Tired of struggling to get dinner on the table after a long day? I totally understand! As a busy home cook, I’ve been on a mission to find meals that deliver maximum flavor with minimum effort. That’s why this Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl has become my ultimate weeknight savior it practically cooks itself while you’re away and results in a deliciously tender, flavor-packed meal that the whole family will love.
Hi, I’m Emma, the heart behind GusRecipes! My passion for creating simple, delicious recipes came from my own busy life juggling work and family. This slow cooker chicken burrito bowl recipe is one of my proudest creations – it combines convenience with fresh flavors for a meal that feels like you spent hours in the kitchen (when you actually spent about 10 minutes of prep time!).
In this recipe guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know from selecting the perfect chicken and prep shortcuts to serving suggestions and make-ahead tips. Let’s transform your weeknight dinner routine with this game-changing slow cooker masterpiece!
Why This Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe Works
- Uses affordable boneless chicken thighs or breasts that become incredibly tender in the slow cooker
- Set-it-and-forget-it cooking method perfect for busy weekdays
- Versatile recipe that can be customized to suit everyone’s preferences
- Makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day
- Budget-friendly meal that feeds the whole family
- One-pot cooking means minimal cleanup
Choosing the Right Chicken for Your Burrito Bowl
Best Cuts for This Recipe
Chicken thighs are my top recommendation for this slow cooker chicken burrito bowl. They have more fat content than breasts, which means they stay juicy and tender during the long cooking process. However, if you prefer white meat, chicken breasts work beautifully too – just be careful not to overcook them.
Buying Tips
When shopping for chicken, look for:
- Fresh chicken with pink (not gray) coloring
- No strong odor
- If using organic or free-range chicken, adjust for slightly shorter cooking times
- If possible, choose chicken that hasn’t been previously frozen for the juiciest results
Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch things up:
- Boneless turkey breast chunks work well as a substitute
- For a vegetarian version, use extra-firm tofu or double the beans (though reduce cooking time significantly)
- For a richer flavor profile, boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal
Ingredients & Prep for Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl
Chicken Prep Essentials
Before adding your chicken to the slow cooker, trim any excess fat. This helps avoid greasy broth and makes for a cleaner eating experience. There’s no need to brown the chicken beforehand – one of the beauties of this recipe!
Seasonings & Aromatics
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Pantry Staples
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained (or 1.5 cups frozen corn)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
- ¾ cup uncooked long-grain rice (rinsed well)
Step-by-Step Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl Instructions
Pre-Cooking Chicken Prep
- Trim any excess fat from chicken pieces
- Mix all dry seasonings in a small bowl to ensure even distribution
- Dice onion, mince garlic, and chop bell pepper
Slow Cooker Chicken Method
- Layer onions and garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker
- Add chicken pieces on top
- Sprinkle with seasoning mixture, ensuring even coverage
- Add diced tomatoes, beans, corn, and bell peppers
- Pour chicken broth over everything
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours
Rice Addition for Chicken Burrito Bowl
- When approximately 45 minutes of cooking time remains, add the rinsed rice directly to the slow cooker
- Stir gently to combine, making sure rice is submerged in liquid
- Cover and continue cooking for the remaining time
Final Chicken Burrito Bowl Assembly
- Check that chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature)
- Remove chicken pieces, shred with two forks, and return to the slow cooker
- Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to combine
- Let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving
Pro Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
Avoiding Dry Chicken Issues
- Don’t lift the lid during cooking this releases precious moisture and heat
- If using chicken breasts, check for doneness at the minimum cooking time
- A splash of lime juice added at the end brightens flavors and adds moisture
- Allow chicken to rest in the cooking liquid after shredding for maximum juiciness
Tool Recommendations
- A 6-quart slow cooker works perfectly for this recipe
- Meat shredding claws make quick work of pulling the chicken apart
- A good rice rinsing strainer prevents gummy rice
- Consider a programmable slow cooker if you’ll be away longer than the cooking time
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days
- Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months
- When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness
- For meal prep, portion into containers with separate compartments for toppings
Looking for more kitchen inspiration? Check out my collection of easy weeknight meals on Pinterest – I’m always adding new family favorites!
