Making The Chipotle Burrito Bowl At Home

Making The Chipotle Burrito Bowl At Home is a medium Mexican recipe that serves 4. 1100 calories per serving. Recipe by Joshua Weissman on YouTube.

Prep: 35 min | Cook: 5 hrs 10 min | Total: 6 hrs 5 min

Cost: $237.11 total, $59.28 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 lb Wagyu Brisket (fatty, trimmed into large chunks)
  • 2 lb Beef Cheeks (trimmed, cut into pieces)
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil (for searing)
  • 12 clove Garlic (8 for braise, 4 for beans)
  • 3 piece Bay Leaves
  • 1 piece Cinnamon Stick
  • 4 piece Guajillo Chilies (whole, stems removed)
  • 2 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 2 cup Beef Stock (low‑sodium)
  • 2 piece Lime (juiced, zest of one used later)
  • 1 lb Pinto Beans (dry, rinsed)
  • 6 oz Bacon (cut into 1‑inch cubes)
  • 0.5 lb Chorizo (crumbled)
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes
  • 1 piece Yellow Onion (finely diced)
  • 2 piece Serrano Chilies (thinly sliced with seeds)
  • 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Dried Mexican Oregano
  • 0.25 tsp Ground Cinnamon
  • 1 tsp Chipotle Powder
  • 2 cup Chicken Stock (low‑sodium)
  • 2 cup Medium Grain Rice (washed)
  • 0.33 cup Unsalted Butter (cut into pieces)
  • 0.5 cup Cilantro (finely chopped, plus stems for salsa)
  • 1 lb Tomatillos (husked)
  • 1 piece Sweet Onion (halved, peeled)
  • 2 piece Jalapeños (charred, skins removed)
  • 0.33 cup Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 piece Avocado (seeded, peeled, sliced)
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (grated)
  • 1 cup Low‑Moisture Mozzarella (grated)
  • 0.5 cup Sour Cream (plain)

Instructions

  1. Trim and Season Beef

    Pat the brisket and beef cheeks dry, trim excess silver skin, and cut into large chunks. Season generously with salt.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Sear the Beef

    Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over high heat until shimmering. Add the beef pieces in a single layer, searing each side about 3 minutes until deep brown. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: high heat

  3. Braise the Beef

    Return all seared beef to the pot. Add garlic cloves, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, whole guajillo chilies, ground cumin, beef stock, and the juice (and bodies) of two limes. Bring to a light simmer, cover, and place in a pre‑heated oven at 350°F for 3 hours, checking once to add more stock if needed.

    Time: PT3H

    Temperature: 350°F

  4. Shred the Barbacoa

    Remove the tender beef from the pot and shred with two forks or by hand. Return the shredded meat to the braising liquid and stir in the rendered fat; season with additional salt if needed.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Prepare Pinto Beans

    Rinse 1 lb dry pinto beans and place in a large pot with at least 4 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer, adding water as needed, until beans are tender (about 1 hour).

    Time: PT1H5M

    Temperature: medium simmer

  6. Cook Bacon and Chorizo

    In a separate skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon cubes until crisp and browned, about 3–5 minutes. Add the crumbled chorizo and continue cooking until fully cooked, about 2 minutes.

    Time: PT7M

    Temperature: medium

  7. Add Vegetables and Spices to Beans

    To the bacon‑chorizo mixture add cherry tomatoes, diced yellow onion, sliced serrano chilies, and sliced garlic. Sauté 1–2 minutes until the tomatoes begin to burst. Stir in smoked paprika, Mexican oregano, ground cinnamon, and chipotle powder; toast for 1 minute.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: medium‑high

  8. Simmer the Charro Beans

    Add 2 cups chicken stock and the cooked pinto beans (including a couple of tablespoons of their cooking water) to the skillet. Stir, bring to a simmer, and cook 10 minutes so the flavors meld. Adjust salt generously.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: medium

  9. Wash and Cook Rice

    Rinse 2 cups medium‑grain rice until water runs clear. Transfer to a rice cooker, add 2 cups water, and start the cooking cycle (approximately 20 minutes).

    Time: PT25M

  10. Finish Cilantro‑Lime Rice

    When the rice is done, fluff it into a large bowl. Add the zest of one lime, 1/3 cup unsalted butter, and gently fold until butter coats each grain. Season with salt, stir in ½ cup chopped cilantro and the juice of 1–2 limes. Mix gently to keep grains separate.

    Time: PT5M

  11. Char Tomatillos, Onion, and Jalapeños

    Place husked tomatillos, halved sweet onion, and whole jalapeños on a wire rack over a high flame or grill. Char until lightly blackened in spots (about 8‑10 minutes), turning occasionally. Remove and let steam in a covered bowl for 5 minutes.

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: high flame

  12. Blend Salsa Verde

    Transfer the charred tomatillos, onion, and jalapeños (seeds and stems removed) to a blender. Add ½ bunch cilantro, 7 garlic cloves, ⅓ cup fresh lime juice, and salt to taste. Blend until smooth.

    Time: PT5M

  13. Prepare Accoutrements

    Slice the avocados, grate Monterey Jack and mozzarella together, and set plain sour cream aside.

    Time: PT5M

  14. Assemble the Burrito Bowl

    In a serving bowl, layer cilantro‑lime rice, then a generous scoop of charro beans, a handful of the cheese blend, sliced avocado, shredded barbacoa beef, a dollop of sour cream, and a spoonful of salsa verde. Finish with a few fresh cilantro leaves and an optional drizzle of hot sauce.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
1100
Protein
45 g
Carbohydrates
95 g
Fat
55 g
Fiber
12 g

Dietary info: High‑protein, Gluten‑free, Nut‑free

Allergens: Dairy, Eggs (none present but cross‑contamination possible in kitchen), None (gluten‑free)

Last updated: April 16, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Making The Chipotle Burrito Bowl At Home

Recipe by Joshua Weissman

A detailed recreation of Chipotle's famous burrito bowl, featuring tender braised beef barbacoa, smoky charro beans, cilantro-lime rice, fresh salsa verde, avocado, and a blend of Monterey Jack and mozzarella. Made from scratch with step‑by‑step instructions for home cooks.

MediumMexicanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
45m
Prep
5h 7m
Cook
42m
Cleanup
6h 34m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$237.11
Total cost
$59.28
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Braising the beef for 3 hours at 350°F until fork‑tender.
  • Shredding the barbacoa while retaining its rendered fat.
  • Cooking the charro beans with bacon, chorizo, and smoked spices.
  • Charred tomatillos, onion, and jalapeños for authentic smoky salsa verde.
  • Finishing the rice with butter, lime zest, and cilantro without breaking grains.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle raw beef with separate cutting board and wash hands thoroughly.
  • Use oven mitts when removing the hot braising pot.
  • Charred peppers release capsaicin vapors; ventilate the kitchen.
  • Be careful when blending hot salsa – vent the blender lid slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of the Chipotle Burrito Bowl in Mexican‑American cuisine?

A

The burrito bowl originated from the fast‑casual Mexican‑American trend of de‑constructing the traditional burrito to highlight each component. Chipotle popularized it nationwide, offering a customizable, healthier‑looking option that reflects the blend of Mexican flavors with American convenience.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of a burrito bowl in Tex‑Mex cuisine?

A

In Texas, burrito bowls often feature grilled steak, black beans, and a smoky chipotle sauce, while in California they may include grilled chicken, corn salsa, and avocado. The core idea—rice, beans, protein, and fresh toppings—remains consistent across regions.

cultural
Q

How is a traditional Chipotle burrito bowl served in the United States?

A

It is typically served in a clear plastic bowl with layers of cilantro‑lime rice, seasoned beans, a choice of protein, shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and fresh toppings like lettuce and cilantro. The presentation emphasizes visual contrast and easy mixing before eating.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is the Chipotle burrito bowl traditionally associated with in American fast‑casual dining?

A

The bowl is a go‑to meal for quick lunches, post‑work gatherings, and casual dinner parties because it is fast, customizable, and can be prepared ahead for crowds. It is also popular for game‑day meals and weekend brunches.

cultural
Q

How does the Chipotle burrito bowl fit into the broader Mexican‑American cuisine tradition?

A

It embodies the Mexican‑American emphasis on bold, layered flavors while adapting to American preferences for convenience and portion control. The bowl format showcases the balance of carbs, protein, and fresh vegetables that define modern Tex‑Mex fare.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Chipotle’s barbacoa compared to acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional barbacoa uses beef cheek or brisket slow‑cooked with chilies, cumin, garlic, and citrus. Acceptable substitutes include chuck roast or short rib, and you can replace guajillo chilies with ancho chilies while keeping the smoky profile.

cultural
Q

What other Mexican dishes pair well with the Chipotle burrito bowl?

A

Pairs nicely with fresh guacamole, elote (Mexican street corn), a side of queso fresco, or a chilled agua fresca. For a fuller meal, serve with a simple cucumber‑lime salad or a bowl of pozole.

cultural
Q

What makes the Chipotle burrito bowl special or unique in Mexican‑American cuisine?

A

Its uniqueness lies in the de‑construction of the burrito, allowing each component—cilantro‑lime rice, smoky beans, tender barbacoa, and fresh salsa—to shine individually while still delivering the classic flavor harmony of a burrito.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the Chipotle burrito bowl at home?

