One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

Whip up a flavorful One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl in minutes—easy, hearty, and perfect for quick, healthy meals any day of the week. This vibrant dish combines tender chicken, zesty spices, fresh vegetables, and fluffy rice all cooked together in one pan for a fuss-free dinner that never compromises on taste or nutrition. Whether you’re meal prepping or need a weeknight winner, the One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl has got you covered with bold flavors and minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: All ingredients come together in just one pan, saving you time and reducing cleanup.
• Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein, fiber, and veggies for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
• Flavorful and Fresh: Bursting with spices and fresh toppings that keep every bite exciting.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak with your favorite veggies, proteins, or spice levels.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps great in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of a great One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl lies in its simple but powerful ingredients, each contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color. Fresh produce adds vibrancy, while spices deliver that signature southwestern zest.

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Choose boneless and skinless for quick cooking and juicy results.
• Long Grain Rice: The perfect base that soaks up all the savory juices.
• Bell Peppers: Adds crunch and sweet color for a vibrant dish.
• Black Beans: Provides protein, fiber, and a creamy texture to complement the chicken.
• Corn Kernels: Sweet bursts that brighten every bite.
• Diced Tomatoes: Introduces acidity and moisture to keep the rice tender.
• Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics that form the flavor foundation.
• Chili Powder and Cumin: Classic spices that bring warmth and depth.
• Lime Juice: Adds a fresh, tangy finish that balances the dish.
• Fresh Cilantro: Optional herb garnish to enhance freshness.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and locking in flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, round out the seasonings perfectly.

Variations for One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your cravings or dietary preferences—this One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is a fantastic blank canvas for creativity.

• Swap the Protein: Use shrimp, tofu, or ground turkey instead of chicken for variety.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Increase chili powder or add diced jalapeños for a fiery kick.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Skip cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives without losing any yum.
• Grain Alternatives: Substitute rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

How to Make One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing and chopping the bell peppers, dicing the onion and garlic, and cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken and Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat, then add the chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Cook until lightly browned on all sides, then add onion and garlic, stirring until fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Add Rice and Veggies

Stir in the rice, bell peppers, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix everything well to coat the rice in the spices and let the ingredients meld together.

Step 4: Cook Simmer Until Rice is Tender

Pour in water or chicken broth, cover the pan, and reduce heat to simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Finish with Lime and Cilantro

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the cooked mixture and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a bright, fresh finish before serving.

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

• Use Chicken Thighs: They stay moist and flavorful longer than breasts when cooked in one pan.
• Don’t Skip Toasting Rice: Lightly toasting rice in the pan first adds a subtle nutty flavor.
• Control Moisture: Use broth instead of water for rich flavor and avoid sogginess by measuring your liquid carefully.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop vegetables and measure spices in advance for a faster cooking process.
• Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit covered for 5 minutes after cooking—it helps the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

Garnishes

Brighten your bowl with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, sliced avocado or guacamole, and some extra cilantro or fresh jalapeños for crunch and heat.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crunchy green salad, tortilla chips with salsa, or roasted sweet potatoes for a well-rounded and filling meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the mixture in warm tortillas as burritos, stuff into crispy taco shells for crunch, or layer with toppings for a vibrant burrito bowl platter at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days—perfect for quick lunches or easy weeknight dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Portion into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra beans, tofu, or vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to keep it hearty and satisfying.

What is the best rice to use for One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl?

Long grain white rice works best as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors perfectly, but you can also use brown rice or quinoa if you prefer.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check canned goods like black beans or diced tomatoes to ensure no gluten-containing additives.

How spicy is this dish, and can I adjust it?

The spice level is moderate and very adaptable—feel free to add or reduce chili powder and fresh jalapeños according to your taste buds.

Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, frozen corn and bell peppers work well and can make this recipe even faster without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is truly a life-changer for anyone craving a delicious, fuss-free meal filled with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s one of those recipes that quickly becomes a trusted favorite, perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect blend of convenience and taste in every bite!

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