One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is a delightful and convenient meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right to your kitchen. This colorful dish combines succulent chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh veggies, all cooked in a single pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Let’s dive into why this recipe is worth making and how you can whip it up in no time!
Why Make This Recipe
This One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. The combination of seasoned chicken and aromatic spices mixed with fresh vegetables and rice creates a dish that satisfies your taste buds. Plus, it can be customized with your favorite toppings and ingredients, making it fun for everyone at the table. Here are a few reasons to consider making this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein, veggies, and fiber, this dish supports a healthy lifestyle.
- Customizable: You can personalize the bowl with different vegetables, proteins, or toppings to suit your family’s preferences.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing economical ingredients, this meal is pleasing to both the palate and the wallet.
Now, let’s get into how to make this vibrant dish!
How to Make One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
Making a One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these steps to create a scrumptious meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoky paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 small red onion (sliced)
- ½ cup corn kernels (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 lime (cut into wedges)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: sour cream for serving
Directions:
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Start by slicing the chicken into thin strips and seasoning them with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mixture will give your chicken an irresistible taste.
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Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering and slightly fragrant.
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Cook the seasoned chicken in the skillet, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
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Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet, and toss in the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they are tender and slightly caramelized, which will take around 5 minutes.
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Stir in the rice to the skillet, coating it with the oil and spices. Cook for about 1 minute until it turns slightly translucent.
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Pour in the chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
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While the rice cooks, you can reheat the cooked chicken back in a separate pan if necessary, or simply add it towards the end to warm it up.
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Once the rice is fluffy and fully cooked, stir in the corn kernels, chopped cilantro, and squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture for bright, zesty flavors.
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Top the rice with the cooked chicken, and garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges for serving.
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If desired, dollop with sour cream, and enjoy your vibrant, flavorful chicken burrito bowl directly from the pan!
Pro Tips for Success with One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
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Ensure Even Cooking: Cut the chicken into uniform strips to ensure even cooking throughout. This will help achieve that perfect texture.
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Don’t Skip the Browning: Searing the chicken before adding the rice enhances the dish’s flavor. The carmelization from browning adds depth to the overall taste.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap the bell pepper and onion for other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime and cilantro can significantly elevate your dish’s brightness and flavor. Always go for fresh over dried when possible.
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Control the Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder based on your spice preference. Make it milder by cutting it back or kick it up by adding cayenne!
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Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top in the last few minutes of cooking until it melts deliciously!
Flavor Variations for One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
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Taco Seasoning Twist: Instead of cumin and chili powder, use a packet of taco seasoning for a different flavor profile. It’s quick and all the spices are blended for you!
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Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken for black beans or chickpeas. Add extra veggies like sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a hearty meal.
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Extra Heat: If you love spice, toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking for an extra kick.
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Southwestern Flair: Mix in diced tomatoes with green chiles or even avocado, giving a creaminess that pairs beautifully with the other flavors.
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Coconut Rice Variation: Replace the chicken broth with coconut milk for a rich and creamy rice base filled with tropical flavors.
Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
Serving your One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl can be as creative as you desire. Here are a few ideas for making your meal even more delightful:
- Toppings Bar: Set out toppings like shredded cheese, guacamole, fresh salsa, or jalapeños for a customizable meal that pleases everyone.
- With Tortilla Chips: Offer a side of crunchy tortilla chips to scoop up the bowl, adding texture and a great crunch.
- Pair with a Salad: Serve the burrito bowl alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Make It a Wrap: If you have leftover filling, wrap it in a tortilla for a delicious lunch option the next day.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
Storing your One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is simple and can help you enjoy it later. Here are some tips:
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Refrigeration: Allow the leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave until warmed through.
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Freezing: This dish freezes well! Divide portions into freezer-safe containers and store them for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Reheating: To reheat from frozen, you can either place it in the microwave or cook it on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|————|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! However, it will require more liquid and a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust your chicken broth accordingly.
What can I substitute for chicken?
For a vegetarian option, you can use black beans, chickpeas, or sautéed tofu. Each offers a different flavor and texture while completing the dish nicely.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge separately. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the steps as normal for a quick weeknight dinner.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always double-check your rice packaging to ensure there’s no added gluten.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Let the dish cool down completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for longer-lasting storage.
Can I make this bowl spicy?
Definitely! To add spice, consider adding a chopped jalapeño while cooking, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the dish before serving. Adjust the level of heat to suit your taste!
Final Thoughts
The One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is a simple yet satisfying meal that brings flavors of the Southwest into your home. It’s perfect for busy families wanting to serve something delicious without a mountain of dishes afterward. With its versatility, you can mix and match ingredients to find your favorite combination. Enjoy making, sharing, and savoring this vibrant dish with friends and family—it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation!
Print
One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful one-pan meal combining succulent chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh veggies for a vibrant Mexican flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoky paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 small red onion (sliced)
- ½ cup corn kernels (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 lime (cut into wedges)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: sour cream for serving
Instructions
- Slice the chicken into thin strips and season with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the seasoned chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, then remove from skillet.
- Add remaining olive oil to the skillet, then sauté sliced onion and bell pepper until tender and caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the rice, coating it with oil and spices, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until rice is tender.
- Stir in corn kernels, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime juice.
- Top rice with cooked chicken; garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges. Serve with sour cream if desired.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and feel free to customize with your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican