The Chicken Burrito Bowl is the ultimate Chipotle copycat meal you can make right in your kitchen. Packed with smoky Burrito Chicken Seasoning, vibrant toppings, and fresh ingredients, this bowl delivers restaurant-quality flavor with a homemade twist. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or quick lunches, every bite brings that same grilled, zesty satisfaction you love from your favorite burrito spot.
This Chicken Burrito Bowl recipe is fully customizable—add your preferred beans, corn, salsa, and guacamole for a personal touch. It’s the Best Burrito Bowl Recipe that keeps you coming back for more—healthy, hearty, and bursting with flavor.
I still remember the first time I tasted a Chicken Burrito Bowl at Chipotle—it was love at first bite. The combination of smoky grilled chicken, zesty lime rice, and colorful toppings left me completely hooked. I knew I had to recreate that Chicken Burrito Bowl magic at home. After some experimenting with spices, marinades, and textures, my own version came to life, and it quickly became a weekly favorite.
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Chicken Burrito Bowls (Chipotle Copycat) – Best Burrito Bowl Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Burrito Bowl recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor at home with smoky Burrito Chicken Seasoning, cilantro-lime rice, beans, corn, and fresh toppings. Perfect for quick meal prep or family dinners, it’s fully customizable and packed with protein and vibrant ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. In a small bowl, mix chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lime juice to form the Burrito Chicken Seasoning.
2. Place chicken in a resealable bag or bowl and coat with the seasoning mixture. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Remove chicken from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain into strips.
5. In a separate bowl, toss cooked rice with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to make cilantro-lime rice.
6. To assemble each bowl, layer cilantro-lime rice, sliced chicken, black beans, corn, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole, cheese, and sour cream.
7. Garnish with lime wedges and additional cilantro if desired. Serve immediately or pack components separately for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: main course
- Method: grilling
- Cuisine: mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 60
- Fiber: 8
- Protein: 35
- Cholesterol: 80
Keywords: chicken burrito bowl, chipotle copycat, burrito chicken seasoning, mexican bowl recipe, meal prep, healthy dinner, grilled chicken bowl, cilantro lime rice
The simplicity of layering rice, chicken, beans, and salsa makes this Chicken Burrito Bowl endlessly satisfying. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent yet wholesome—perfect for weeknights or meal prep. Over time, this homemade Chicken Burrito Bowl became my go-to lunch, a quick way to satisfy cravings for that signature Chipotle taste without leaving the house. Every bite brings back memories of that first restaurant bowl, only now it’s fresher, more flavorful, and entirely my own creation.
Why You’ll Love This Chipotle Copycat Bowl
What makes this Chipotle copycat version stand out is the harmony between simplicity and flavor. The smoky Burrito Chicken Seasoning gives the chicken its signature depth, while the fresh cilantro-lime rice, beans, corn, avocado, and salsa add layers of texture and vibrant color. This truly is the Best Burrito Bowl Recipe—balanced, delicious, and easy enough for beginners.
This Mexican Bowl Recipe Chicken is not only about taste but also about convenience. You can prep components in advance, store them neatly, and build your bowl in minutes. It’s nutritious, high in protein, and loaded with vegetables—perfect for healthy meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. Whether you like spicy, mild, or creamy toppings, this Chipotle-inspired bowl gives you complete control over your flavors. Once you try it, you’ll realize why it’s a favorite among meal prep lovers and busy home cooks alike.
Building the Perfect Burrito Chicken Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Mexican Bowl Recipe Chicken
Creating the perfect Chicken Burrito Bowl starts with fresh, flavorful ingredients and a balance of protein, grains, and veggies. This Mexican Bowl Recipe Chicken shines when the components work together—smoky marinated chicken, aromatic cilantro-lime rice, and colorful toppings that bring both crunch and zest. Each ingredient adds depth and texture, turning a simple bowl into the Best Burrito Bowl Recipe you’ll keep making again and again.
| Component | Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs | 2 lbs |
| Marinade | Burrito Chicken Seasoning: Chipotle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and lime juice | To taste / enough to coat chicken |
| Rice Base | Cooked white or brown rice mixed with cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of olive oil | 2 cups cooked |
| Beans | Black beans or pinto beans (rinsed and warmed) | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Corn | Grilled corn kernels or canned sweet corn | 1 cup |
| Vegetables | Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or sliced bell peppers | As desired |
| Extras/Toppings | Pico de gallo, guacamole or sliced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, and lime wedges | Optional |
This combination forms the foundation of your Burrito Bowls Chicken recipe. The seasoning is where the magic happens—our Burrito Chicken Seasoning blends smoky and tangy notes for that signature Chipotle flavor. The cilantro-lime rice adds a refreshing base, beans provide protein, and toppings like salsa, guacamole, and cheese add layers of deliciousness. Prepare each element separately to assemble bowls easily throughout the week, keeping every portion fresh and vibrant.
