Name: Easy One Pot Burrito Bowls: Flavorful Comfort in a Hurry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil (can use avocado oil); 1 pound chicken breast (boneless and skinless); 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1 can black beans (drained); 1 cup frozen corn (or fresh when in season); 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 onion diced (yellow or white); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); cilantro (for garnish); avocado (for garnish); sour cream (for garnish); lime (for garnish)

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After a whirlwind day filled with meetings and errands, the thought of whipping up dinner can feel overwhelming. But just when I thought I’d be resorting to takeout again, inspiration struck: One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls! This vibrant, comforting dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory black beans in one easy-to-clean pot.

Imagine the luscious aroma of spices wafting through your kitchen as you sauté onions and garlic, coaxing every bit of flavor from the ingredients. Each mouthful bursts with the zesty essence of Tex-Mex goodness, making this bowl a serious crowd-pleaser. Plus, you can easily adapt it for vegetarian friends or use whatever grains you have on hand—life is too short for boring meals!

Say goodbye to the same old routine and hello to this flavorful feast that not only seems like a labor of love but takes just a fraction of the effort. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to bring a warm smile to your dinner table!

Why will you adore One Pot Burrito Bowls?

Bold flavors: Each bite is a fiesta for your taste buds, infused with the warmth of Mexican spices.
One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and less time battling dirty dishes!
Customizable: Make it your own by swapping proteins or adding veggies; the options are endless!
Quick and easy: Perfect for hectic weeknights, this dish comes together in just one pot in under 30 minutes.
Meal prep friendly: Prepare a big batch ahead of time for convenient lunches or dinners throughout the week. For a colorful twist, try these Colorful Pot Black bowls alongside your burrito bowls!

One Pot Burrito Bowls Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

Chicken breast – Main protein source; boneless and skinless makes for easier preparation.
Olive oil – Ideal for sautéing; you can use avocado oil if you prefer a different taste.
Onion (diced) – Adds flavor and sweetness; both yellow and white onions work great.
Garlic (minced) – Enhances taste and aroma; fresh is best, or garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
Long-grain white rice – The foundation for your dish; brown rice can be used for added fiber, but adjust liquid and cooking time as needed.
Chicken broth – Adds moisture and delicious flavor; vegetable broth makes a perfect swap for a vegetarian version.
Black beans (drained) – Provides protein and fiber; canned beans are convenient, while dried beans need longer cooking.

For the Veggies and Spices

Frozen corn – Adds sweetness and texture; fresh corn can be used when in season.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies – Offers moisture and a hint of spice; choose according to your heat preference, mild or hot.
Spices (chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper) – Elevates the flavor profile of the dish; feel free to adjust for your palate.

For the Toppings

Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) – Creaminess and flavor; omit for a dairy-free version.
Toppings (cilantro, avocado, sour cream, lime) – Fresh additions that customize each serving for enhanced flavor.

This One Pot Burrito Bowls recipe is not only gluten-free but also a meal prep-friendly choice that flavors any weeknight!

How to Make One Pot Burrito Bowls

Heat Oil: In a large skillet or pot, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This creates a flavorful base for your dish.
Brown Chicken: Add cubed chicken breast to the pot. Cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking.
Sauté Aromatics: Stir in 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
Incorporate Rice: Add 1 cup of uncooked long-grain white rice, stirring it into the mixture until it’s well coated with the pan juices—this helps enhance the flavors.
Add Liquids: Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, then mix in 1 can of black beans (drained), 1 cup of frozen corn, 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and the spices: 1 tsp each of chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Bring to Boil: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and absorbs the liquids.
Melt Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Cover again to let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes.
Fluff & Serve: Fluff the rice and chicken mixture with a fork. Serve your One Pot Burrito Bowls hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like cilantro, avocado, sour cream, or lime wedges.

Optional: Add extra spice by topping with jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls?

Imagine a vibrant spread that complements the hearty flavors of your burrito bowls, creating a perfect dining experience.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: Their crunch adds an exciting texture and is perfect for scooping up that delicious rice and chicken!
Zesty Guacamole: Creamy and tangy, guacamole adds a delightful richness, enhancing the overall experience with its fresh flavor.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: The sweetness of corn mixed with chili and lime brings a refreshing contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory bowl.
Mixed Green Salad: Light and crisp, a simple salad dressed with lime vinaigrette brightens the meal and adds a refreshing bite.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream melts into the warm rice and chicken, offering a creamy coolness that balances the spices.
Margaritas: The tangy twist of a margarita embraces the Mexican vibe of the meal, making it a festive addition to your dining table.
Churros for Dessert: Sweet, cinnamon-sugar dusted churros provide a delightful end to your meal, offering a satisfying crunch with a sweet touch.

Serve these delightful items alongside your One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls for a full, delectable dinner experience!

Expert Tips for One Pot Burrito Bowls

Perfectly Brown Chicken: Don’t rush the browning process; it brings out deeper flavors making your One Pot Burrito Bowls even more delicious.
Rice Cooking Adjustments: If using brown rice, remember to increase the liquid and cooking time to about 40-45 minutes for optimal texture.
Mushy Rice Prevention: To avoid mushy rice when freezing, slightly undercook it before freezing. It will firm up perfectly once reheated.
Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the chili powder to your liking; whether you prefer mild or spicy, don’t hesitate to make it your own in these One Pot Burrito Bowls.
Ingredient Swaps: Experiment with vegetables or different grains, such as quinoa or cauliflower rice, to keep your meals exciting and cater to various tastes.

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the chicken and rice mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until after adding the chicken broth, and then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for refrigeration. To maintain freshness, ensure it’s sealed tightly to prevent moisture loss. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat on the stove over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to heat through. Add shredded cheese during the last few minutes to melt beautifully, and you’ll have a delicious, hassle-free dinner ready in no time!

How to Store and Freeze One Pot Burrito Bowls

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; the flavors will continue to deepen overnight, making your leftovers just as delicious.

Freezer: Freeze One Pot Burrito Bowls in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months; consider separating proteins and veggies for better texture when reheating.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or microwave; add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture as needed.

Room Temperature: Leftovers should not sit out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain flavor quality.

Burrito Bowl Variations

Feel free to play around with these ideas, making your One Pot Burrito Bowls reflect your unique taste and dietary needs!

Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with extra black beans, lentils, or your favorite sautéed veggies for a hearty, meatless option. Consider adding sweet potatoes for an extra depth of flavor.
Dairy-Free: Omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Top with avocado and a squeeze of lime for a creamy finish without the dairy.
Spice it Up: If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to enhance the flavor profile and give it more of a kick.
Whole Grains: Swap long-grain white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or farro. Just remember to adjust the liquid and cooking times for perfect results each time!
Flavor Boost: Incorporate a tablespoon of taco seasoning or chipotle powder into the mix for an extra burst of taco-inspired flavors that will delight your palate.
Different Beans: Get creative with different beans like pinto beans or kidney beans for a new twist. Mixing types can add interesting textures to each bite.
Fresh Herbs: Toss in fresh cilantro or green onions before serving for a pop of color and freshness. It elevates the dish while adding a fragrant note that complements the spices beautifully.
Topping Variations: Experiment with toppings like pickled onions, corn salsa, or even a drizzle of hot sauce. Each option adds an exciting new layer of flavor to your bowls!

One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls Recipe FAQs

How should I select ripe ingredients for my One-Pot Burrito Bowls?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose ripe tomatoes that are firm and smooth without dark spots. When selecting onions, opt for ones that feel heavy and are free from soft spots. For avocados, a slight give when gently squeezed indicates ripeness, ensuring that they’re perfect for your toppings!

What are the best ways to store One-Pot Burrito Bowls?
You can store your One-Pot Burrito Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let them cool to room temperature before sealing. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the leftovers a delight to enjoy!

Can I freeze One-Pot Burrito Bowls, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze One-Pot Burrito Bowls! To do this, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. For best results, I recommend separating the chicken and veggies before freezing to maintain texture. The bowls will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

What can I do if my rice comes out mushy after cooking?
If you find your rice is mushy, it may be due to overcooking or too much liquid. To remedy this, I suggest slightly undercooking your rice if you plan to freeze the dish, as it will firm up during reheating. If you’re in the kitchen and realize the rice is mushy, you can spread it out on a baking sheet to help it cool and dry out a bit before serving!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very much so! One-Pot Burrito Bowls can be made gluten-free by ensuring all your ingredients, especially the broth and spices, are labeled as such. For those with dairy allergies, simply omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative. As for pets, avoid sharing any seasoned ingredients or toppings like avocado, which can be harmful to them.

Can I customize the ingredients in my One-Pot Burrito Bowls?
The more the merrier! This dish is extremely versatile. You can swap chicken for pre-cooked shredded chicken or even use tofu for a vegetarian version! You can also mix in different veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Experiment with grains too, like quinoa or cauliflower rice, to keep things fresh and exciting!