Easy One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowls Recipe
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Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients That Sing
- The Clock is Ticking: Timing is Everything
- Step-by-Step Journey to Flavor
- Fueling Your Body: Nutritional Highlights
- Healthier Twists, Same Great Taste
- Serving Suggestions to Wow Your Guests
- Navigating Common Pitfalls
- Storing Your Delicious Creation
- The Final Flourish
- Frequently Asked Questions
Easy One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowls Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a quick weeknight dinner that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor? If so, you’re in the right place! This Easy One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is a game-changer. Imagine tender, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and a vibrant medley of beans, corn, and vegetables, all cooked together in a single pan. It’s the ultimate hearty, healthy, and incredibly satisfying meal that comes together with minimal fuss. Forget the mountain of dishes; we’re talking about pure, unadulterated flavor with just one pan to wash. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student on a budget, or simply someone who craves a delicious meal without the kitchen chaos, this recipe is designed for you. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings, making each bowl a personal masterpiece. Let’s dive into how to create this culinary marvel!
Ingredients That Sing
The beauty of this one-pan wonder lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its ingredients. We’ve selected vibrant components that cook beautifully together, creating a symphony of textures and tastes. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken & Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for a light, fruity note)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder (earthy and warm)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (smoky and fragrant)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a depth of smoky sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (pungent and savory)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (mildly sweet and savory)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a gentle kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste (essential for bringing out all the flavors)
- Juice of 1/2 lime (a bright, zesty finish)
For the Rice & Veggies:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (foundation for sautéing)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (adds a sweet and savory base)
- 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped (for vibrant crunch and sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (aromatic and pungent)
- 1.5 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed well (fluffy base for our bowl)
Substitution: Brown rice can be used, but may require a longer cooking time and a bit more liquid. - 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth (for cooking the rice and infusing flavor)
Substitution: Water can be used in a pinch, but broth adds a richer flavor. - 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained (creamy and protein-rich)
Substitution: Kidney beans or pinto beans work wonderfully as well. - 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained (sweet pops of sunshine)
Substitution: Frozen corn can be used; add it in the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. - 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for a fresh, herbaceous lift)
For the Optional Toppings:
- Diced avocado (creamy and rich)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (cool and tangy)
- Salsa (for an extra kick of flavor)
- Chopped red onion or scallions (sharp bite)
- Fresh lime wedges (to brighten every bite)
The Clock is Ticking: Timing is Everything
Compared to traditional burrito bowls that often involve cooking components separately, this one-pan method significantly trims down the total time. Most recipes for similar dishes can take upwards of an hour when you factor in separate cooking for meat, rice, and veggies. Our method streamlines the process, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Journey to Flavor
Embarking on this culinary adventure is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring your delicious one-pan chicken burrito bowls in no time!
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the cut chicken pieces with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the flavorful spices. Squeeze the lime juice over the chicken and toss once more. This simple marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and mostly cooked through. We’re not looking for it to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking with the rice and vegetables.
Step 3: Add Rice and Veggies
Push the chicken to one side of the skillet. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the empty side. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and the peppers are slightly tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Now, add the rinsed rice to the skillet, stirring it around for about a minute to toast it slightly.
Step 4: Simmer and Steam
Pour the chicken broth evenly over the chicken, rice, and vegetables. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, stir in the rinsed black beans and corn. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid (or foil if your skillet doesn’t have a lid). Let it simmer and steam for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this releases the steam needed to cook the rice perfectly.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
Once the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from the heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the fresh cilantro, if using. The mixture should be moist but not soupy. Serve the chicken and rice mixture directly from the pan into bowls. Top generously with your favorite fresh toppings like creamy avocado, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of salsa, or a sprinkle of fresh red onion. A final squeeze of lime juice always elevates the flavors. Enjoy your vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal!
Fueling Your Body: Nutritional Highlights
This one-pan chicken burrito bowl is a nutritional powerhouse, offering a balanced blend of lean protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, a typical serving is rich in:
- Protein: From the chicken and beans, crucial for muscle repair and satiety.
- Fiber: Abundant in the beans, corn, and rice, promoting digestive health and helping you feel full longer.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Bell peppers and corn provide Vitamin C and antioxidants, while beans offer iron and folate.