A

Common errors include over‑cooking the beef so it dries out, under‑seasoning the beans, using too much water for the rice, and over‑charring the salsa ingredients. Follow the timing and seasoning cues in the recipe to avoid these pitfalls.

technical
Q

Why does this Chipotle burrito bowl recipe use a long oven braise for the beef instead of a pressure cooker?

A

The slow oven braise allows the connective tissue to break down gently, creating melt‑in‑your‑mouth tenderness while preserving the nuanced flavor of the chilies and aromatics. A pressure cooker can achieve tenderness faster but may mute the subtle smoky notes.

technical
Q

Can I make the Chipotle burrito bowl ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Prepare the barbacoa, beans, rice, and salsa separately. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave and assemble just before serving.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Joshua Weissman specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Joshua Weissman focuses on detailed, technique‑driven home cooking tutorials, often recreating popular restaurant dishes from scratch with an emphasis on flavor, craftsmanship, and culinary education.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Joshua Weissman's approach to Mexican cooking differ from other Mexican cooking channels?

A

Joshua Weissman blends classic Mexican flavor profiles with rigorous culinary fundamentals, such as precise braising and char techniques, whereas many Mexican channels prioritize quick assembly or street‑food shortcuts. His videos often include deep dives into ingredient sourcing and technique.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Homemade Burrito Bowls
3

Homemade Burrito Bowls

A hearty, restaurant‑quality burrito bowl inspired by Chipotle, featuring slow‑cooked shredded beef, cilantro‑lime rice, black beans, and a rich triple‑cheese queso that melts into every bite.

2 hrs 50 minServes 4$22
Mexican
How To Make Tacos!!! Crispy Beef Taco Recipe
4

How To Make Tacos!!! Crispy Beef Taco Recipe

A Tex‑Mex favorite – crunchy corn taco shells filled with super‑fine seasoned ground beef, topped with cheese, shredded cabbage and a bright green salsa. The recipe includes a simple trick to make your own extra‑crisp tortillas at home.

1 hr 10 minServes 4$12
Tex-Mex
Mexican Tortas Are the Ultimate Sandwich for Meat Lovers
3

Mexican Tortas Are the Ultimate Sandwich for Meat Lovers

A gourmet Mexican torta featuring overnight‑marinated, barbacoa‑style braised lamb belly, a creamy garbanzo‑black bean spread, pickled tomatillos, and melted Oaxaca cheese on a soft telera roll. Served with a rich lamb jus for dipping.

62 hrs 20 minServes 4$28
Mexican
Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowls
4

Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowls

A flavorful Mexican-inspired chipotle chicken burrito bowl packed with smoky chicken, lime‑bright jasmine rice, black beans, corn, fresh tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, cheese, and a creamy sriracha‑yogurt sauce. Perfect for meal‑prepping; it stores well in the fridge or freezer.

1 hr 5 minServes 5$23
Mexican
The ULTIMATE birria tacos recipe
6

The ULTIMATE birria tacos recipe

Slow‑braised oxtail birria packed with toasted spices, chilies, tomatoes, and aromatics, shredded and served in crisp corn tortillas with onion, cilantro, lime and optional cheese. A rich, flavorful Mexican taco perfect for a weekend feast.

5 hrs 46 minServes 4$20
Mexican
The BEST BIRRIA YOU CAN EVER MAKE AT HOME
12

The BEST BIRRIA YOU CAN EVER MAKE AT HOME

A step‑by‑step guide to making rich, tender beef birria with a smoky adobo sauce, then serving it in crispy cheese‑filled tacos. This Mexican classic is perfect for gatherings and delivers deep flavor without any shortcuts.

2 hrs 35 minServes 6$57
Mexican
Birria tacos will appear under your pillow tonight!
2

Birria tacos will appear under your pillow tonight!

A hearty Puerto Rican‑style taco made with richly seasoned oxtail and beef chuck roast, slow‑braised in a spicy whole‑spice sauce, then shredded and crisped in a tortilla with melted cheese. Finished with fresh cilantro, onion, and lime, these tacos are bold, juicy, and perfect for a comforting dinner.

4 hrs 55 minServes 4$19
Puerto Rican
Soft Potato Taco Bowl
3

Soft Potato Taco Bowl

A hearty, Tex-Mex style potato bowl inspired by Taco Bell. Crispy roasted Yukon Gold potatoes are tossed in Cajun and chipotle spices, topped with seasoned ground beef, fresh pico de gallo, shredded cheese, guacamole, and sour cream. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

1 hr 10 minServes 4$13
Tex-Mex