High Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime; 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup salsa; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Meal Delights

I always look forward to preparing my go-to High Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl, especially on busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, zesty lime, and fresh toppings creates a delightful meal that's as nutritious as it is satisfying. It’s my favorite way to meal prep because not only is it quick to put together, but everyone enjoys customizing their own bowl. I love knowing that I’m serving up something wholesome and packed with protein without sacrificing flavor.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-10T20:41:36.345Z

When I first made this burrito bowl, I experimented with adding a variety of spices to the chicken, and the result was a burst of flavor that took my meal to another level. I realized that marinating the chicken in lime juice allowed the flavors to truly penetrate the meat, resulting in a tender and tasty dish that my family couldn't get enough of.

Experimenting with the toppings has become a fun aspect of prepping this meal. I love adding avocado, fresh cilantro, and even a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. The vibrant colors and textures in the bowl make it not only delicious but visually appealing, encouraging my family to join me in enjoying a balanced meal.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with protein from chicken and beans to fuel your day.
Fresh and vibrant flavors make each bite exciting.
Customizable toppings allow everyone to create their perfect bowl.

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

Properly cooking chicken breast is crucial for achieving a juicy and flavorful result in your burrito bowl. First, ensure your skillet is preheated on medium-high heat before adding the marinated chicken. This temperature helps create a nice sear on the chicken, trapping in the juices. Look for a golden-brown crust on the first side before flipping—this usually takes about 6-7 minutes. If you find the chicken is browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to prevent burning.

After flipping the chicken, continue to cook for another 6-7 minutes. To ensure it's fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Another great visual cue is when the juices run clear if you slice it slightly. Remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender bite.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best aspects of the High Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl is its versatility. Feel free to switch up the base—if you're looking to reduce carbs, try cauliflower rice instead of brown rice or quinoa. For extra fiber, consider adding some chopped kale or spinach alongside your other toppings. Focusing on seasonal vegetables can also enhance freshness; for example, grilled zucchini or bell peppers make delightful additions during the summer months.

Another way to customize is by diversifying the toppings. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or cotija cheese adds a creamy tang that elevates the flavor profile. For those who enjoy a little heat, diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can spice things up. Mixing in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream can also provide a cooling contrast to the zesty lime and the spiced chicken.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients for a delicious burrito bowl.

For the Chicken

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup salsa
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

Cooking Steps

Follow these steps to create your chicken burrito bowl.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing.

Assemble the Burrito Bowl

In bowls, layer the cooked brown rice or quinoa, followed by black beans, corn, sliced chicken, diced tomatoes, avocado, and salsa. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Customize your bowl with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding lime wedges on the side or experimenting with different spicy salsas.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

In this recipe, chicken serves as the protein powerhouse, but if you're vegetarian or looking for a lighter option, swap it out for grilled tofu or tempeh. Both alternatives soak up the marinade wonderfully, providing similar flavors with a different texture. The black beans not only boost protein but also provide fiber, making them a key component of this dish. Canned or cooked from scratch, they work seamlessly to complement the other ingredients.

Fresh vegetables like corn and tomatoes are crucial for the bowl's crunch and hydration. If fresh corn isn't an option, frozen corn is a perfect substitute that cooks quickly and retains its sweetness. You can also switch out the tomatoes for chopped bell peppers if you prefer a sweeter flavor or need something chunkier. Don't hesitate to experiment with ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This burrito bowl is an excellent candidate for meal prep, making it easy to whip up a week’s worth of lunches. To store, simply layer the ingredients in airtight containers, placing the chicken first at the bottom to retain moisture, followed by the beans, rice, and toppings. Keep avocado slices separate or add them fresh right before serving to prevent browning. Properly stored, your burrito bowls can last in the refrigerator for up to four days.

If you're looking to store portions for longer, consider freezing assembled bowls without avocado or salsa, which can be added later. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the microwave. When reheating, aim for an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C) to ensure food safety. This allows for convenient meals that save time without compromising nutrition or flavor!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Shredded leftover chicken works great in this burrito bowl.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with roasted vegetables or additional beans.

→ How long does it take to prepare?

Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking takes an additional 25 minutes.

→ What can I substitute for brown rice?

You can use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even a leafy green base for a low-carb option.