Chicken Burrito Bowls
Chicken Burrito Bowls is a easy Tex-Mex recipe that serves 4. 450 calories per serving. Recipe by Spend With Pennies on YouTube.
Prep: 9 min | Cook: 29 min | Total: 48 min
Cost: $8.09 total, $2.02 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Long Grain White Rice (rinsed)
- 2 cups Water (for cooking rice)
- 0.25 cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
- 4 tablespoons Lime Juice (freshly squeezed (about 2 limes))
- 1.5 pounds Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless, trimmed)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for pan‑searing)
- 2 tablespoons Seasoning Blend (e.g., taco seasoning, salt, pepper)
- 1 large Ripe Avocado (peeled, pitted)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (optional, to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
Cook Cilantro Lime Rice
Rinse the rice until water runs clear. Combine rice and 2 cups water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, let sit 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro and 2 tablespoons lime juice.
Time: PT20M
Season and Cook Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry, rub both sides with the seasoning blend, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium‑high heat. Add chicken and cook 5‑6 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 3 minutes before slicing.
Time: PT12M
Temperature: Medium‑high heat
Blend Avocado Lime Sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, remaining 2 tablespoons lime juice, a pinch of salt, and a splash of water (optional) and blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Time: PT2M
Assemble the Burrito Bowls
Divide the cilantro lime rice among four bowls. Top each with sliced chicken, a generous drizzle of avocado lime sauce, and any optional toppings you love (e.g., black beans, corn, shredded cheese, salsa, lettuce). Serve immediately or let cool for meal‑prep storage.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 450
- Protein
- 30g
- Carbohydrates
- 45g
- Fat
- 15g
- Fiber
- 6g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free, High-Protein, Low-Sugar, Dairy-Free
Allergens: None
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Long Grain White Rice: Brown rice, Quinoa
- Instead of Fresh Cilantro: Fresh parsley
- Instead of Lime Juice: Lemon juice
- Instead of Chicken Breast: Turkey breast, Chicken thighs
- Instead of Olive Oil: Canola oil, vegetable oil
- Instead of Seasoning Blend: Cajun seasoning, Italian herbs
- Instead of Ripe Avocado: Greek yogurt (for sauce), silken tofu
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Skillet
- Blender or Food Processor
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cooking the rice with the correct water ratio and letting it rest before fluffing.
- Ensuring chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking.
- Blending the avocado sauce to a smooth consistency without over‑processing.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Add a pinch of cumin to the chicken seasoning for extra depth.
- Toast the cilantro briefly in a dry pan for a nuttier flavor before mixing into the rice.
- For extra creaminess, blend in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt with the avocado sauce.
Troubleshooting
Rice turns out mushy or sticky.
Use the correct water ratio (1 cup rice to 2 cups water) and avoid lifting the lid while simmering. Let the rice rest uncovered for a few minutes after cooking.
Chicken is dry.
Do not overcook; cook until just golden and the internal temperature hits 165°F. Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
Avocado sauce is too thick.
Add water or a splash of lime juice one tablespoon at a time while blending until the desired consistency is reached.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store rice, chicken, and sauce in separate airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Cooked chicken freezes well for up to 2 months; rice can be frozen for 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
Room temperature: Do not leave assembled bowls at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the rice and chicken a day ahead; store in the fridge and reheat before assembling.
- The avocado lime sauce keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days; give it a quick stir before using.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of chicken burrito bowls in Tex‑Mex cuisine?
Chicken burrito bowls are a modern, de‑constructed take on the classic burrito, reflecting the fast‑casual trend of serving layered meals in a bowl. They combine traditional Mexican flavors—cumin‑spiced chicken, cilantro, lime—with the convenience of meal‑prep, making them popular across the United States.
What are the traditional regional variations of burrito bowls in Mexican‑inspired cuisine?
In northern Mexico, burrito bowls often feature grilled carne asada, pinto beans, and queso fresco, while in California‑style Tex‑Mex they use chicken, black beans, corn, and avocado. The sauce can vary from salsa verde to creamy chipotle or, as in this recipe, an avocado lime sauce.
How is a chicken burrito bowl traditionally served in Tex‑Mex restaurants?
Restaurants typically serve the bowl over a base of cilantro‑lime rice, topped with seasoned chicken, beans, corn, shredded cheese, lettuce, pico de gallo, and a drizzle of creamy sauce or sour cream. It is eaten with a fork and often accompanied by lime wedges.
What occasions or celebrations is the chicken burrito bowl associated with in Tex‑Mex culture?
Burrito bowls are popular for casual gatherings, game‑day parties, and family weeknight meals because they are easy to customize, portion, and serve. They are also a staple for meal‑prep for busy workweeks.
What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional chicken burrito bowl versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include fresh cilantro, lime juice, chicken seasoned with cumin‑chili blend, and a creamy avocado‑lime sauce. Substitutes can be parsley for cilantro, lemon juice for lime, turkey breast for chicken, or Greek yogurt mixed with avocado for a lighter sauce.
What other Tex‑Mex dishes pair well with chicken burrito bowls?
Serve alongside chips and guacamole, a side of Mexican street corn (elote), or a simple cucumber‑tomato salad with lime dressing. A chilled agua fresca or a light margarita also complements the flavors.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making chicken burrito bowls at home?
Common errors include overcooking the chicken, using too much water for the rice, and not seasoning the sauce enough. Also, assembling the bowl too early can make the rice soggy; keep components separate until serving.
Why does this recipe use a blender for the avocado lime sauce instead of mashing by hand?
Blending creates a uniformly smooth, emulsified sauce that coats the bowl evenly, whereas hand‑mashing can leave lumps and result in an uneven texture. The brief blend also incorporates a little air, making the sauce lighter.
Can I make the chicken burrito bowl ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Cook the rice and chicken a day ahead, store each in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and keep the avocado sauce separate. Assemble the bowls just before eating; they will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
What does the YouTube channel Spend With Pennies specialize in?
The YouTube channel Spend With Pennies focuses on affordable, budget‑friendly cooking and meal‑prep ideas, offering step‑by‑step tutorials that emphasize cost‑effective ingredients and minimal waste.
How does the YouTube channel Spend With Pennies' approach to Tex‑Mex cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Spend With Pennies emphasizes low‑cost, pantry‑friendly versions of Tex‑Mex favorites, often using everyday grocery items and simple techniques, whereas many other channels may rely on specialty ingredients or more elaborate preparations.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
