Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Here you get everything you’d find in a burrito sans tortilla and with nutritious quinoa instead! These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are layered with seasoned, tender grilled chicken, hearty black beans, flavorful cheese, sweet corn, and a refreshing avocado salsa. Perfect for meal prep or a family dinner, these bowls pack a punch of flavor while keeping things healthy. Enjoy them for lunch or dinner on any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Each bite is bursting with bold flavors from the spices and fresh ingredients.
• Nutritious Base: Quinoa provides protein and fiber, making this bowl a wholesome choice.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Ingredients: Easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what’s available.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To create these tasty burrito bowls, gather the necessary tools and prepare your cooking space.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (outdoor or indoor)
• Medium saucepan
• Meat mallet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Gives the chicken a delicious char and smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for cooking quinoa evenly without burning it.
• Meat mallet: Ensures even thickness in chicken breasts for consistent cooking.

Ingredients

Here you get everything you’d find in a burrito sans tortilla and with nutritious quinoa instead! It’s layered with seasoned, tender grilled chicken, hearty black beans, flavorful cheese, sweet corn and a refreshing avocado salsa. So many delicious flavors!

For the Quinoa

• 1 1/2 cups dry quinoa
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp ancho chili powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Toppings (Optional)

• 1 2/3 cups frozen corn (warmed)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans (warmed then drained)
• Mexican blend cheese or queso fresco
• Plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream

For the Avocado Salsa

• 3 medium roma tomatoes (diced)
• 1 1/2 medium avocados (diced)
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion (rinsed)
• 1 jalapeño (seeded if desired and minced)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro

How to Make Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan stir together quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 15 minutes or until broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Heat your grill to 425 degrees F. In a small bowl whisk together ancho chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pound chicken breasts to even out their thickness using the flat side of a meat mallet. Brush both sides with olive oil then season both sides of chicken with the spice mixture. Grill chicken until center reaches 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate, cover it, and let rest for 5 minutes before cutting into pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Salsa

While the chicken is resting, prepare your avocado salsa. In a medium mixing bowl gently toss together tomatoes, avocados, red onion, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls

To assemble the burrito bowls, divide cooked quinoa among serving bowls. Top with grilled chicken pieces, corn, black beans, cheese if using, avocado salsa, and Greek yogurt. Serve immediately for best flavor!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions that enhance the experience of this flavorful dish.

Customize Your Bowl

• Add seasonal veggies: Incorporate grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a fresh crunch.
• Swap proteins: For a twist, try using grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley for an added burst of flavor.
• Slices of lime: Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over the bowl for extra zest.

Pairing Options

• Tortilla chips: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
• Mixed greens: Create a bed of mixed greens at the bottom of the bowl for added nutrition.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate the chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate in olive oil and spices for at least 30 minutes before grilling to enhance its flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for ripe avocados and fresh tomatoes to ensure your avocado salsa is vibrant and tasty.
• Cook quinoa properly: Rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove bitterness and ensure it’s fluffy after cooking.
• Let the chicken rest: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest before cutting helps retain its juices, making it more tender.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Complementing your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices pairs well with the burrito bowl flavors.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, and lime dressing adds extra protein and fiber.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances the avocado theme while providing a rich texture.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and color to your meal.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that balances out savory flavors.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa brings brightness and freshness that complements the burrito bowls perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always use spices generously for a flavorful dish.
• Overcooking the quinoa: Cooking quinoa too long can make it mushy. Follow the instructions carefully and check for doneness early.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken too soon will result in dry meat. Allow it to rest after grilling for juicier slices.
• Not draining beans properly: Leaving excess liquid in canned black beans can make your bowl watery. Drain them well before adding.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using stale or overly ripe ingredients in the avocado salsa can spoil its flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality produce for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Grilled chicken burrito bowls can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Place cooled bowls in freezer-safe containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa:

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for quinoa if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times according to package instructions.

How do I customize my burrito bowl?

Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, different cheeses, or additional veggies to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with protein from chicken and fiber from quinoa and beans, making it a nutritious meal choice.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all components separately and assemble them when ready to serve for maximum freshness.

What should I serve with these burrito bowls?

Consider pairing these bowls with tortilla chips or a light salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them based on personal taste or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!