Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Here you get everything you’d find in a burrito sans tortilla and with nutritious quinoa instead! Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to casual gatherings. This dish features tender grilled chicken, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and a refreshing avocado salsa that brings all the flavors together. It’s a delightful twist on the classic burrito that’s sure to please everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber, this bowl is a wholesome meal option.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here are some items that will help you prepare these delicious bowls with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Meat mallet
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides even cooking and adds those beautiful grill marks to the chicken.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for cooking quinoa evenly without burning.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for preparing salsa and mixing spices efficiently.
• Meat mallet: Helps ensure even thickness of chicken breasts for uniform cooking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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 Base

• 1 1/2 cups dry quinoa
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 Tbsp ancho chili powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil

For Toppings

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

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 for less heat 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 then cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and allow to simmer for 15 minutes or until broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Meanwhile, heat a grill (or indoor grill, panini press, or cook over the stove in a grill pan) 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 meat mallet. Brush both sides with olive oil then season both sides of chicken with the chili powder mixture. Grill chicken until center registers 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer; about 4 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate, cover, and let rest for 5 minutes before cutting into pieces.

Step 3: Prepare Avocado Salsa

While the chicken is resting, prepare avocado salsa in a medium mixing bowl by gently tossing together tomatoes, avocados, red onion, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

To assemble burrito bowls, divide quinoa among serving bowls. Top each bowl with grilled chicken pieces, corn, black beans, cheese if desired, avocado salsa, and Greek yogurt. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit your taste. These bowls are not only flavorful but also packed with nutrition, making them perfect for any meal.

Top with Extra Vegetables

• Add sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrients.
• Include fresh spinach or kale for a nutritious boost.

Pair with Fresh Tortilla Chips

• Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
• Use the chips to scoop up the avocado salsa for an interactive experience.

Drizzle with Creamy Dressing

• A drizzle of ranch or chipotle dressing can enhance the flavors.
• Light balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy contrast to the dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for added freshness.
• Chopped green onions can provide a mild onion flavor that complements the ingredients.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

To ensure your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are truly exceptional, keep these tips in mind. With a few adjustments, you can elevate this dish even further.

• Marinate the Chicken: For enhanced flavor, marinate chicken breasts in lime juice, garlic, and spices for at least an hour before grilling.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese will significantly improve the overall taste of your burrito bowls.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your heat preference. Remove seeds for milder salsa or leave them in for more spice.
• Cook Quinoa Properly: Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness and ensure fluffy grains once cooked.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve bowls right after assembling while everything is still warm.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like pickled red onions or sliced olives to add unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip complements the flavors of the bowl perfectly. Serve it fresh with lime juice and salt.
2. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant salad made of corn, cheese, lime juice, and spices brings a refreshing crunch.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime and cilantro makes for a zesty addition that pairs well with burrito bowls.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled until charred offer a smoky flavor that enhances your meal.
5. Spicy Black Bean Soup: A warm bowl of soup adds comfort and pairs nicely with the other flavors in your dish.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and balances out the savory elements of your burrito bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, it’s easy to overlook a few key aspects. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked just until it reaches 165 degrees F. Overcooking can make it dry and tough.
• Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken and quinoa generously. This adds layers of flavor that are crucial for a delicious bowl.
• Not Letting Quinoa Rest: Allowing the quinoa to rest after cooking helps it fluff up. Skipping this step can lead to a mushy texture.
• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Use fresh ingredients, especially for the avocado salsa. Fresh produce enhances flavor and nutrition.
• Assembling Too Early: Prepare the bowls just before serving. Assembling too early can lead to soggy ingredients, especially if using moist toppings.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Keep the avocado salsa separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Consider freezing components separately for better quality upon reheating.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bowls in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water to help steam while reheating, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for quinoa in Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa?

You can use brown rice, farro, or even cauliflower rice as alternatives for quinoa in this recipe.

How do I make my avocado salsa spicier?

Add more minced jalapeño or include a pinch of cayenne pepper while mixing the salsa.

Can I use leftover grilled chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled chicken works perfectly and saves time during meal prep.

What are some variations of Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa?

Try adding different beans, like pinto or chickpeas, or switch up the veggies in your salsa for variety!

How long does it take to prepare these burrito bowls?

The total prep and cook time is approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick meal option.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that are both satisfying and nutritious. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or substitutes. Whether you make it spicy or keep it mild, it’s sure to become a family favorite!