Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowl

Name: Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Collection

I love making this Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowl for a quick and nutritious meal. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and wholesome grains makes it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – I can easily swap out ingredients based on what I have on hand. This dish is not only delicious but also helps me stay on track with my healthy eating goals. With just the right blend of flavors, it's a meal that I look forward to eating every time.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:25:37.878Z

When I first tried making a burrito bowl at home, I was amazed at how easy it was to replicate the restaurant experience. I marinated the chicken in spices and lime juice for added flavor, which really elevates the dish. I discovered that using fresh herbs and a variety of toppings truly brings this bowl to life.

One of my favorite tips is to batch-cook the grains and proteins ahead of time. This not only saves me time during the week but also allows me to create different variations to keep things interesting. It’s a flexible recipe that embraces creativity!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh ingredients that boost your energy levels
Customizable to suit any taste or dietary requirement
A wholesome meal packed with protein and fiber

Customization Options

One of the most appealing aspects of the Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowl is its customization flexibility. You can easily adjust the protein by swapping chicken for grilled shrimp, tofu, or even tempeh for a vegetarian option. If you're looking for a faster weeknight meal, consider using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time. Just shred or dice it and toss it in with your other ingredients for a quick assembly.

In terms of grains, feel free to switch between brown rice, quinoa, or even farro. Each grain offers its unique texture and flavor, so experiment to find your favorite. For a low-carb option, you can use cauliflower rice, which will give you the same satisfying base without the extra carbs.

Storage and Meal Prep

This burrito bowl is perfect for meal prep, as it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days. I recommend storing the ingredients separately to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. For instance, keep the chicken and grains in one container, and the vegetables, avocado, and garnishes in another. This way, you can easily assemble a delicious meal any time without compromising texture or flavor.

For longer storage, consider freezing the components. Cooked chicken, beans, and grains can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to cool them completely before transferring to airtight containers. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat the components separately in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start to make the cooking process smoother.

For the Chicken

2 large chicken breasts, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences!

Instructions

Always start by preparing the chicken and the base of your burrito bowl.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat.

Prepare the Bowl

In a large bowl, layer the cooked brown rice or quinoa as the base. Top with black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes.

Assemble

Add the cooked chicken on top of the layered ingredients. Finish off the bowl with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Enjoy your Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowl warm, and feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

Try adding some Greek yogurt or a dollop of salsa for extra flavor and creaminess.

Flavor Development Techniques

To enhance the flavors of your Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowl, consider marinating the diced chicken in your choice of spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. A simple marinade made with olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and your preferred spices will deepen the flavor profile of the chicken, making it more savory. Just remember to drain the excess marinade before cooking to ensure proper browning.

Additionally, achieve better flavor by cooking the chicken over medium-high heat, allowing the spices to caramelize and form a nice crust. This not only adds depth to the chicken's flavor but also gives it a pleasing texture. Look for hints of golden browning as a good visual cue that your chicken is ready.

Serving Suggestions

When serving the Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowl, consider offering a selection of toppings like shredded cheese, Greek yogurt, or hot sauce to accentuate the flavors. You can even add a dollop of pico de gallo for a fresh, zesty kick. My personal favorite is a sprinkle of feta or cotija cheese, which adds a creamy, tangy element that complements the dish beautifully.

Don't forget about the lime wedges! Squeezing fresh lime juice over the assembled bowl just before eating brightens the dish and ties all the flavors together. If you're feeling adventurous, mix in some sliced jalapeños or pickled onions for an extra layer of flavor and heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use grilled chicken instead?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken adds a lovely flavor to the bowl.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

You can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Yes, you can meal prep the chicken and grains in advance and assemble the bowl when ready to eat.

→ What can I add for extra crunch?

Adding some crushed tortilla chips or chopped nuts can give your burrito bowl a nice crunch.