Craving the bold flavors of Chipotle without the wait? Look no further! Our Copycat Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowls bring the vibrant taste of your favorite Mexican cuisine right to your kitchen in just 35 minutes. With tender, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of fresh toppings, this recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and satisfying meal for any night of the week. Whether you're feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead, these burrito bowls are guaranteed to impress. Dive into this delicious recipe and discover how easy it is to recreate that beloved Chipotle experience at home!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the chicken breast into uniform 1/2-inch cubes and measuring out all other ingredients.
- Season the diced chicken breast thoroughly with taco seasoning, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the seasoned chicken in the skillet, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and fully cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
- While chicken is cooking, prepare the rice according to package instructions. For extra flavor, consider using chicken broth instead of water.
- Drain and rinse the black beans, then warm them in a separate small saucepan or microwave.
- If using frozen corn, heat it in the microwave or sauté briefly in a pan until warm.
- Assemble the burrito bowls by first placing a base of cooked rice in each serving bowl.
- Layer the cooked seasoned chicken on top of the rice.
- Add black beans and corn around the chicken.
- Spoon salsa over the ingredients for additional moisture and flavor.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the warm ingredients so it slightly melts.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for brightness and additional flavor.
- Serve immediately while ingredients are still warm, optionally with additional salsa or hot sauce on the side.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, dice the chicken and measure out your ingredients in advance. This will streamline the cooking process and make assembly a breeze.
- Seasoning Matters: Ensure you thoroughly coat the chicken with taco seasoning for maximum flavor. You can even let it marinate for a few minutes for an extra kick!
- Cook with Care: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating. This will ensure your chicken is juicy and perfectly cooked.
- Flavorful Rice: For an extra layer of flavor, cook your rice in chicken broth instead of water. This simple swap elevates the taste of your burrito bowls significantly.
- Customize Your Bowls: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or jalapeños for a personalized touch. The beauty of burrito bowls is their versatility!
- Serve Fresh: These bowls are best enjoyed immediately while the ingredients are warm. If you’re making them ahead, store components separately and assemble just before serving.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, they can be easily reheated for a quick lunch or dinner. Just keep the toppings separate to maintain their freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg
