Description
This Chicken Burrito Protein Bowl is a flavorful and nutritious meal that combines marinated and pan-cooked chicken with zesty cilantro lime rice, fresh vegetables, and creamy guacamole. Perfectly balanced and rich in protein, this dish makes a satisfying lunch or dinner that's easy to prepare and full of vibrant, bold flavors.
Ingredients
Marinated Chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 chipotle chilis in adobo sauce (finely chopped, plus 1 ½ tablespoon adobo sauce)
- 1 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breast (cut into strips)
Cilantro Lime Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 1 ½ cups water
- ¼ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- 1 lime (zested plus 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
Bowl Toppings
- 1 head romaine lettuce (chopped)
- 1 cup tomatoes (diced)
- 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (rinsed and drained)
- ½ small red onion (chopped)
- Guacamole (or diced avocado)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, finely chopped chipotle chilis, adobo sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Add the chicken strips and toss thoroughly to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, up to overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and add it to the hot pan. Cook the chicken, stirring frequently, until it is cooked through and no longer pink inside, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Cilantro Lime Rice: Bring 1 ½ cups of water to a boil in a pot with ¼ teaspoon salt. Add the rinsed rice, return to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and additional salt to taste for a fresh and zesty flavor.
- Assemble the Protein Bowl: In each serving bowl, layer the cilantro lime rice and chopped romaine lettuce. Top with the cooked chicken strips, diced tomatoes, thawed corn, rinsed black beans, chopped red onion, and a generous helping of guacamole or diced avocado. Serve immediately for a vibrant and balanced meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor even more, but 2 hours is sufficient if short on time.
- Use fresh lime juice for best taste in both marinade and rice.
- Can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier option, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- The black beans can be warmed if preferred, or served cold right from the can.
- If you want to add extra crunch, consider topping with tortilla strips or toasted pepitas.
- Prep Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch/Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican