Burrito Bowls

Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl

Name: Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless; 2 cups (400g) uncooked white rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups (400g) mixed vegetables, such as diced tomatoes and shredded lettuce; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro; 2 tablespoons lime juice

By Wesley Pemberton · June 19, 2026 · Burrito Bowls

Prep20 min

Cook25 min

Total45 min

Serves4

As a second-generation Mexican-American, I grew up surrounded by the sights, smells, and tastes of authentic Mexican cuisine. My abuela's kitchen was always filled with the aroma of simmering beans, roasting chiles, and sizzling meats. One of my favorite dishes she used to make was a simple yet flavorful Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl. It was a staple in our household, and I'm excited to share my version of this beloved recipe with you.

This Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl is more than just a meal; it's a reflection of my heritage and the love that goes into cooking for the people you care about. It's a dish that's easy to make, yet packed with flavor and texture. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings is a match made in heaven.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making a delicious Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl from scratch. We'll start with the basics: cooking perfect Mexican-style rice, preparing flavorful chicken, and gathering all the necessary toppings. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a tasty and satisfying meal.

So, let's get started on this culinary journey and create a dish that will become a staple in your household, just like it has in mine. With a little patience and love, you'll be enjoying a delicious Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl in no time.

In my kitchen, I believe that the key to a great dish is using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to prepare each component with care. For this recipe, we'll be using fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and tender chicken. We'll also be employing some traditional Mexican cooking techniques, such as toasting spices and charring vegetables, to add depth and complexity to our dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
It's perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner
The dish is highly customizable, so you can add your favorite toppings
It's a great way to use up leftover chicken and rice
The recipe is budget-friendly and can be made for under $10
It's a healthy and nutritious meal option, packed with protein and fiber

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to a great Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl lies in the layers of flavor and texture. By cooking the rice with onion, garlic, and spices, we create a flavorful base that's both aromatic and delicious. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, and spices, which adds moisture and flavor to the dish.

The key to cooking perfect chicken is to make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). This ensures that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. We'll also be using an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature, so you can be sure that your chicken is cooked to perfection.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of fresh toppings. By adding diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and diced avocado, we create a fresh and vibrant contrast to the rich and savory chicken and rice. The combination of flavors and textures is what makes this dish truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a great Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. We'll be using a combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and tender chicken to create a dish that's both flavorful and nutritious. In this section, we'll go over the ingredients you'll need to make this recipe, and I'll provide some tips on how to choose the best ingredients for the job.

From the tender chicken to the flavorful rice, every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a delicious and satisfying meal. So, let's take a look at what we'll be using and how to prepare each component.

1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, bonelessI like to use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe because they're tender and easy to cook. You can also use boneless chicken breasts if you prefer, but thighs have more flavor and moisture.
2 cups (400g) uncooked white riceFor this recipe, I recommend using high-quality white rice that's fresh and fragrant. You can also use brown rice if you prefer, but white rice is more traditional in Mexican cuisine.
2 tablespoons olive oilOlive oil is a great choice for cooking because it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor. You can also use avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer.
1 large onion, dicedOnions add a sweet and savory flavor to the dish, and they're a key component of many Mexican recipes. Make sure to dice the onion finely so it cooks evenly.
3 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a fundamental ingredient in Mexican cuisine, and it adds a pungent flavor to the dish. Mince the garlic finely so it distributes evenly throughout the rice.
1 teaspoon ground cuminCumin is a warm and earthy spice that's commonly used in Mexican cooking. It adds depth and complexity to the dish, and it pairs well with the chicken and rice.
1 teaspoon smoked paprikaSmoked paprika is a type of paprika that's been smoked over oak wood. It has a rich and savory flavor that adds a nice smokiness to the dish.
1/2 teaspoon saltSalt is an essential ingredient in any recipe, and it helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. Use a high-quality salt that's fresh and fragrant.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperBlack pepper is a classic seasoning that adds a nice kick to the dish. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
2 cups (400g) mixed vegetables, such as diced tomatoes and shredded lettuceThe mixed vegetables add a fresh and vibrant contrast to the rich and savory chicken and rice. You can customize the toppings to your liking, but diced tomatoes and shredded lettuce are classic choices.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantroCilantro is a fresh and fragrant herb that's commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It adds a nice brightness and freshness to the dish, and it pairs well with the other ingredients.
2 tablespoons lime juiceLime juice is a key ingredient in many Mexican recipes, and it adds a nice acidity and brightness to the dish. Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.