- Complex Carbohydrates: From the rice, providing sustained energy.
(Note: Specific calorie and macro counts would depend on exact quantities and optional toppings added.)
Healthier Twists, Same Great Taste
Looking to make this recipe even healthier without sacrificing flavor? Here are some simple swaps:
- Leaner Protein: Opt for chicken breast over thighs, or even use lean ground turkey.
- Whole Grains: Swap white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for added fiber and nutrients. Adjust cooking time and liquid as needed for brown rice or quinoa.
- More Veggies: Load up the pan with extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or diced sweet potatoes.
- Lighter Toppings: Choose plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and use avocado in moderation. Limit cheese or opt for a lower-fat version.
- Reduced Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and rinse beans thoroughly.
Serving Suggestions to Wow Your Guests
This dish is incredibly versatile! Serve it piping hot directly from the skillet. To elevate the presentation and experience:
- Build-Your-Own Bar: Set out all the optional toppings in separate bowls and let everyone customize their own burrito bowl. This is a fun option for families or gatherings.
- Garnish: A generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a lime wedge on the side add freshness and visual appeal.
- Pairings: While a meal in itself, it pairs well with a simple side salad or tortilla chips for scooping.
Navigating Common Pitfalls
Even with a simple recipe, a few common mistakes can be easily avoided:
- Too Much Liquid: Adding too much broth can result in mushy rice. Stick to the recommended amounts, and remember not to lift the lid excessively during cooking.
- Undercooked Rice: If the rice is still hard after the recommended cooking time, it might mean the heat was too high and the liquid evaporated too quickly, or the lid wasn’t sealed properly. Add a splash more broth if needed and continue to cook, covered.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Using a skillet that is too small can prevent the chicken from browning properly. Ensure your skillet is large enough to hold all ingredients in a single layer initially.
- Skipping the Rinse: Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, leading to fluffier, less sticky rice. Always rinse!
Storing Your Delicious Creation
Leftovers are incredibly easy to store and reheat.
- Refrigerator: Once cooled, store any leftover burrito bowl mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth, or microwave for a minute or two until heated through. If reheating as a bowl, it’s best to add fresh toppings after reheating to maintain their texture. You can also make a large batch and portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week.
The Final Flourish
There you have it – a simple, satisfying, and flavorful One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week. It proves that delicious, hearty meals don’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. With minimal prep and even less cleanup, you can enjoy a vibrant dish packed with wholesome ingredients and endless customization options. So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let this one-pan wonder simplify your dinner routine while delighting your taste buds. Don’t forget to tell us how it turned out in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
***Can I prepare the chicken and spices ahead of time?***
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the spice mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This can save you even more time on busy weeknights.
***What if I don’t have a large oven-safe skillet?***
No problem! You can use any large skillet or pot with a tight-fitting lid to cook the rice and vegetables. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, you can cook the chicken separately in a non-oven-safe skillet, then transfer it to your pot with the rice and veggies for the simmering step.
***Can I use different types of beans or vegetables?***
Yes! Feel free to substitute kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. Other versatile vegetables include zucchini, sweet potatoes (cut small for faster cooking), or spinach (stirred in at the end).
***How can I make this recipe spicier?***
To increase the heat, add more cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade, use a spicier chili powder, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables. Topping with a spicy salsa or hot sauce will also do the trick!
