24-High-Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl

A chicken burrito bowl is the perfect balance of nutrition, flavor, and convenience. Packed with protein, fiber, and fresh ingredients, this meal is a great alternative to traditional burritos, offering all the bold flavors without the tortilla. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or a customizable dish for the whole family, this recipe has you covered.

With grilled, marinated chicken, black beans, corn, guacamole, and fresh pico de gallo, this bowl delivers the ultimate Tex-Mex experience. It’s easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and can be modified to fit various dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon cumin

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

For the Bowl:

• 1 cup cooked black beans (drained and rinsed)

• 1 cup corn (fresh or canned, drained)

• 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce

• ½ cup pico de gallo (diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt)

• ½ cup guacamole (mashed avocado, lime juice, salt, cilantro)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate and Cook the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and lime juice.

2. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the seasoning mixture. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

3. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Guacamole and Pico de Gallo

5. In a bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice, salt, and cilantro to make guacamole.

6. For the pico de gallo, mix the diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a separate bowl.

Step 3: Assemble the Bowl

7. Begin with a base of chopped romaine lettuce in a serving bowl.

8. Arrange the grilled chicken, black beans, corn, guacamole, and pico de gallo in separate sections for a visually appealing presentation.

9. Serve immediately, allowing each person to mix and enjoy their bowl as desired.

Tips for the Best Chicken Burrito Bowl

1. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.

2. Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled for a brighter taste.

3. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

4. If grilling, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.

5. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the chicken.

6. If short on time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.

7. Rinse canned black beans thoroughly to reduce sodium content.

8. Toast the corn lightly in a skillet for a smoky flavor.

9. Use ripe avocados for the best guacamole texture.

10. Add a squeeze of lime juice over the assembled bowl for extra freshness.

11. If meal prepping, store ingredients separately and combine before eating.

12. For added crunch, top with crushed tortilla chips.

13. Try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein boost.

14. Swap lettuce for spinach or mixed greens for variety.

15. Use fire-roasted canned corn for deeper flavor.

16. Roast the chicken instead of grilling for a hands-free cooking method.

17. Add a drizzle of chipotle sauce for smoky heat.

18. Use pre-packaged pico de gallo to save time.

19. Store leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

20. Serve with warm tortillas on the side for a DIY burrito option.

Variations to Try

1. Rice Base – Add cilantro lime rice as the foundation of the bowl.

2. Quinoa Bowl – Swap rice for quinoa for added protein and fiber.

3. Spicy Chicken – Use a chipotle marinade instead of the seasoning mix.

4. Vegetarian Option – Substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu.

5. Low-Carb – Replace beans and corn with extra veggies like bell peppers and cucumbers.

6. Beef Burrito Bowl – Use ground beef seasoned with taco spices instead of chicken.

7. Shrimp Variation – Swap chicken for grilled shrimp marinated with lime and garlic.

8. Mediterranean Style – Replace Mexican seasonings with oregano, feta cheese, and tzatziki sauce.

9. Dairy-Free – Skip the cheese and use a cashew-based sauce instead.

10. Breakfast Burrito Bowl – Add scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for a morning-friendly version.

11. Buffalo Style – Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy twist.

12. BBQ Chicken Bowl – Drizzle barbecue sauce over the chicken for a smoky flavor.

13. Keto Version – Skip the beans and corn, and add extra guacamole and cheese.

14. Asian Fusion – Use teriyaki chicken with sesame seeds and slaw instead of pico de gallo.

15. Taco-Inspired – Crumble tortilla chips over the bowl for a crunch.

16. Sweet and Savory – Add pineapple chunks for a touch of sweetness.

17. Extra Protein – Add a soft-boiled egg on top.

18. Grilled Veggie Bowl – Load up on zucchini, bell peppers, and onions instead of beans and corn.

19. Avocado Crema – Blend avocado with Greek yogurt and lime for a creamy drizzle.

20. Jalapeño Heat – Add pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this bowl ahead of time? Yes! Store the components separately and assemble just before serving.

2. How do I store leftovers? Keep ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but thaw it fully before marinating.

4. What can I use instead of black beans? Pinto beans, chickpeas, or kidney beans work well.

5. Can I cook the chicken in an air fryer? Yes, at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ingredients.

7. What’s the best way to add crunch? Try adding tortilla chips, toasted pepitas, or crispy onions.

8. Can I add cheese? Yes, shredded cheddar, queso fresco, or cotija cheese are great options.

9. How do I make this spicier? Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.

10. What’s a good dressing for this bowl? Lime vinaigrette, avocado crema, or chipotle ranch.

11. Can I use canned corn? Yes, just drain it well.

12. How can I make it creamier? Add extra guacamole or a dollop of sour cream.

13. Is it okay to use store-bought pico de gallo? Absolutely, for a time-saving option.

14. What can I use instead of chicken? Try beef, tofu, shrimp, or grilled fish.

15. What’s the best side dish? Serve with a small side of tortilla chips or a simple cucumber salad.

16. Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, just season it lightly before using.

17. How do I keep guacamole from browning? Store it with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface.

18. Can I meal prep this for the week? Yes, prepare in advance and store in meal containers.

19. What’s the best way to reheat the chicken? Use a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals.

20. Can I freeze this recipe? The chicken can be frozen, but fresh ingredients should be used when serving.