Description
These chicken burrito bowls for meal prep are packed with seasoned shredded chicken, fluffy rice or quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and high-protein toppings like black beans and Greek yogurt. They’re easy to make ahead, store well, and offer a bold, balanced meal you can enjoy all week long.
Ingredients
2 cups shredded chicken (from 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 cup white or brown rice (quinoa is a great alternative)
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 red or yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 small onion (any variety), thinly sliced
1 (14 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
2 limes
Sea salt or Kosher salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings (choose 2-3):
Salsa or pico de gallo
Plain Greek yogurt
Shredded cheese
Chopped fresh cilantro
Pickled red onions or pickled jalapeños
Sliced avocado
Instructions
1. Cook the chicken using your preferred method (bake, slow cooker, or pressure cooker). Season with cumin, chili powder, and salt before or after cooking. If using pre-cooked chicken, heat it in a skillet with 2 tablespoons of water and the spices to re-infuse flavor.
2. Rinse the rice in a fine strainer under cold water for 60 seconds. Cook according to package directions. Once done, stir in a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add bell pepper and onion, seasoning with 1/2 teaspoon each of cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
4. In a saucepan, combine black beans with 1/4 cup water, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, and 2 teaspoons salt. Simmer for 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Layer rice or quinoa at the base. Add vegetables, shredded chicken, and black beans. Finish with a squeeze of lime and your favorite toppings.
Notes
Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. Store toppings separately for best texture. Substitute cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Meal Prep Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired