Chicken Burrito Bowls Recipe

These Chicken Burrito Bowls are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal! Imagine tender, shredded chicken, seasoned with taco spices, layered over fluffy rice and topped with your favorite burrito fixings. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, thanks to the convenience of your slow cooker. Simply combine the ingredients, set it, and forget it! You’ll come home to a customizable and nutritious meal that’s perfect for the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Let your slow cooker do the work! Simply combine the ingredients and let them simmer to perfection while you go about your day.
• Flavorful and Customizable: The taco seasoning infuses the chicken with a delicious blend of spices, while the variety of toppings allows everyone to customize their bowls to their liking.
• Healthy and Satisfying: This recipe is packed with lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the beans and vegetables, and healthy fats from the avocado, making it a nutritious and filling choice.
• Great for Meal Prep: You can easily double or triple the recipe and assemble the bowls ahead of time for a convenient and healthy meal prep option.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: A flavorful and tender cut of chicken that’s perfect for slow cooking. You can also use chicken breasts if you prefer.
• Taco seasoning: Use your favorite store-bought taco seasoning or make your own at home with a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano.
• Salsa: Adds a fresh and zesty flavor to the chicken. Use your favorite store-bought or homemade salsa.
• Cooked white rice: A fluffy and versatile base for the burrito bowls.
• Black beans: Drained and rinsed, they add protein, fiber, and a creamy texture.
• Shredded iceberg lettuce: Adds a refreshing crunch.
• Shredded Mexican cheese: Adds a cheesy and flavorful topping.
• Tomato: Diced and adds sweetness and acidity.
• Guacamole: Adds a creamy and healthy topping.
• Sour cream: Adds a cool and tangy element.
• Lime wedges: Serve with lime wedges for an extra squeeze of acidity.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Chicken Burrito Bowls

Step 1: Cook the Chicken in the Slow Cooker

Coat a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Add the chicken thighs and sprinkle the taco seasoning and salsa over the top. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it may become dry.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

Remove the lid from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice evenly among 6 bowls. Top the rice with the shredded chicken mixture, dividing it equally. Add the black beans, shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, guacamole, and sour cream to each bowl, layering the toppings as desired.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the Chicken Burrito Bowls immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use boneless, skinless thighs: Chicken thighs are more flavorful and forgiving than chicken breasts, so they’re a great option for this recipe.
• Adjust the spice level: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning or salsa to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the chicken.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the slow cooker along with the chicken, such as diced bell peppers, corn, or chopped onions.
• Make ahead: You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and assemble the bowls.

How to Serve

These Chicken Burrito Bowls are delicious and versatile. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, shredded lettuce, or extra cheese, for people to customize their bowls.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for scooping and dipping.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the burrito bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chicken Burrito Bowls are great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can! Brown rice is a healthier option and adds a nutty flavor to the burrito bowl.

2. Can I make this recipe without the slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply cook the chicken and sauce on the stovetop, then shred the chicken and assemble the bowls as directed.

3. Can I use a different type of bean?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite beans, such as pinto beans, kidney beans, or even black-eyed peas.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the chicken?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs.

This Chicken Burrito Bowls Recipe is a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. With its easy preparation, versatile ingredients, and customizable toppings, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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