for quick preparation.
