Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe

The Best Homemade Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe

My latest kitchen obsession, this pot chicken burrito bowl, combines zesty flavors that dance across your palate with surprising ease.

Tender chicken nestles among fluffy rice, creating a complete meal in one delightful vessel.

Seasoned spices weave through each ingredient, promising a lunch that beats any fast-casual restaurant offering.

Southwest-inspired elements bring vibrant colors and textures to your plate without complicated preparation techniques.

Fresh cilantro and lime add bright notes that cut through the rich protein and hearty grains.

Weeknight dinners just became significantly more exciting with this streamlined, satisfying recipe.

Grab a fork and get ready to savor every incredible bite.

Why Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Is A Flavor-Packed One-Dish Wonder

  • Speed Up Dinner: This one-pot wonder delivers a complete meal in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you're craving something tasty but short on time.
  • Customize Your Flavor Adventure: Packed with flexible ingredients, this burrito bowl lets you swap toppings and mix-and-match add-ons, ensuring every family member gets exactly what they want without complicated cooking.
  • Zero-Fuss Cooking Method: Using a single pot means minimal cleanup and straightforward preparation, so even novice cooks can confidently create a restaurant-quality meal without stress or complicated techniques.
  • Nutritious Comfort Food: Loaded with lean protein from chicken, fiber-rich beans, and nutrient-dense vegetables, this dish offers a balanced meal that satisfies hunger and provides excellent nutritional value in every delicious bite.

Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Ingredient Lineup

Protein:
  • Chicken: Lean protein that serves as the main component of the dish, boneless and skinless recommended for easy cooking.
  • Black Beans: Additional protein source that adds texture and nutritional value, canned beans work best for convenience.
Grains:
  • Rice: Base of the burrito bowl, white rice cooks faster while brown rice offers more fiber, long-grain varieties preferred.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Onion, Garlic: Foundational flavor builders that provide depth and aroma to the dish.
  • Corn: Sweet and crunchy vegetable that adds color and texture to the burrito bowl.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and tangy flavor, canned diced tomatoes are convenient.
  • Tomato Paste: Enhances the richness and depth of the tomato flavor.
Seasonings and Liquids:
  • Taco Seasoning, Cumin, Chili Powder: Spice blend that gives the dish its signature Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing and enhancing overall taste.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and additional flavor for cooking the rice.
  • Lime Juice: Adds brightness and acidity to the dish.
Garnishes and Toppings:
  • Cheese, Avocado, Sour Cream, Tortilla Chips, Cilantro: Optional toppings that add extra flavor, texture, and visual appeal.

How To Build A Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Step By Step

Step 1: Sizzle The Chicken

Heat a large deep skillet or pot over medium flame. Drizzle in olive oil and add chicken pieces. Sprinkle these delightful spices:
  • Taco seasoning
  • Cumin
  • Chili powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Dance the chicken around the pan, letting it turn golden brown and crispy for about 6-7 minutes.

Step 2: Wake Up The Aromatics

Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Let them dance and release their magical flavors for 1-2 minutes. Add these exciting ingredients:
  • White rice
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Tomato paste
  • Chicken broth

Stir everything together like you’re creating a flavor symphony.

Step 3: Simmer And Transform

Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble, then lower the heat. Cover the pot and let the ingredients mingle and soften. For white rice, wait 15-18 minutes. For brown rice, give it 35-40 minutes of patience.

Step 4: Boost The Flavor Party

Introduce these flavor champions:
  • Black beans
  • Corn kernels
  • Fresh lime juice

Let everything bubble together uncovered for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to high-five each other.

Step 5: Create Your Masterpiece

Scoop the hot mixture into bowls. Crown your creation with:
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sliced avocado
  • Sour cream
  • Crispy tortilla chips

Sprinkle fresh cilantro and squeeze extra lime wedges. Dive into your homemade burrito bowl adventure!

Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Cooking Tips For Success

  • Boost Chicken Flavor: Marinate chicken in taco seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking to intensify the spice profile and create deeper, more complex taste.
  • Perfect Rice Technique: Rinse rice before adding to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy and separated grains that won't become sticky during cooking.
  • Customize Protein Options: Swap chicken with ground turkey, shredded beef, or plant-based alternatives like tofu for diverse dietary preferences and nutritional needs.
  • Quick Meal Prep Hack: Double the recipe and store leftovers in airtight containers for easy lunches throughout the week, as the flavors continue to develop and improve overnight.
  • Elevate Toppings Game: Experiment with fresh ingredients like pickled jalapeños, crispy tortilla strips, or homemade pico de gallo to add texture and brightness to your burrito bowl.

Stash Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl The Smart Way

  • Refrigerate leftover burrito bowl in an airtight container within two hours of cooking.
  • Store the meal separately from garnishes like fresh avocado or sour cream to maintain optimal texture and taste.
  • Properly stored, the chicken and rice mixture will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, ensuring you seal them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
  • When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent the rice from drying out.
  • Microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally, until the dish is heated through to at least 165°F.
  • Avoid refreezing previously frozen burrito bowl to maintain food safety and quality.
  • Consume refrigerated or thawed meals within 1-2 days for the best flavor and texture.

