One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

A One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is the ultimate answer to weeknight dinner dilemmas. This vibrant and hearty dish combines tender, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and bold Tex-Mex flavors—all cooked together in a single pan. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s a family-friendly favorite that satisfies cravings without the hassle.

Loaded with protein, fresh veggies, and a blend of spices, this burrito bowl is a versatile meal that you can customize to suit your preferences. Topped with fresh avocado, tangy lime, and a sprinkle of cheese, every bite bursts with flavor and texture.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder is your go-to recipe. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and packed with the bold, zesty flavors we all love in Tex-Mex cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, this dish minimizes mess and simplifies your cooking process.

Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap out proteins, or add your favorite toppings for a personalized burrito bowl.

Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for making ahead and storing for quick, delicious lunches or dinners.

Full of Flavor: Bold Tex-Mex spices, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice come together for a taste explosion in every bite.

Balanced Meal: Packed with protein, grains, and veggies, this burrito bowl is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Rice and Veggies:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small yellow onion, diced

For Toppings:

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 avocado, diced or sliced
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Toss the diced chicken with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

1. In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion and bell pepper over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Liquid

1. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and frozen corn. Mix well to combine.
2. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, distributing it evenly among the ingredients.

Step 4: Cook Everything Together

1. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
2. Remove from heat and let the mixture rest for 5 minutes with the lid on. Fluff the rice with a fork.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve

1. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the warm burrito bowl mixture, allowing it to melt.
2. Top with avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately.

Ingredient Background

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. Thighs add extra juiciness, while breasts are leaner.

Long-Grain Rice: Long-grain rice ensures a light, fluffy texture. Brown rice adds more fiber but requires a longer cooking time.

Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Adds a slight tang and a hint of heat to the dish. You can substitute plain diced tomatoes if preferred.

Black Beans: A great source of protein and fiber, black beans make the dish heartier and more nutritious.

Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika provide the signature Tex-Mex flavor profile.

Technique Tips

Toast the Rice: For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the rice in the pan for 1–2 minutes before adding the liquid.

Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low once the mixture is simmering to ensure even cooking and prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Let it Rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld and the rice settle.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Lettuce Wraps: Serve the chicken burrito mixture in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb alternative.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Hollow out large bell peppers and fill them with the burrito bowl mixture before baking at 375°F for 20 minutes.

Nacho Platter: Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet and top with the chicken burrito bowl mixture. Add extra cheese and bake until bubbly for a fun party snack.

Wraps: Roll the mixture in large flour tortillas to create burritos or wraps.

Additional Tips for Success

Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from clumping.

Control the Spice: Adjust the chili powder and smoked paprika to suit your heat tolerance. Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Use Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds brightness and enhances the Tex-Mex flavors. Avoid bottled lime juice for the best results.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with diced tofu, tempeh, or extra beans for a meat-free version.

Seafood Option: Swap the chicken for shrimp, adding them during the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.

Cheesy Delight: Mix in cream cheese or queso fresco for an extra creamy texture.

Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrients and variety.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the rice has dried out.

Freezing: Cool the burrito bowl mixture completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tip: When reheating, cover the dish to trap steam and keep the rice moist.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Weeknight Dinner: Serve with tortilla chips and guacamole for a quick and satisfying family meal.

Party Platter: Arrange the burrito bowl mixture in a large serving dish and set up a topping bar with sour cream, cheese, salsa, and avocado for guests to customize their plates.

Meal Prep: Divide the mixture into individual meal prep containers with toppings stored separately for quick lunches throughout the week.

Game Day Spread: Serve as a part of a Tex-Mex buffet alongside nachos, tacos, and salsa for a fun and flavorful game-day feast.

Special Equipment

Large Skillet: A deep skillet or sauté pan is essential for cooking all the ingredients evenly in one pan.

Lid: A tight-fitting lid is necessary to cook the rice properly and trap steam for fluffy grains.

Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients without scratching your pan.

Citrus Juicer: Makes squeezing fresh lime juice quick and easy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked rice. Add it during the last 5–7 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.

2. What if I don’t have a lid for my skillet?
Cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and cook the rice properly.

3. Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for an extra kick.

4. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

5. How do I make this dairy-free?
Omit the cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.

6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger skillet or divide the ingredients between two pans for larger batches.

7. What other toppings can I add?
Try pico de gallo, salsa verde, pickled jalapeños, or crumbled queso fresco for added flavor.

8. Can I use frozen chicken?
If using frozen chicken, ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve proper browning.

Conclusion

The One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is a true testament to how simple ingredients and smart techniques can come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors, tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant toppings, it’s a meal that hits all the right notes for flavor, nutrition, and convenience. By cooking everything in a single pan, you save time and effort while delivering a dish that feels indulgent yet is incredibly practical for busy days.

This recipe’s versatility is one of its biggest strengths. Whether you’re serving it as a family-friendly dinner, a casual gathering centerpiece, or prepping meals for the week, the One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl can be easily adapted to suit any occasion or dietary preference. The addition of fresh toppings like avocado, lime, and cilantro brings brightness and balance, making it a truly satisfying experience with every bite.

So, the next time you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare, turn to this recipe. It’s more than just a dinner, it’s a one-pan solution to flavorful, hassle-free cooking that you’ll find yourself making time and time again. With its vibrant flavors and endless customization options, this burrito bowl is sure to become a household favorite. Treat your family or guests to this delightful dish, and watch it disappear in no time!

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