Flavor Variations for Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
Spicy Chicken Twist
- Add 1-2 diced jalapeños with seeds removed
- Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of adobo sauce from canned chipotles
- Include a dash of cayenne pepper in your seasoning blend
- Top with sliced fresh jalapeños for those who want extra heat
Low-Carb Chicken Options
- Substitute cauliflower rice for regular rice (add during last 15-20 minutes)
- Double the chicken and beans, omit the rice entirely
- Use only half the recommended corn or omit completely
- Serve over a bed of shredded lettuce instead of rice
Global Chicken Flavor Profiles
| Flavor Profile | Key Ingredients to Add | Toppings |
|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean | Oregano, lemon zest, olives | Feta cheese, cucumber |
| Indian-Inspired | Curry powder, garam masala, ginger | Yogurt, cilantro |
| Caribbean | Allspice, thyme, scotch bonnet | Mango salsa, lime |
| Asian Fusion | Ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil | Green onions, sesame seeds |
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Burrito Bowls
Top your burrito bowls with a variety of fresh ingredients:
- Shredded lettuce or cabbage for crunch
- Diced avocado or guacamole
- Fresh chopped cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
- Fresh lime wedges
- Pico de gallo or your favorite salsa
Serve alongside:
- Tortilla chips for scooping
- Warm flour tortillas to create burritos
- Simple green salad with lime vinaigrette
- Mexican-style cornbread
FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
While it’s technically possible, I don’t recommend using frozen chicken in slow cooker recipes for food safety reasons. The slow heating process can allow bacteria to multiply. For best results and safety, always thaw your chicken completely before adding it to the slow cooker.
What if my rice isn’t cooking properly?
If your rice seems undercooked after the recommended time, check that there’s enough liquid in the pot. Add an additional ¼ cup hot broth or water, give it a gentle stir, and cook for another 15-20 minutes. Also ensure your slow cooker maintains proper temperature throughout cooking.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the chicken and double the beans (try a mix of black beans and pinto beans). You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The cooking time can be reduced to 3-4 hours on LOW.
How can I make this ahead for a busy week?
You can prep all ingredients except the rice the night before and refrigerate in the slow cooker insert. In the morning, just place it in the slow cooker base and start cooking. Alternatively, cook completely and portion into meal prep containers that will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Let’s Make Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls!
This slow cooker chicken burrito bowl recipe has been a game-changer for countless busy home cooks in my community. It combines convenience, nutrition, and incredible flavor in one simple package. The beauty of this recipe is how easily it fits into your lifestyle whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for one, or hosting a casual dinner with friends.
I’d love to see your creations! Tag @GusRecipes on social media or leave a comment on the website to share your own spin on this versatile dish. And remember, cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious – sometimes the simplest recipes bring the most joy to our tables!
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl: The Easiest Dinner Ever!
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A fresh and flavorful chicken burrito bowl packed with juicy grilled chicken, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, corn, and all your favorite toppings a healthy, customizable meal you’ll crave every week.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 lime, juiced
2 tbsp chopped cilantro
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1 cup diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for topping
Instructions
1. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the seasoning blend over the chicken breasts and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Grill or pan-sear chicken over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
4. In a large bowl, toss cooked rice with lime juice and chopped cilantro.
5. Assemble bowls by layering rice, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and sliced chicken.
6. Top with avocado, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
7. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
8. Serve warm or chilled.
Notes
For meal prep, store ingredients separately and assemble when ready to eat.
Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, steak, or tofu for variety.
Add lettuce for a lighter, salad-style burrito bowl.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: chicken burrito bowl, healthy meal prep, cilantro lime rice, Mexican bowl, easy lunch