One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
ThisOne-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowlis a quick and hearty meal packed with seasoned chicken, tender rice, and a medley of beans, corn, and veggies. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup and plenty of flavor! Customize with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
Ingredients
- Chicken:1lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs2 tablespoonsolive oil1 teaspoonground cumin1 teaspoonchili powder1 teaspoongarlic powderSalt and pepper to tasteVegetables & Add-ins:1medium onion, diced1bell pepper, diced (red or green)1 cupcorn (canned or frozen)1can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drainedGrains & Liquid:1 cuplong-grain white or brown rice1.5 cupswater or chicken brothGarnish & Toppings:Juice of1limeFresh cilantro, choppedOptional: Avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños
- 1lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs2 tablespoonsolive oil1 teaspoonground cumin1 teaspoonchili powder1 teaspoongarlic powderSalt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoonsolive oil1 teaspoonground cumin1 teaspoonchili powder1 teaspoongarlic powderSalt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoonground cumin1 teaspoonchili powder1 teaspoongarlic powderSalt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoonchili powder1 teaspoongarlic powderSalt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoongarlic powderSalt and pepper to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetables & Add-ins:1medium onion, diced1bell pepper, diced (red or green)1 cupcorn (canned or frozen)1can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drainedGrains & Liquid:1 cuplong-grain white or brown rice1.5 cupswater or chicken brothGarnish & Toppings:Juice of1limeFresh cilantro, choppedOptional: Avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños
- 1medium onion, diced1bell pepper, diced (red or green)1 cupcorn (canned or frozen)1can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1bell pepper, diced (red or green)1 cupcorn (canned or frozen)1can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cupcorn (canned or frozen)1can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- Grains & Liquid:1 cuplong-grain white or brown rice1.5 cupswater or chicken brothGarnish & Toppings:Juice of1limeFresh cilantro, choppedOptional: Avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños
- 1 cuplong-grain white or brown rice1.5 cupswater or chicken broth
- 1.5 cupswater or chicken broth
- Garnish & Toppings:Juice of1limeFresh cilantro, choppedOptional: Avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños
- Juice of1limeFresh cilantro, choppedOptional: Avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños
- Fresh cilantro, choppedOptional: Avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños
- Optional: Avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños
Instructions
- 1️⃣Prepare Your Ingredients:Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.Chop the onion and bell pepper into small pieces.Rinse and drain the black beans, then set aside.2️⃣Cook the Chicken:Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.3️⃣Add Vegetables and Rice:Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.Stir in the rice, black beans, and corn, mixing thoroughly.4️⃣Simmer:Pour in 1.5 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.5️⃣Final Touches:Fluff the rice with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for added brightness.Garnish with chopped cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
- Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.Chop the onion and bell pepper into small pieces.Rinse and drain the black beans, then set aside.2️⃣Cook the Chicken:Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.3️⃣Add Vegetables and Rice:Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.Stir in the rice, black beans, and corn, mixing thoroughly.4️⃣Simmer:Pour in 1.5 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.5️⃣Final Touches:Fluff the rice with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for added brightness.Garnish with chopped cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
- Chop the onion and bell pepper into small pieces.
- Rinse and drain the black beans, then set aside.2️⃣Cook the Chicken:Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.3️⃣Add Vegetables and Rice:Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.Stir in the rice, black beans, and corn, mixing thoroughly.4️⃣Simmer:Pour in 1.5 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.5️⃣Final Touches:Fluff the rice with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for added brightness.Garnish with chopped cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
- 2️⃣Cook the Chicken:Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.3️⃣Add Vegetables and Rice:Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.Stir in the rice, black beans, and corn, mixing thoroughly.4️⃣Simmer:Pour in 1.5 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.5️⃣Final Touches:Fluff the rice with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for added brightness.Garnish with chopped cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.3️⃣Add Vegetables and Rice:Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.Stir in the rice, black beans, and corn, mixing thoroughly.4️⃣Simmer:Pour in 1.5 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.5️⃣Final Touches:Fluff the rice with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for added brightness.Garnish with chopped cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
- 3️⃣Add Vegetables and Rice:Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.Stir in the rice, black beans, and corn, mixing thoroughly.4️⃣Simmer:Pour in 1.5 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.5️⃣Final Touches:Fluff the rice with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for added brightness.Garnish with chopped cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the rice, black beans, and corn, mixing thoroughly.4️⃣Simmer:Pour in 1.5 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.5️⃣Final Touches:Fluff the rice with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for added brightness.Garnish with chopped cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
- 4️⃣Simmer:Pour in 1.5 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.5️⃣Final Touches:Fluff the rice with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for added brightness.Garnish with chopped cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
- Pour in 1.5 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.5️⃣Final Touches:Fluff the rice with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for added brightness.Garnish with chopped cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
- 5️⃣Final Touches:Fluff the rice with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for added brightness.Garnish with chopped cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
- Fluff the rice with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for added brightness.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
Notes
For extra flavor, swap water for chicken broth or add a splash of hot sauce to the liquid.Adjust spice levels by adding more chili powder or diced jalapeños.Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Adjust spice levels by adding more chili powder or diced jalapeños.Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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