Tools and Prep Tips for a Great Result
The right tools make cooking Burrito Bowls Chicken both fun and efficient. You don’t need anything fancy—just a few dependable items to streamline your prep and cleanup.
- Grill pan or outdoor grill: Gives your chicken smoky perfection.
- Mixing bowls: For marinating, mixing rice, and prepping toppings.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: Essential for prepping vegetables and slicing chicken.
- Tongs or spatula: Makes grilling or searing easy and safe.
- Airtight containers: Ideal for storing burrito bowl components individually.
Prep Tips for Success:
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Batch cook rice and chicken to simplify Meal Prep Chicken Bowls Healthy routines.
- Heat gently before serving to retain moisture and freshness.
- Keep toppings separate to allow mix-and-match customization.
- Use compartment-style containers for organized storage and easy assembly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Burrito Bowl Recipe
How to Season and Cook the Burrito Chicken
To achieve that signature smoky, savory taste, the key lies in a well-balanced Burrito Chicken Seasoning. This mix transforms simple chicken breasts or thighs into the showpiece of your Burrito Bowls Chicken.
- Prepare the Burrito Chicken Seasoning: Combine chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lime juice for a smoky, bright blend.
- Marinate the Chicken: Coat the chicken evenly, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours for maximum flavor infusion.
- Grill or Sear: Cook on a preheated grill or skillet 5–6 minutes per side until golden and juicy at 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Slice: Let the chicken rest for several minutes before slicing thinly against the grain—the secret to tender, juicy bites.
Each step ensures deep flavor, perfect texture, and that authentic Chipotle copycat satisfaction with every mouthful.
Assembling Your Chicken Burrito Bowl
Now for the fun part—building your Chicken Burrito Bowl masterpiece! Start with a base of cilantro-lime rice, then add each component in colorful layers to create a visually stunning and delicious meal.
- Start with the Base: Spoon fragrant rice or substitute cauliflower rice or quinoa for a lighter option.
- Add the Star – Burrito Chicken: Arrange sliced, smoky chicken on top of the rice layer for that irresistible aroma.
- Layer the Toppings: Add beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and crisp lettuce for freshness.
- Finish with Creaminess: Guacamole, shredded cheese, or sour cream bring balance and richness. Squeeze lime juice and sprinkle cilantro for zest.
Optional Variations: Try grilled veggies or tofu for vegetarian options, add chipotle mayo for spice, or pack portions separately for easy Meal Prep Chicken Bowls Healthy throughout the week.
Before you dig in, toss everything gently—each bite should combine smoky Burrito Chicken, citrusy rice, beans, and creamy toppings in harmony.
Extra Tips, FAQ & Conclusion
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this burrito bowl?
Yes! Leftover roasted chicken reheated with a touch of Burrito Chicken Seasoning delivers the same smoky Chipotle copycat flavor.
How do I store and reheat Chicken Burrito Bowls?
Store components separately in airtight containers. Reheat chicken and rice before adding fresh toppings for best texture.
What toppings go best with this recipe?
Classic choices include beans, corn, lettuce, pico de gallo, cheese, and guacamole. Add jalapeños for spice or creamy chipotle sauce for richness.
Is it healthy for meal prep?
Absolutely. This Mexican Bowl Recipe Chicken balances protein, grains, and veggies, making it one of the easiest Meal Prep Chicken Bowls Healthy recipes to enjoy all week.
Can I substitute beef or tofu?
Yes. Use the same smoky seasoning on steak, shrimp, tofu, or tempeh—everyone enjoys their own version of the Best Burrito Bowl Recipe.
Final Thoughts and Serving Suggestions
The Chicken Burrito Bowl captures everything wonderful about fresh, hearty meals—grilled flavor, colorful textures, and endless customization. With Burrito Chicken Seasoning as your secret weapon, each bowl bursts with authentic Chipotle-style taste.
This homemade favorite is perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to large gatherings. Pair it with tortilla chips, lime crema, or a crisp green salad for a complete Mexican-inspired spread. Once you’ve mastered these Burrito Bowls Chicken, you’ll see how easy it is to recreate restaurant-quality meals at home—bold, wholesome, and made just the way you love.
