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, whether it’s a family dinner, meal prep for the week, or a fun gathering with friends. This recipe combines the bold flavors of grilled chicken, black beans, sweet corn, and a refreshing avocado salsa that elevates the dish to new heights. It’s a wholesome meal that is both satisfying and packed with nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this dish can be made in under an hour.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices used on the chicken adds depth and richness to every bite.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and quinoa, plus healthy fats from avocados, it’s a health-conscious choice.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on personal taste or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them ideal for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.

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 that perfect char and smoky flavor to the chicken.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking quinoa evenly and efficiently.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for preparing ingredients like the avocado salsa without mess.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked safely while remaining juicy.

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

• 1 1/2 cups dry quinoa
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 Tbsp ancho chili powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil

For Toppings

• 1 2/3 cups frozen corn (warmed optional)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans (warmed 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 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. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and 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 your grill (or indoor 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 a meat mallet. Brush both sides with olive oil then season both sides of chicken with the spice mixture. Grill chicken until center registers 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer—about 4 minutes per side. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate, cover it up, let it rest for 5 minutes then cut into pieces.

Step 3: Prepare Avocado Salsa

While the chicken rests, prepare your avocado salsa. In a medium mixing bowl gently toss together tomatoes, avocados, red onion, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls

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

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled chicken burrito bowls with avocado salsa are a versatile dish that can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a family meal, these bowls can be tailored to satisfy everyone.

For a Healthy Twist

• Add Extra Greens: Incorporate spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
• Substitute Quinoa: Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a different texture and flavor.

For Added Crunch

• Top with Tortilla Strips: Crispy tortilla strips add a delightful crunch.
• Include Nuts or Seeds: Pumpkin seeds or chopped almonds enhance the texture and provide healthy fats.

For Flavor Boosters

• Drizzle with Hot Sauce: Add your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
• Serve with Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors in every bite.

For Meal Prep

• Pack for Lunches: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them perfect for meal prepping.
• Separate Components: Keep ingredients separate until serving to maintain freshness.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Creating the perfect grilled chicken burrito bowls requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition significantly.
• Marinate the Chicken: Marinating chicken for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Cook Quinoa Properly: Ensure quinoa is fluffy by rinsing it before cooking to remove bitterness.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking to achieve the desired flavor balance.
• Let Chicken Rest: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest before slicing keeps it juicy and tender.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Complementing your grilled chicken burrito bowls with delicious side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad with black beans, corn, and cilantro adds protein and fiber.
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, and chili powder brings bold flavors.
3. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips is always a crowd-pleaser.
4. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked in tomato sauce provides a hearty side that pairs perfectly.
5. Sautéed Bell Peppers and Onions: Colorful veggies sautéed until tender add both flavor and nutrition.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted with spices offer a sweet contrast to savory flavors in the bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making grilled chicken burrito bowls can be simple, but common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoned dishes lack flavor. Always season your chicken and other ingredients adequately before cooking.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Allow your chicken and other items to come to room temperature before grilling.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing for the juiciest results.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old produce can spoil the taste of your avocado salsa. Always choose fresh tomatoes, onions, and avocados for the best flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers.
• Best if consumed within 2-3 months for quality.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments (1 minute) until thoroughly heated, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa?

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are a tortilla-free version of a burrito, featuring grilled chicken, quinoa, beans, corn, cheese, and fresh salsa.

How do I customize my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or use brown rice instead of quinoa for variation.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the quinoa and grill the chicken in advance. Assemble just before serving for best results.

What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to add toppings like jalapeños, olives, or additional sauces like hot sauce or salsa verde.

Final Thoughts

These grilled chicken burrito bowls are not only delicious but also versatile. They allow customization based on your preferences while providing a healthy meal option. Try them out today and enjoy all the flavors packed into each bowl!