Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are a delicious and healthy twist on your favorite burrito. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings. The vibrant flavors from the grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy avocado salsa make it a standout dish that will satisfy cravings without the added carbs from tortillas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: Each bite is bursting with rich flavors from seasoned chicken and fresh ingredients.
• Nutritious: With quinoa as the base, you get a protein-rich and fiber-filled meal that’s good for you.
• Customizable: Change up the toppings or spices to suit your taste and dietary needs.
• Quick to prepare: In just 45 minutes, you can serve this delicious meal to your family or guests.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch at the beginning of the week for quick lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that perfect charred flavor to the chicken, enhancing its taste.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking quinoa evenly in broth for added flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for preparing salsa and combining ingredients without mess.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly to avoid undercooking.

Ingredients

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 Grilled Chicken

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

Toppings (Optional)

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

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 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 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 black 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 spice mixture. Grill chicken until center registers 165 degrees on an instant read thermometer, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate, cover, let rest for 5 minutes then cut into pieces.

Step 3: Prepare Avocado Salsa

While the chicken is resting, prepare 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 Burrito Bowls

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

Enjoy these Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa as a satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are versatile and can be customized to suit any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Add Extra Toppings

• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, fresh jalapeños add a spicy kick.
• Fresh Lime Wedges: Squeezing lime over the bowl enhances flavors and adds freshness.
• Crushed Tortilla Chips: A crunchy texture complements the soft ingredients beautifully.

Create a Family Style Serving

• Large Serving Platter: Arrange all components on a large platter for a shared meal experience.
• Individual Portions: Set up a DIY burrito bowl station where everyone can customize their bowls.

Pair with Beverages

• Iced Tea: A refreshing sweet or unsweetened iced tea pairs perfectly with the flavors of the bowl.
• Sparkling Water: Lemon or lime-infused sparkling water adds a refreshing touch without added sugars.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Achieving the perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls involves attention to detail in preparation and presentation. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly enhance flavor and texture.
• Balance Flavors: Make sure to season each component well; this creates layers of flavor in every bite.
• Cook Quinoa Properly: Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness and achieve fluffiness.
• Let Chicken Rest: Allowing grilled chicken to rest before slicing keeps it juicy and tender.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Complement your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with these delicious side dishes. They will enhance your meal while providing additional textures and flavors.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of corn, lime, cilantro, and cheese that brings brightness to your plate.
2. Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad featuring black beans, bell peppers, and a zesty dressing for added protein.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime, cilantro, and garlic offers an irresistible dip for tortilla chips.
4. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and spices makes a great addition to your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized provide a delicious side.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: Lightly flavored rice with cilantro and lime juice that complements the burrito bowls perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can hinder your dish’s flavor and presentation. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not rinsing the quinoa: Rinsing quinoa before cooking removes its bitter coating. Always rinse it under cold water to ensure a pleasant flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly juicy chicken.
• Skipping seasoning: Seasoning at every step enhances flavor. Don’t forget to season your quinoa and chicken well.
• Ignoring the resting time: Allowing both quinoa and chicken to rest after cooking helps flavors meld together. Be patient; this step is crucial!
• Making the salsa too early: Prepare avocado salsa just before serving to keep avocados fresh and vibrant. This ensures the best texture and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa:

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes! Brown rice is a great substitute if you prefer it over quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.

How can I customize my burrito bowl?

Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, salsa, or different types of cheese. You can also swap out black beans for pinto beans or add more veggies.

Is this recipe healthy?

Absolutely! Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans and quinoa, making them a nutritious choice.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes! Substitute grilled tofu or chickpeas for chicken and use plant-based cheese and yogurt alternatives for a vegan version.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time for making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa is approximately 45 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any meal occasion. You can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences, ensuring that each bowl is uniquely yours. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out; it’s sure to become a favorite!