One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

This One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can be enjoyed on busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its vibrant ingredients and customizable toppings, this dish appeals to everyone from families to meal prep enthusiasts. In just 30 minutes, you can create a hearty and nutritious meal that brings the essence of Mexican cuisine right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• One-Pan Convenience: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in one pan.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously satisfying meal.
• Customizable Toppings: Personalize your bowl with avocado, cheese, or jalapeños to suit your taste.
• Nutritious Meal Option: Packed with protein, fiber, and colorful veggies for a well-balanced dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make this One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without crowding them.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing chicken.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and easy cutting for all ingredients.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key for perfect seasoning and ingredient ratios.

Ingredients

To prepare the One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken and Base

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Toppings:

• Avocado
• Cheese
• Sour cream
• Jalapeños

How to Make One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Start by preparing all your ingredients for quick assembly:
1. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.
2. Chop the onion and bell pepper into small pieces.
3. Rinse and drain the black beans. Set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, cook the chicken:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Sauté until cooked through and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Rice

Once the chicken is ready:
1. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet.
2. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become tender.
3. Stir in the rice, black beans, and corn; mix everything well.

Step 4: Simmer

Now it’s time to let everything cook together:
1. Pour in 1.5 cups of water (or chicken broth) into the mixture.
2. Bring it to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is fully cooked.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Finally:
1. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork.
2. Squeeze fresh lime juice over everything.
3. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
4. Add optional toppings like avocado, cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños as desired.

Enjoy your flavorful One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl!

How to Serve One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

Serving your One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl can elevate the meal experience and cater to various taste preferences. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to make your dish even more enjoyable.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Avocado: Creamy avocado slices or guacamole add richness.
• Cheese: Shredded cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, melts beautifully on top.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream brings a cool contrast to the spices.
• Jalapeños: For spice lovers, fresh or pickled jalapeños offer an extra kick.

Add a Crunchy Element

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
• Lettuce: Fresh shredded lettuce adds a refreshing texture.

Garnish with Herbs

• Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brightens the bowl with herbal notes.
• Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide an oniony crunch and color.

How to Perfect One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

To achieve the ultimate One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with spices; they enhance flavor. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Rice Variety: Experiment with different rice types, like brown rice for added nutrition. Remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate additional veggies such as zucchini or diced tomatoes for more color and nutrients.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a larger batch and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.
• Customize Toppings: Allow everyone to personalize their bowl with a variety of toppings for family-friendly fun.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

Pairing side dishes with your One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl can enhance your meal’s flavor profile. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This dish features sweet corn, lime, and cotija cheese for a zesty complement.
2. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips is always a crowd-pleaser.
3. Spanish Rice: Flavored rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a great side that matches well.
4. Refried Beans: Smooth, seasoned refried beans add protein and heartiness to your meal.
5. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro brings brightness.
6. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of grilled bell peppers and zucchini offers smoky flavor and healthy options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing the One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for.

• Using Unseasoned Chicken: Not seasoning your chicken properly can lead to bland results. Make sure to coat the chicken with spices like cumin and chili powder before cooking.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Fluffing the rice immediately after cooking can cause it to become gummy. Let it rest for a few minutes to achieve the perfect texture.
• Not Measuring Rice Correctly: Using too much or too little rice can affect the dish’s overall balance. Follow the recipe’s rice-to-liquid ratios carefully.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking veggies for too long can make them mushy. Sauté them just until tender for better texture and flavor.
• Neglecting Optional Toppings: Skipping toppings like avocado or cheese means missing out on added flavor and creaminess. Customize your bowl with your favorites for an enhanced dish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

• Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers.
• Keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl?

The One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is a quick and easy meal made with seasoned chicken, rice, beans, corn, and vegetables, all cooked together in one pan.

How long does it take to prepare the One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl?

This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I customize my One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl?

Absolutely! You can add or substitute ingredients like different vegetables, proteins, or toppings according to your taste preferences.

What sides go well with the One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl?

Consider pairing with tortilla chips, salsa, or a simple green salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

The One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is not only quick but also versatile and flavorful. You can easily tailor it to suit your palate by adding various toppings or veggies. Give this recipe a try for your next meal!