Pin it
A filling single-pot Chicken Burrito Bowl blends juicy chicken chunks, rice with Mexican spices, and black beans into a satisfying dish that's better than what you'd get at many restaurants. This adjustable meal has been fine-tuned through many family suppers, becoming a trusted weeknight option that gets everyone excited to sit down and eat together.
I've made this countless times and discovered that letting the rice cook in the same pan as the chicken gives it amazing flavor. What my family really enjoys is how everyone can add their own favorite toppings, making mealtime fun and interactive.
Key Components
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts : Pick fresh pieces that are about the same size so they cook evenly
- Extra long grain rice : Makes light, separate grains that soak up all the wonderful flavors
- Black beans : Gives you extra protein and fiber while matching the Mexican taste profile
- Diced tomatoes : Adds a bit of sweetness and the right amount of moisture for cooking the rice
- Fresh garlic and onions : Forms a tasty foundation that makes all other ingredients taste better
- Low-sodium chicken broth : Lets you adjust the saltiness to your liking
Thorough Steps
- Step 1: Creating the Foundation
- Warm up olive oil in a big pan over medium-high heat. Cook diced onions until they're see-through and smell good. Toss in chicken pieces and cook until they're brown all over.
- Step 2: Getting the Rice Ready
- Move chicken to one side of the pan. Brown rice in olive oil until it looks slightly golden. Put in garlic and cook until you can smell it.
- Step 3: Putting It All Together
- Add chicken broth and tomatoes after draining them. Mix in rinsed black beans and spices. Let it bubble then cover it. Cook on low for 20 minutes until you can eat the rice.
- Step 4: Last Details
- Turn off the heat and taste for seasoning. Squeeze in fresh lime juice. Sprinkle cheese on top and cover until it melts. Add your chosen toppings before serving.
Pin it
My grandma always told me a good one-pot meal should be easy and tasty. This dish proves she was right - the way the chicken flavors the rice as everything cooks together makes for taste layers you just can't get any other way.
Flavor Mastery
Getting that real Mexican taste means building flavor in stages. Begin with cooked onions and garlic, put spices in at just the right time, and finish with fresh lime and cilantro to brighten it all up.
Planning Ahead
This dish actually tastes better the next day when all the spices have had time to mix together. I usually cook twice as much on Sundays so we've got quick lunches ready for the whole week.
Switch Things Up
Change this meal around by using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken, or try pinto beans rather than black ones. Throw in some corn for extra sweetness or chopped poblanos if you want some heat.
Looking back: This One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl has turned into our family's favorite comfort food. The mix of well-seasoned rice, soft chicken, and the fun of adding your own toppings makes dinner something to look forward to. Whether you're cooking for your family or prepping meals for the week ahead, this dish gives you restaurant-quality food with the warm feeling of homemade cooking in every mouthful.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can brown rice replace regular rice?
- Sure, but it needs more time—around 35-40 minutes—and extra broth since brown rice cooks longer.
- → How do I make this without dairy?
- Just skip the cheese and sour cream, or replace them with vegan options like cashew cream. It’s just as tasty without them!
- → Is this good for meal prep?
- Totally! Store it in sealed containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. Keep toppings separate until you're ready to eat.
- → What’s the best way to warm up leftovers?
- Add a little water to the rice and reheat in the microwave, covered, for 1-2 minutes. This keeps the rice from drying.
- → How can I make it spicier?
- Add spicy peppers, like jalapeños, or mix in cayenne or hot sauce. Use your favorite heat boosters!