Bring the bold flavors of the Southwest to your table with this colorful Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl. Featuring juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken served over fragrant cilantro lime rice, this hearty bowl is topped with creamy guacamole, crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and a drizzle of cool sour cream. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of smoky spices, fresh vegetables, and rich, satisfying textures.
Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a healthy lunch, this burrito bowl is easy to customize with your favorite toppings while offering a delicious restaurant-style meal made right at home.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Burrito Bowls
- 2 cups cooked cilantro lime rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup fresh guacamole
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 fresh lime
- Lime wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
Place the diced chicken in a large bowl. Sprinkle with the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer.
Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken develops a lightly browned exterior and is cooked all the way through. The chicken should be juicy on the inside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Prepare the Cilantro Lime Rice
If the rice has cooled, warm it gently before serving. Stir the cooked rice with the freshly chopped cilantro and squeeze the juice of one lime over the top. Mix well until the rice is light, fragrant, and evenly flavored.
4. Assemble the Burrito Bowls
Divide the cilantro lime rice evenly among four serving bowls to create the base.
Arrange the grilled chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, creamy guacamole, diced tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce in separate sections over the rice. Keeping the toppings separate creates a colorful presentation while allowing each ingredient to stand out.
5. Add the Finishing Touches
Drizzle the sour cream evenly over each bowl. Sprinkle with additional chopped cilantro and finish with a light pinch of freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor.
Serve each burrito bowl immediately with fresh lime wedges on the side so everyone can add an extra squeeze of citrus just before eating. The fresh lime juice brightens all the flavors and perfectly complements the smoky seasoned chicken.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes