Easy Homemade Burrito Bowl

This easy homemade burrito bowl recipe is packed with fresh ingredients like grilled chicken, black beans, cilantro-lime rice, corn, and creamy guacamole. A healthy and flavorful meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s quick to prepare and ideal for meal prep. Customize it with your favorite toppings for a protein-packed, restaurant-style burrito bowl made right at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness
• Extra virgin olive oil, for brushing

For the Seasoning Mix:

• 1 Tablespoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Cilantro-Lime Rice:

• 2 cups water
• 1 Tablespoon canola or vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1/2 lime

For the Black Beans:

• 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup water

For the Quick Guacamole:

• 3 ripe avocados
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• 2 Tablespoons chopped cilantro
• Garlic salt, to taste

For Assembly:

• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 1/2 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen, then thawed)
• 4 oz freshly shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 small head romaine lettuce, chopped
• Optional toppings: Tabasco sauce, salsa

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Directions

1. Prepare the seasoning mix:
   In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, garlic powder, salt, cumin, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne. Reserve 1 Tablespoon of the mixture for the black beans.
2. Cook the chicken:
   Brush chicken breasts with olive oil, then season both sides with the remaining spice mix. Grill over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side, until the chicken is fully cooked. Let rest for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the cilantro-lime rice:
   In a small saucepan, bring water, oil, and salt to a boil. Rinse the rice under cold water, add it to the saucepan, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until tender. Stir in the lime juice and cilantro.
4. Prepare the black beans:
   In a small saucepan, combine black beans, water, and the reserved seasoning mix. Simmer briefly, then reduce heat to low to keep warm.
5. Mash the guacamole:
   In a medium bowl, mash the avocados with lime juice, cilantro, and garlic salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Assemble the burrito bowls:
   Spoon cilantro-lime rice into each bowl. Top with grilled chicken, seasoned black beans, cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, shredded cheese, chopped romaine, and a scoop of guacamole. Add hot sauce or salsa, if desired.

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Tips

• Use freshly cooked or leftover grilled chicken for a quick meal.
• Rinse your rice well before cooking to keep it fluffy.
• Prepare the guacamole just before serving to prevent browning.
• If grilling isn’t an option, cook the chicken in a skillet or bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, steak, tofu, or tempeh.
• Rice: Try brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
• Beans: Swap black beans with pinto or refried beans.
• Cheese: Use cheddar, pepper jack, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Add-ons: Include sautéed peppers, onions, or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor.

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FAQs

Can I make this burrito bowl ahead of time?
Yes, prep all ingredients separately and assemble just before serving for freshness.

How long can I store leftovers?
Keep in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store guacamole separately to prevent browning.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially seasonings) are certified gluten-free.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve your burrito bowls with tortilla chips, a side of salsa, or a dollop of sour cream. They’re also perfect for meal prep—pack ingredients in containers for easy weekday lunches or dinners.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy homemade burrito bowl is fresh, flavorful, and customizable. With juicy grilled chicken, seasoned black beans, zesty cilantro-lime rice, and creamy guacamole, it brings all the bold Tex-Mex flavors you love—right to your kitchen. Healthy, hearty, and perfect for meal prep, it’s a complete meal in one bowl.