Ingredients for Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeInstant-read thermometerCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl

1
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it's translucent and starting to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
2
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it's browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
4
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice according to the package instructions. Typically, you'll want to combine the rice with water in a medium saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into thin strips and set it aside.
6
Add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
7
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until they're tender, about 3-5 minutes. Then, stir in the chopped cilantro and cook for another minute.
8
To assemble the burrito bowls, divide the cooked rice between four bowls. Then, add the sliced chicken on top of the rice, followed by the mixed vegetables and any other desired toppings.
9
Drizzle the lime juice over the top of each bowl and serve immediately.
10
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients to get the best flavor out of your dish.
Don't overcook the chicken or the rice, as this can make them dry and tough.
Customize the toppings to your liking, but make sure to include a variety of textures and flavors.
Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Experiment with different spices and seasonings to add more depth and complexity to the dish.
Consider adding other toppings, such as diced avocado or sour cream, to add more creaminess and flavor to the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken or the rice, which can make them dry and tough.
Not using an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Not letting the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, which can cause the flavors to be disjointed and unbalanced.
Not customizing the toppings to your liking, which can make the dish seem bland and uninteresting.

Variations and Substitutions

Adding diced bell peppers or other vegetables to the skillet with the onion and garlic.
Using different types of protein, such as steak or shrimp, instead of chicken.
Adding a sprinkle of cheese, such as queso fresco or feta, to the top of the dish.
Using different types of rice, such as brown rice or cauliflower rice, instead of white rice.
Adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cilantro to the top of the dish for extra flavor and texture.
Using different types of spices and seasonings, such as cumin or chili powder, to add more depth and complexity to the dish.

What to Serve With Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl

This Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl is perfect for serving on its own, but you can also customize it with your favorite toppings and sides. Consider adding a side of black beans, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Some other ideas for serving this dish include adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese to the top of the bowl, or serving it with a side of warm tortillas or crispy tortilla chips.

Serve with a side of black beans or roasted vegetablesAdd a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese to the top of the bowlServe with a side of warm tortillas or crispy tortilla chipsAdd a sprinkle of cilantro or scallions to the top of the bowl for extra flavor and texture

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This Chicken And Rice Burrito Bowl is best served fresh, but you can also store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. To refrigerate, simply place the cooked chicken and rice in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.

To freeze, place the cooked chicken and rice in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the mixture overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

When reheating, make sure to heat the mixture to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C) to ensure food safety. You can also add a splash of water or broth to the mixture to prevent it from drying out.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it's highly customizable, so you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later. Simply assemble the bowls when you're ready to serve and add your favorite toppings and sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

I recommend using high-quality white rice for this recipe, but you can also use brown rice or other types of rice if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.

Can I use different types of protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use different types of protein such as steak or shrimp instead of chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and method accordingly.

How do I know if the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature?

You can use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature when it reaches 165 F (74 C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Simply assemble the bowls when you're ready to serve and add your favorite toppings and sides.

What are some other toppings I can add to the dish?

You can customize the toppings to your liking, but some other ideas include diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced tomatoes.

Can I use different types of spices and seasonings to add more depth and complexity to the dish?

Yes, you can experiment with different spices and seasonings to add more depth and complexity to the dish. Some other ideas include cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika.

How do I reheat the dish without drying it out?

To reheat the dish without drying it out, you can add a splash of water or broth to the mixture and heat it over low heat, stirring constantly. You can also reheat it in the microwave or oven, but be sure to check the temperature and texture to avoid overcooking.

Can I serve this dish at a party or gathering?

Yes, this dish is perfect for serving at a party or gathering. You can customize the toppings and sides to fit your theme and preferences, and it's easy to make in large quantities.

The Full Recipe

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