Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls: A Fresh and Satisfying Meal

Hi I'm Emma

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on February 9, 2025

A Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl is the ultimate combination of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and satisfying textures, all in one nutritious bowl. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal prep option, an easy weeknight dinner, or a customizable dish that the whole family will love, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Packed with grilled marinated chicken, hearty rice, protein-rich beans, fresh vegetables, and creamy toppings, this dish is a flavorful twist on the traditional burrito—without the tortilla. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to fit different diets and preferences, making it a great option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl

1. A Healthier Alternative to Fast Food Burrito Bowls

Many restaurant-style burrito bowls can be loaded with sodium, unhealthy fats, and excess calories. Making them at home gives you full control over the ingredients, allowing you to prioritize fresh, whole foods while keeping the flavors just as bold and satisfying.

2. Customizable for Any Diet

This burrito bowl is highly versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs:

Low-carb/keto – Swap rice for cauliflower rice or extra greens.
Vegetarian – Replace the chicken with grilled tofu, tempeh, or extra beans.
Dairy-free – Skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
High-protein – Add extra chicken, beans, or Greek yogurt as a topping.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep

Burrito bowls are an excellent make-ahead meal because the ingredients store well separately. You can prepare everything in advance and assemble the bowls fresh when you’re ready to eat.

4. A Great Balance of Flavors & Textures

Every bite delivers a satisfying mix of smoky grilled chicken, fluffy rice, creamy avocado, zesty pico de gallo, and crunchy toppings. It’s a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you full and energized.

5. Quick and Easy to Make

This meal is simple to put together, especially if you use microwaveable rice, canned beans, and pre-shredded cheese. If you have leftover grilled chicken, the dish comes together in just minutes.

Fresh & Wholesome Ingredients

Marinated grilled chicken for bold, smoky flavor
Cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower) as a hearty base
Black beans for protein and fiber
Pico de gallo or salsa for a fresh, zesty kick
Shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cotija, or queso fresco) for richness
Avocado or guacamole for creaminess
Fresh cilantro and optional toppings like jalapeños, lettuce, or taco sauce

How to Build the Perfect Burrito Bowl

Marinate & Grill the Chicken – Coat the chicken in a chili-lime marinade, let it rest, then grill to juicy perfection.
Prepare the Ingredients – Cook rice, rinse beans, chop fresh toppings, and shred cheese.
Assemble the Bowl – Layer rice, grilled chicken, beans, pico de gallo, cheese, avocado, and toppings.
Serve & Enjoy – Mix everything together and dig in!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Bowl, Approximate)

Calories: ~500 kcal
Protein: ~40g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Fat: ~15g
Fiber: ~8g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a Burrito Bowl?

A burrito bowl is a deconstructed burrito served in a bowl instead of a tortilla. It includes all the classic burrito ingredients like rice, beans, grilled chicken, cheese, avocado, and salsa—but is more customizable and often a healthier alternative to a wrapped burrito.

2. What’s the Best Type of Chicken to Use?

Grilled chicken thighs are recommended because they are juicy, flavorful, and more forgiving than chicken breasts. However, you can also use:

Chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep.
Leftover grilled or baked chicken to save time.

3. Can I Use a Different Protein?

Absolutely! While chicken is a classic choice, this burrito bowl can also be made with:

Steak – Marinate and grill flank steak for a heartier version.
Shrimp – Quick-cooking and packed with protein.
Tofu or tempeh – Great plant-based alternatives.
Ground turkey or beef – Cooked with taco seasoning for extra flavor.

4. What’s the Best Type of Rice to Use?

White rice – Classic and fluffy, absorbs flavors well.
Brown rice – Higher in fiber and adds a nutty taste.
Cauliflower rice – A low-carb alternative.
Cilantro lime rice – Adds a zesty twist to the bowl.

5. How Do I Keep the Chicken Juicy and Flavorful?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for maximum flavor).
Grill over medium heat to ensure even cooking without drying out the meat.
Let it rest before slicing to retain its juices.

6. Can I Make This Burrito Bowl Ahead of Time?

Yes! Store the ingredients separately in airtight containers and assemble them fresh when ready to eat. This helps prevent the rice from becoming soggy and keeps all the flavors vibrant.

7. How Can I Make It Spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Use spicy salsa or pico de gallo instead of mild.
Season the chicken with cayenne pepper or chipotle powder.

8. What Are Some Topping Ideas?

Sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
Shredded lettuce or cabbage for freshness.
Roasted corn or sautéed bell peppers for added sweetness.

9. Can I Make This Dish Without a Grill?

Yes! If you don’t have a grill, cook the marinated chicken:

In a skillet – Sear over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side.
In the oven – Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.
In an air fryer – Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.

10. How Can I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Refrigerate leftovers in separate containers for up to 3 days.
Reheat the rice and chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Avoid freezing avocados and fresh toppings, as they won’t maintain their texture after thawing.

Expert Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl

Let the chicken marinate for maximum flavor. The longer it sits, the more flavorful and juicy it will be.
Use a hot grill for those signature charred marks and smoky depth.
Mix up the toppings to keep things exciting. Try roasted corn, diced mango, or pickled onions for a unique twist.
Make a homemade taco sauce or chipotle mayo for drizzling over the top.
Layer ingredients strategically. Start with rice and beans, then add chicken, veggies, and toppings for the best texture.

Conclusion: A Fresh, Flavorful Meal for Any Occasion

A Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl is more than just a meal—it’s a perfect balance of nutrition, flavor, and texture. Whether you enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this dish is simple to make, endlessly customizable, and packed with bold, satisfying flavors.

By using fresh, wholesome ingredients, you can create a meal that’s healthier and more delicious than any takeout burrito bowl. With juicy grilled chicken, hearty rice, creamy avocado, and crunchy toppings, every bite is a burst of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Try this recipe today and experience the ultimate homemade burrito bowl—no tortillas required!