One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, look no further than this One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl. Packed with tender chicken, seasoned rice, black beans, corn, and a medley of bold Mexican-inspired flavors, this dish is a complete meal made entirely in one pan. The convenience of cooking everything together means fewer dishes to clean, while the combination of fresh and pantry-staple ingredients ensures a meal that’s both hearty and wholesome. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a comforting, Tex-Mex-inspired dinner, this recipe will hit the spot. With easy-to-follow instructions, customizable options, and plenty of tips, this one-pan chicken burrito bowl is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is the ultimate combination of flavor, convenience, and versatility. Here’s why you’ll love it:

1. One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.
2. Packed with Flavor: The bold spices, tender chicken, and fresh toppings deliver a restaurant-quality meal at home.
3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand.
4. Great for Meal Prep: This recipe stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
5. Family-Friendly: With its customizable toppings and mild spice level, this dish is a hit with kids and adults alike.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

To make this flavorful One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Burrito Bowl Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 avocado, diced or sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
• Tortilla chips (for crunch)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, prep all your ingredients to make the process smooth and efficient. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, chop the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out the spices. Drain and rinse the black beans and set aside the other canned and frozen ingredients.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly browned on all sides. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking with the rice. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 4: Toast the Rice and Add Spices

Add the uncooked rice to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir to coat the rice in the oil and toast it for 1-2 minutes, which enhances its flavor. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper, stirring to evenly distribute the spices.

Step 5: Add the Liquids and Veggies

Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, and corn. Stir everything together to combine. Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture.

Step 6: Simmer and Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes (or 30-35 minutes for brown rice), or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid removing the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Fluff and Serve

Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to finish steaming. Fluff the rice with a fork, mixing in the chicken and vegetables.

Step 8: Add Toppings and Enjoy

Serve the burrito bowl warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, sour cream, and lime wedges. For added crunch, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top or serve them on the side for dipping.

Ingredient Background

Each ingredient in this One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl plays an important role in creating a flavorful and balanced dish:

• Chicken: Provides lean protein and pairs perfectly with the Tex-Mex flavors.
• Rice: Acts as the base of the dish, soaking up all the spices and juices for a flavorful foundation.
• Black Beans: Add fiber, protein, and a creamy texture to the dish.
• Corn: Provides a sweet and juicy pop of flavor that balances the spices.
• Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika create the bold, smoky flavor profile typical of burrito bowls.
• Toppings: Fresh ingredients like avocado, cilantro, and lime brighten up the dish and add contrast to the warm, savory base.

Technique Tips

• Toast the Rice: Toasting the rice before adding the liquid enhances its flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A sturdy pan ensures even cooking and prevents the rice from burning or sticking.
• Adjust the Spice Level: For a spicier dish, add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the rice mixture. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking ensures the rice is perfectly tender and the flavors are fully developed.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Lettuce Wraps: Skip the rice and serve the chicken and veggies in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
• Taco Night: Use the burrito bowl mixture as a filling for tacos or burritos.
• Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers, fill them with the burrito bowl mixture, and bake until the peppers are tender.
• Burrito Bowl Salad: Serve the mixture over a bed of lettuce for a fresh and healthy twist.

Additional Tips for Success

• Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables and measure the spices in advance to save time during cooking.
• Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover cooked chicken. Simply shred the chicken and stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Keep It Fresh: Add fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, onions, or jalapeños right before serving for extra flavor and texture.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or a handful of shredded cheese at the end for a creamy finish.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Burrito Bowl: Omit the chicken and add extra beans, tofu, or sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Seafood Twist: Replace the chicken with shrimp or fish for a seafood-inspired burrito bowl.
• Quinoa Substitute: Use quinoa instead of rice for a higher-protein, gluten-free alternative.
• Spicy Chipotle Bowl: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.
• Cheesy Casserole: Transfer the cooked mixture to a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and broil until bubbly for a burrito bowl casserole.

Freezing and Storage

• To Store: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to refresh the flavors.
• To Freeze: Allow the mixture to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Brown Rice: Swap white rice for brown rice to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
• Low-Sodium Options: Use low-sodium chicken broth, beans, and canned tomatoes to reduce the sodium content.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Skip the Cheese: Leave out the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a lighter dish.

Serving Suggestions for Events

This One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is versatile enough for any occasion:

• Weeknight Dinner: Serve as a quick, satisfying meal for the whole family.
• Meal Prep: Divide into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Potluck: Double the recipe and serve it buffet-style with a variety of toppings for guests to customize their bowls.
• Game Day: Pair with chips, guacamole, and salsa for a Tex-Mex-inspired spread.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A deep, heavy-bottomed pan is essential for cooking the rice evenly.
• Tight-Fitting Lid: Ensures the rice cooks properly and absorbs all the liquid.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and fluffing the rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes, use pre-cooked rice and stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm it through. Reduce the liquid to 1 cup.

2. What’s the best chicken to use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best, but you can also use leftover rotisserie chicken.

3. Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra beans or veggies for protein and flavor.

4. How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
Use a heavy-bottomed pan and stir the rice occasionally during cooking. Make sure the heat is low and the pan is covered tightly.

5. Can I use other grains?
Yes, quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice are great substitutes for the rice in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.

6. How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is mild. For more heat, add cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce.

7. Can I add cheese to the dish?
Yes, stir in shredded cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy finish.

8. What other beans can I use?
Pinto beans or kidney beans are great alternatives to black beans.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is the perfect solution for anyone craving a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal. With its combination of tender chicken, seasoned rice, beans, and corn, this dish delivers bold Tex-Mex flavors while keeping cleanup to a minimum. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping meals for the week, or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Plus, with endless customization options, you can make it your own by adding your favorite toppings and twists. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, satisfying burrito bowl made entirely in one pan!

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