why make this recipe
One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner. It is not only quick and easy to prepare, but also requires minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pan cooking method. This means less time spent washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones. The blend of tender chicken, flavorful spices, and healthy ingredients makes this dish delicious and nutritious. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can adjust the ingredients and spices to suit your preferences.
The vibrant colors and the aroma of the spices will make your kitchen feel warm and inviting. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the flavors of Mexican cuisine but wants a healthier, homemade option. Additionally, it’s a great way to incorporate more protein and vegetables into your diet. Whether you are cooking for one or for the whole family, this dish is sure to please everyone.
how to make One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
Making a One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is simple and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare this delightful meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Chopped cilantro and lime wedges for serving
Directions:
Prepare the chicken: Start by taking the chicken breasts and seasoning them with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to rub the spices evenly on both sides of the chicken.
Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned on one side. Make sure to flip the chicken and brown the other side as well. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Combine the ingredients: In the same skillet, add the rice, black beans, diced bell pepper, and corn. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
Add the chicken broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. This will help to cook the rice and infuse it with flavor.
Cook the mixture: After bringing it to a simmer, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Make sure the chicken is resting on top of the rice mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the broth.
Fluff and garnish: Once the cooking time is complete, remove the skillet from the heat. Use a fork to fluff the rice mixture gently. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an added zest.
how to serve One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
Serving One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is a joy, as you can present it beautifully right from the skillet. Portion the mixture into bowls, making sure to include a generous serving of the rice, beans, corn, and chicken. For added flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top just before serving. You can also offer toppings such as sliced avocado, shredded cheese, salsa, or jalapeños for those who like it spicy.
This dish is perfect for family gatherings, meal prep for the week, or even as a high-protein lunch option. Serve with tortilla chips on the side for a bit of crunch, or enjoy it as is for a lighter meal.
how to store One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
To store your One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
If you want to make a bigger batch, this dish also freezes well. After cooling, you can place portions in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
tips to make One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
Choose your chicken wisely: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great, you can also use thighs for richer flavor. Be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Rice varieties: You can use different types of rice in this recipe, such as brown rice or jasmine rice. Just remember to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio based on the type of rice you choose.
Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with tofu or add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to make it a vegetarian option.
Adjust the spice level: If you enjoy spicy food, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicy salsa as a topping.
Add cheese: To make this dish even richer, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the top before serving. Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese works well.
variation
If you want to switch things up a little, here are a few variations you can try:
- Taco-style: Add taco seasoning instead of cumin and chili powder for a different flavor profile.
- Salsa Verde: For a tangy twist, you can stir in some salsa verde instead of the chicken broth for cooking the rice.
- Mexican Street Corn: Stir in cotija cheese and a bit of lime juice after cooking, giving your bowl a delicious Mexican street corn flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl ahead of time. It stores well in the fridge for several days, and the flavors continue to meld together as it sits.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with tortilla chips or a side of guacamole. You might also want to serve a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Definitely, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid based on the type of rice. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and confirm that all your other ingredients are gluten-free, this dish can easily be made gluten-free.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you would need to adjust the cooking time. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
This One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is simple, satisfying, and full of flavor, making it a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy cooking and experimenting with different ingredients to make it your own!
Print
One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A quick and easy One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl that’s flavorful and healthy, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Chopped cilantro and lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Start by taking the chicken breasts and seasoning them with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to rub the spices evenly on both sides of the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned on one side. Make sure to flip the chicken and brown the other side as well. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Combine the ingredients: In the same skillet, add the rice, black beans, diced bell pepper, and corn. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
- Add the chicken broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. This will help to cook the rice and infuse it with flavor.
- Cook the mixture: After bringing it to a simmer, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Make sure the chicken is resting on top of the rice mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the broth.
- Fluff and garnish: Once the cooking time is complete, remove the skillet from the heat. Use a fork to fluff the rice mixture gently. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an added zest.
Notes
For added flavor, serve with toppings such as sliced avocado, shredded cheese, salsa, or jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken burrito bowl, easy dinner, one-pan meal, healthy meal, Mexican cuisine