Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The High-Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl is a meal-prep favorite and weeknight go-to that delivers big on both flavor and nutrition. With juicy grilled chicken, hearty black beans, fluffy rice (or cauliflower rice for a lighter option), fresh vegetables, and toppings like salsa and avocado, this bowl is balanced, satisfying, and packed with protein.
What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. I once swapped the rice for quinoa and added roasted sweet potatoes, and it gave the bowl a whole new flavor profile while keeping it filling and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout meal, a make-ahead lunch, or a family dinner everyone can customize to their liking, this burrito bowl hits all the marks.
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High-Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
High-Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl is a nutritious and satisfying meal packed with grilled chicken, seasoned rice, black beans, fresh veggies, and a light dressing. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, it delivers flavor and fuel in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Greek yogurt or light sour cream, for topping
- Salsa or pico de gallo, for serving
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub mixture over chicken breasts.
- Grill chicken over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Assemble bowls by dividing rice among 4 serving bowls.
- Top each with sliced chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, avocado, and cheese (if using).
- Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges, salsa, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Notes
- Swap chicken for ground turkey or steak for variety.
- To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- Make it low-carb by swapping rice for cauliflower rice.
- Great for meal prep—store in containers without avocado and add fresh before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breast (or thighs)
Lean, high-protein base of the bowl, seasoned and grilled to perfection.
Olive oil
Used to marinate and cook the chicken.
Lime juice
Adds brightness and tenderizes the chicken.
Garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, paprika
Classic Tex-Mex spices for flavoring the chicken.
Salt and black pepper
Basic seasoning to enhance every element.
Rice or cauliflower rice
The hearty base—choose depending on your nutrition goals.
Black beans
High in protein and fiber, making the bowl extra filling.
Corn (optional)
Adds natural sweetness and crunch.
Bell peppers and onions
Sautéed or roasted for flavor and texture.
Avocado or guacamole
Creamy, healthy fats to balance the dish.
Salsa or pico de gallo
Adds freshness and acidity.
Cheese (optional)
Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend for extra richness.
Fresh cilantro
For garnish and brightness.
Directions
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken with marinade and let rest for at least 20 minutes (or overnight).
Grill or pan-sear chicken over medium-high heat until fully cooked, about 6–7 minutes per side. Rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
While the chicken cooks, prepare rice or cauliflower rice according to package directions. Warm black beans and sauté peppers and onions until soft and slightly caramelized.
Assemble bowls by layering rice, beans, chicken, peppers, and onions. Top with avocado, salsa, cheese (if using), and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
Equipment needed
- Grill pan or skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes 15 minutes, cooking requires 20 minutes, making the total time about 35 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat chicken, rice, and beans before assembling. Avocado and salsa are best added fresh. This recipe also works beautifully for meal prep—assemble bowls without avocado, then add fresh before eating.
Variations and Customizations
Quinoa Burrito Bowl
Swap rice with quinoa for extra protein.
Spicy Chipotle Chicken Bowl
Marinate chicken with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for smoky heat.
Low-Carb Bowl
Use cauliflower rice and skip the beans for a keto-friendly version.
Vegetarian High-Protein Bowl
Replace chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh.
Double Protein Bowl
Add steak, shrimp, or an extra scoop of beans alongside chicken.
Greek-Inspired Bowl
Swap spices for oregano and garlic, then top with tzatziki.
Tex-Mex Style
Add shredded lettuce, jalapeños, and tortilla strips for crunch.
Avocado-Lime Dressing Bowl
Top with a creamy avocado-lime sauce instead of salsa.
Breakfast Burrito Bowl
Add scrambled eggs and swap beans for black-eyed peas.
Cheesy Chicken Bowl
Melt queso over the chicken and rice before adding toppings.
FAQs
How much protein is in this bowl?
Depending on portion size, about 35–45g per serving.
Can I meal-prep this ahead of time?
Yes, store components separately and assemble when ready to eat.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, just season and warm it before adding to the bowl.
Is this bowl gluten-free?
Yes, if all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What’s the best way to cook the chicken?
Grilling gives great flavor, but pan-searing works well too.
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, brown rice or quinoa adds more fiber and nutrients.
Can I make it spicier?
Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder.
What toppings work best?
Avocado, cilantro, salsa, cheese, and lime are all excellent.
Can I freeze burrito bowls?
Freeze components separately, but avoid freezing avocado or salsa.
What sides pair well with this?
Tortilla chips, Mexican street corn, or a side salad.
Conclusion
High-Protein Chicken Burrito Bowls are a flavorful, customizable way to fuel your body with lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Packed with juicy chicken, hearty beans, fresh vegetables, and zesty toppings, they’re perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners. Whether you stick with the classic version or explore variations like quinoa, chipotle, or vegetarian options, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying.
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