What To Eat With Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl

  • Sip Zesty Margarita Companion: A classic lime margarita perfectly complements the Mexican-inspired flavors, cutting through the richness of the chicken and providing a tangy, refreshing counterpoint.
  • Pair Crisp Mexican Lager: A cold, light Mexican beer like Modelo or Corona balances the dish's warmth, with its clean, crisp taste enhancing the spices and providing a cooling effect.
  • Serve Fresh Cilantro-Lime Agua Fresca: This light, citrusy drink mirrors the bowl's lime notes, offering a non-alcoholic option that refreshes the palate and echoes the dish's bright, zesty profile.
  • Add Spicy Salsa Verde Side: A homemade or store-bought salsa verde adds an extra layer of vibrant flavor, bringing additional heat and complexity to the already delicious burrito bowl.

Fun Ways To Remix Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl

  • Spicy Southwest Fusion: Replace taco seasoning with a blend of chipotle powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne for an extra kick of heat. Add diced jalapeños during cooking to intensify the spice level.
  • Vegetarian Power Bowl: Swap chicken with plant-based protein like crispy tofu or roasted cauliflower. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add quinoa for additional protein and texture.
  • Mediterranean-Inspired Version: Substitute taco seasoning with oregano, za'atar, and lemon zest. Replace black beans with chickpeas and top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley for a Mediterranean flair.
  • Protein-Packed Ranch Style: Mix in ranch seasoning with the original spices. Add grilled shredded chicken or ground turkey for extra protein. Incorporate ranch dressing as a final topping for creamy richness.

Top Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl FAQs

  • Can I use chicken breasts or should I use thighs for this recipe?

You can definitely use chicken breasts! Chicken breasts work perfectly and are actually a leaner protein option. Just make sure to cut them into even, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and absorb all those delicious spices.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild to moderate spice level from the taco seasoning and chili powder. If you prefer less heat, use a mild taco seasoning or reduce the amount of chili powder. For more kick, add some extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce when serving.

  • Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with extra firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives. Keep the same seasoning method and cooking technique. You’ll still get a flavor-packed, protein-rich meal that everyone will enjoy.

  • What if I don't have chicken broth?

No worries! You can substitute with water, vegetable broth, or even a mix of water and salsa. The key is to maintain the liquid ratio to help cook the rice perfectly and keep everything moist and flavorful.

Print
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Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe

Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe


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4.6 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty Mexican-inspired Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl delivers bold flavors and easy preparation in one satisfying dish. Packed with tender chicken, zesty rice, and fresh toppings, this meal brings southwest comfort directly to your table.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 pound (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), diced
  • 1 (15 ounces) can black beans, drained & rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn

Base and Grains:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 (14.5 ounces) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted)
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth

Seasonings and Aromatics:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 packet (or 2 tablespoons) taco seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime

Toppings:

  • Shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese
  • Avocado or guacamole
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sliced jalapenos
  • Tortilla chips

Homemade Taco Seasoning:

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teasp

Instructions

  1. Warm olive oil in a spacious pot over medium-high temperature, carefully introducing diced chicken seasoned with zesty taco spices, ensuring each piece becomes golden and flavorful through consistent stirring.
  2. Incorporate finely chopped onions and minced garlic, allowing them to release their aromatic essence and soften slightly within the chicken mixture.
  3. Gently fold in uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, concentrated tomato paste, and rich chicken broth, creating a harmonious blend of ingredients that will transform into a vibrant one-pot meal.
  4. Encourage the mixture to reach a gentle bubbling point, then reduce heat to low, covering the pot to create a steamy environment that will perfectly cook the rice and meld the flavors.
  5. Allow the rice to absorb the liquid and become tender, maintaining a watchful eye to prevent overcooking and ensure a fluffy texture.
  6. Introduce black beans and sweet corn kernels, carefully stirring to distribute them evenly throughout the dish, then squeeze fresh lime juice to brighten the overall flavor profile.
  7. Let the ingredients simmer uncovered for a brief moment, allowing the final touches to integrate and intensify the dish’s complex taste.
  8. Transfer the steaming burrito bowl into serving dishes, creating an inviting presentation topped with melted cheese, creamy avocado slices, dollops of tangy sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
  9. Serve immediately with crisp tortilla chips and additional lime wedges, inviting diners to customize their perfect burrito bowl experience.

Notes

  • Boost the flavor by toasting the rice in the pan for a minute before adding liquids, creating a nutty, rich undertone that elevates the entire dish.
  • Customize protein options by swapping chicken for ground turkey, shredded beef, or plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh for diverse dietary needs.
  • Reduce sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth and homemade taco seasoning, allowing better control over salt content without compromising taste.
  • Make it meal-prep friendly by storing the burrito bowl in airtight containers for up to 4 days, keeping toppings separate to maintain crispness and prevent sogginess.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 55 g
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

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