Chipotle Burrito Bowl Recipe | Spicy, Flavorful & Easy Meal

After trying to recreate my favorite takeout meal at home, I finally perfected this Chipotle Burrito Bowl recipe. I was amazed at how simple it was to get that signature smoky flavor in the chicken and the fresh zest in the cilantro-lime rice. This bowl is now a regular in my meal rotation because it’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and fresh ingredients.

It’s my go-to for a satisfying and healthy lunch or dinner that tastes even better than the original. I promise, once you make it, you’ll be hooked too. If you enjoy hearty meals, you might also love my Christmas Turkey Recipe for a festive twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here is everything you need to build the perfect burrito bowl right in your own kitchen.

For the Chicken Marinade

1.5 pounds chicken breast – I recommend cutting it into bite-sized strips or cubes for even cooking and easy eating.
¼ cup avocado oil – This has a high smoke point, making it great for cooking the chicken without burning.
3 tablespoons lime juice – Always use fresh-squeezed lime juice for the brightest, most authentic flavor.
3 chipotle chilis in adobo sauce, finely chopped – These are the key to that classic smoky heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
1 ½ tablespoon adobo sauce – Use the sauce directly from the can of chipotle chilis; it adds another layer of smoky, tangy flavor.
1 ½ teaspoon garlic powder – A simple way to add savory depth without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic.
¾ teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing all the marinade flavors together.

For the Cilantro Lime Rice

1 cup long-grain white rice – Make sure to rinse it well before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps make the rice fluffy.
1 ½ cups water – The standard ratio for perfectly cooked white rice on the stovetop.
¼ teaspoon salt – Just enough to season the rice as it cooks.
1 lime, zested and juiced – Using both the zest and the juice maximizes the lime flavor, giving the rice its signature tangy kick.
¼ cup chopped cilantro – Fresh cilantro is a must. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with parsley or just leave it out.

For Assembly and Toppings

1 head romaine lettuce, chopped – Provides a cool, crisp base that contrasts nicely with the warm ingredients.
1 cup tomatoes, diced – Adds a fresh, juicy element. Roma tomatoes work well because they have fewer seeds.
1 avocado, chopped – For a creamy texture and healthy fats. Wait to chop it until just before serving to prevent browning.
1 cup frozen corn, thawed – An easy way to add a bit of sweetness and texture.
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained – Rinsing removes the excess sodium and starchy liquid from the can.
½ small red onion, chopped – Offers a sharp, pungent bite that cuts through the other flavors.

Note: The quantities listed will make approximately four servings.

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can swap out ingredients to fit your taste or dietary needs. For a different protein, try using grilled shrimp or steak. To make it vegetarian or vegan, substitute the chicken with my favorite plant-based option, seasoned tofu, or simply add more beans and veggies.

If you’re looking for a lower-carb version, skip the rice and double up on the romaine lettuce to turn it into a hearty salad. You could also use cilantro-lime cauliflower rice as a base, inspired by my Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup Recipe for a veggie-packed option. For extra flavor, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of cotija cheese, or your favorite salsa.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes (includes 2 hours of marinating time)

Equipment You Need

Large Bowl: For mixing the chicken marinade and coating the chicken pieces thoroughly.
Large Skillet: To cook the chicken until it’s perfectly tender and cooked through.
Medium Pot with Lid: For cooking the cilantro lime rice to fluffy perfection.
Fork: To fluff the rice after cooking, which keeps the grains separate.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you have the right proportions for all ingredients.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the chicken, vegetables, and cilantro.
Lemon Squeezer: To easily extract all the fresh juice from the limes.

How to Make a Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Creating this delicious bowl at home is straightforward. We’ll start by preparing the flavorful chicken marinade, then cook the rice, and finally assemble everything with fresh toppings. The process is simple and results in a meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Prepare the Chicken

First, create the marinade by stirring together the avocado oil, lime juice, finely chopped chipotle chilis, adobo sauce, garlic powder, and salt in a large bowl. Add the chicken strips to the bowl and toss them until they are completely coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours, or overnight for an even more intense flavor.

Cook the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken pieces from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and place them in the hot pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.

Make the Cilantro Lime Rice

While the chicken cooks, you can prepare the rice. Add the rinsed rice and salt to a pot of boiling water. Let it return to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Finish the Rice and Assemble

Once the rice is cooked, uncover it and fluff the grains with a fork. Add the lime zest, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro, tossing everything together until well combined. To assemble your burrito bowls, start with a base of rice and chopped lettuce, then top with the cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, avocado, corn, black beans, and red onion.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Having made this recipe many times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that really elevate the final dish.

I find that letting the chicken marinate for longer makes a huge difference. If you have the time, let it sit overnight. The flavors penetrate the meat more deeply, making it extra tender and delicious.
Don’t be shy with the lime in the rice. I often add a little extra juice and zest right before serving to brighten up the flavor. It really makes the whole bowl pop.
For meal prepping, I recommend grilling a whole batch of the marinated chicken at the start of the week. It reheats beautifully and makes assembling the bowls for lunch a breeze.
I like to warm the black beans and corn slightly before adding them to the bowl. It creates a nice temperature contrast with the cool lettuce and tomatoes.

How to Serve Chipotle Burrito Bowl

You can serve these burrito bowls warm or cold, making them perfect for both a sit-down dinner and a pre-prepped lunch. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the ingredients in distinct sections on top of the rice and lettuce base, creating a colorful mosaic. A final sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a lime wedge on the side adds a professional touch.

For extra texture and flavor, serve the bowls with a side of tortilla chips for scooping. You can also offer various toppings on the side, like different salsas, guacamole, sour cream, or shredded cheese, so everyone can customize their own bowl.

Nutritional Information

Here is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this burrito bowl.

Calories: 761 kcal
Protein: 52 g
Carbohydrates: 82 g
Fat: 27 g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare the components ahead of time and store them separately to maintain freshness. The cooked chicken and rice will stay good in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To freeze, allow the cooked chicken and rice to cool completely. Portion them into freezer-safe bags, press flat to remove excess air, and freeze. They will keep for up to one month.

When you’re ready to eat, you can enjoy the bowl cold straight from the fridge or reheat it. The chicken and rice can be microwaved until warm or reheated in a skillet over medium heat. Add fresh toppings just before serving for the best texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll find plenty of reasons to add this Chipotle Burrito Bowl to your regular meal plan.

Easy to Prepare: The steps are simple and straightforward, from marinating the chicken to assembling the bowl. It’s a great recipe for cooks of all skill levels, and the results are consistently delicious.
Perfect for Meal Prep: You can prepare all the components in advance and store them separately. This makes it incredibly easy to assemble a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal during a busy week.
Highly Versatile: This recipe is easy to adapt to your preferences or dietary needs. You can swap the protein, add different vegetables, or turn it into a salad, making it a new meal every time.
Packed with Flavor and Nutrients: Between the smoky chipotle chicken, zesty cilantro-lime rice, and fresh toppings, this bowl is bursting with flavor. It’s also loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you full and energized.

Ash Tyrrell