This One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is the perfect weeknight dinner—quick, easy, and packed with all the delicious flavors you love. With just a few simple ingredients and a single skillet, you can create a comforting and satisfying meal that’s both healthy and full of flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or just need a fast dinner idea, this recipe is a must-try!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken breasts and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and corn. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the black beans, cooked rice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- If using, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Kcal: 450 | Servings: 4
The Origin of the Chicken Burrito Bowl
The burrito bowl is a modern twist on the classic burrito, and it has quickly gained popularity due to its versatility and ease of preparation. Originating from Mexican cuisine, burritos traditionally consist of a flour tortilla filled with various ingredients like beans, rice, meat, and vegetables. However, the burrito bowl offers the same great flavors, served in a bowl without the tortilla, making it a lighter option. The one-pan version of the chicken burrito bowl has made it even more convenient for busy cooks, simplifying the preparation and cleanup process.
Why This One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
If you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and healthy meal to whip up after a busy day, this one-pan chicken burrito bowl is the perfect solution. The combination of protein-rich chicken, fiber-packed black beans, and vibrant vegetables makes it a well-rounded dish. Plus, the addition of spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika gives it a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the fresh lime and cilantro.
One of the best parts of this recipe is that it requires minimal preparation and uses just one pan, which makes cleanup a breeze. You can also customize it to suit your preferences—add extra toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa, or switch out ingredients like the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Nutritional Benefits of the Ingredients
- Chicken Breast: A great source of lean protein, chicken breast helps to keep you full while providing essential nutrients like niacin, vitamin B6, and phosphorus.
- Black Beans: Packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants, black beans support digestive health and help stabilize blood sugar levels.
- Corn: Rich in vitamins B and C, corn adds a natural sweetness to the dish, along with fiber to promote digestive health.
- Bell Peppers: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, bell peppers add a burst of color and are great for boosting immunity.
- Rice: A source of complex carbohydrates, rice provides long-lasting energy while being a great base for this hearty bowl.
Customization Ideas
- Add Toppings: If you love a little extra flavor, top your burrito bowl with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or a spoonful of homemade salsa or guacamole.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for tofu, tempeh, or extra beans for a vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.
- Make it Spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to give your dish some extra heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice or a leafy green base like spinach or lettuce to make it a low-carb meal.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
This recipe is a perfect choice for anyone who loves easy meals that are packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, the one-pan chicken burrito bowl will quickly become a go-to in your dinner rotation. It’s a meal that’s satisfying, nutritious, and full of fresh ingredients—all cooked in one pan for minimal hassle. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) store well in the fridge, making it a great option for lunches the next day.
With just a handful of simple ingredients and spices, you can make this quick and tasty chicken burrito bowl anytime you want a delicious meal without the fuss.
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
The One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl has become a go-to recipe in many households for its versatility, quick prep time, and ability to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The flavors are familiar yet exciting, combining the savory richness of chicken with the vibrant, fresh ingredients that make Mexican food so popular. It’s a great choice for family meals because everyone can customize their bowl with toppings they love, like shredded cheese, sour cream, or even sliced avocado. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce kids to new flavors without being too adventurous.
Since the dish is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients like chicken, beans, and vegetables, it’s a balanced meal that provides protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s also an easy way to get your daily dose of vegetables—without the hassle of complicated meal prep.
Meal Prep Friendly and Customizable
If you’re looking to meal prep for the week ahead, this dish is a great option. Simply cook a larger batch, portion it out into individual containers, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully, making it a convenient lunch or dinner option when you’re short on time.
Additionally, this recipe is highly customizable based on your dietary preferences. If you’re following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, you can swap the rice for cauliflower rice. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with tofu or extra beans for a plant-based version. You can even experiment with different toppings like avocado, salsa, or a drizzle of spicy ranch dressing to add your personal touch.
Tips for Making the Perfect One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
- Chicken Tips: For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. If you prefer juicy chicken, try marinating the chicken in some olive oil, lime juice, and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Rice Variations: You can use any type of rice in this recipe—white, brown, or even a more exotic variety like jasmine or basmati rice. If you want to make the dish even lighter, swap the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer your meals on the milder side, reduce the amount of chili powder and cumin. For a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the skillet.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to get creative with the vegetables in this dish. Zucchini, spinach, or roasted sweet potatoes would be delicious additions to the bowl.
- Leftover Transformation: If you have leftovers, try turning the chicken burrito bowl into a wrap or a taco by adding the mixture to tortillas. Alternatively, you can top it with a fried egg for a breakfast twist!
Why This Dish is Ideal for a Busy Lifestyle
This one-pan chicken burrito bowl is a lifesaver for anyone with a busy schedule. With just one pan to clean up and a prep time of only 10 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknights when you’re craving a quick, flavorful meal but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. The recipe can be adjusted based on your available ingredients, so it’s easy to adapt to what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of chips: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of crispy tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Toppings: Don’t forget the toppings! Fresh guacamole, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream take this bowl to the next level.
- Add some heat: For spice lovers, adding some hot sauce or diced jalapeños will make this dish even more exciting.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken burrito bowl in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the ingredients from drying out.
Conclusion
The One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, combining delicious flavors and nutrients in a quick and easy meal. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, and can be customized to suit any dietary preference. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding the family, or just looking for a fast, healthy dinner, this recipe has you covered.
With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to become a regular favorite in your meal rotation. Try it out next time you need a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s both simple and delicious!