Why make this recipe
High Protein Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal in one dish. They bring together juicy grilled chicken, fluffy rice, and hearty beans, making them a balanced option for lunch or dinner. Plus, you can customize each bowl with your favorite toppings, giving everyone the chance to enjoy their meal just the way they like it.
How to make Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans
Ingredients:
For the Chicken & Marinade:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice (fresh)
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Burrito Bowls:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or fresh grilled)
- 1 small avocado, sliced
- ⅓ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- ½ red onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- Handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Directions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and all the spices. Pour this mixture over the chicken in a large resealable bag or dish, making sure to coat the chicken well. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, though letting it sit overnight will enhance the flavors even more. You’ll see the spices give the chicken a lovely reddish color.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the chicken is marinating, cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, fluff the rice with a fork and mix in some chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This adds a fresh note that enhances the overall dish.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 5–7 minutes on each side until it is nicely charred and fully cooked. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. The combination of a smoky crust and juicy center makes it incredibly delicious.
Step 4: Prepare the Veggies & Beans
In a small pan, warm the black beans and corn together with a bit of olive oil and lime juice. Chop the remaining toppings: onion, tomatoes, jalapeño, and prepare the avocado as well.
Step 5: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls
Start by adding a base of cilantro lime rice to each bowl. Then, layer on the grilled chicken, warmed beans and corn, diced tomatoes, onions, avocado slices, and jalapeño. Finish each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve with a lime wedge for an extra zing of flavor.
How to serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans
Serve these tasty burrito bowls warm, allowing everyone to mix their ingredients as they like. Don’t forget the lime wedges for an added splash of flavor!
How to store Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. They can stay fresh for about 3 days. If you’re storing components separately, the ingredients will last longer. Reheat the chicken and beans before serving.
Tips to make Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour to get the best flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the right temperature (165°F/75°C).
- Feel free to add other toppings like cheese, salsa, or other vegetables.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead.
Variation
You can swap the grilled chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a different flavor. Additionally, feel free to use brown rice for a healthier twist.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken, rice, and toppings ahead of time. Just store each component separately in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the burrito bowls?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and rice. Reheat them fully before combining with fresh toppings.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
You can use sour cream or even a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you prefer.
Print
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A healthy, flavorful meal featuring juicy grilled chicken, fluffy rice, and hearty beans, customizable with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice (fresh)
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or fresh grilled)
- 1 small avocado, sliced
- ⅓ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- ½ red onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- Handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and all the spices. Coat the chicken well and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and add chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill. Grill the marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.
- Warm the black beans and corn in a small pan with olive oil and lime juice. Chop the remaining toppings: onion, tomatoes, and jalapeño.
- Assemble the bowls with a base of cilantro lime rice, layered with grilled chicken, warmed beans and corn, diced tomatoes, onions, avocado, jalapeño, Greek yogurt, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
Notes
Marinate the chicken for at least an hour for the best flavor. Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: burrito bowls, grilled chicken, rice and beans, healthy meal, customizable
