There is something undeniably satisfying about a Chicken Burrito Bowl with Black Beans, Corn, and Avocado Recipe that brings bold flavors and vibrant colors together in one bowl. This dish is a perfect balance of protein-packed chicken, creamy avocado, hearty black beans, and sweet corn, all layered on fluffy rice. It captures the essence of fresh ingredients enhanced with warm spices, making every bite a burst of texture and taste. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or something to impress your guests, this recipe delivers flavor, comfort, and a whole lot of yum!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Burrito Bowl with Black Beans, Corn, and Avocado Recipe lies in its straightforward and wholesome ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and colors that make the dish pop on your plate.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: A lean protein base that soaks up the spices beautifully and stays juicy when cooked right.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Provides a fluffy and neutral-tasting bed that carries all the vibrant toppings.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds earthiness, fiber, and a creamy texture that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen): Sweet bursts of flavor that brighten up every bite and add delightful color contrast.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy, tangy, and fresh, they bring a refreshing pop to the bowl.
- 1 avocado, sliced: Creamy richness that balances the spices and adds luxurious mouthfeel.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Herbaceous notes that lift the entire dish with freshness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps infuse the spices into the chicken and adds a silky finish.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: Provides warm, smoky heat that’s essential for authentic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Earthy, slightly nutty spice that deepens the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must-have for subtle pungency and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild sharpness and a bit of bite.
- Juice of 1 lime: The perfect zesty finish that brightens and ties everything together.
How to Make Chicken Burrito Bowl with Black Beans, Corn, and Avocado Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing the olive oil with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl to create your flavorful marinade. Coat the chicken breasts evenly in this aromatic blend and let them rest for at least 10 minutes. This short marinating time is enough to infuse the chicken with rich, warm spices that will give the dish its signature taste.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the chicken marinates, prepare your long-grain white rice exactly as instructed on the package. The fluffy rice will carry all the delicious toppings, so getting it just right is key. Once cooked, set it aside and keep it warm.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until it’s cooked through and nicely charred on the outside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes—this keeps the juicy tenderness locked in. After resting, slice the chicken into strips perfect for topping the bowls.
Step 4: Warm Black Beans and Corn
In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the drained black beans and corn kernels. Heat them for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re just warmed through. This step allows the ingredients to soak up any leftover chicken flavors, making them even more delicious.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Grab four bowls and start by evenly dividing the warm rice among them. Then add the black beans and corn mixture, followed by halved cherry tomatoes and creamy avocado slices. Finally, layer on the sliced chicken to create a stunning, colorful presentation.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over each bowl and finish with a generous squeeze of lime juice. These final touches add brightness and fresh herbal notes that elevate the entire dish.
How to Serve Chicken Burrito Bowl with Black Beans, Corn, and Avocado Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Chicken Burrito Bowl with Black Beans, Corn, and Avocado Recipe really pop, add some extra garnishes like sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess, sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for richness. A few extra lime wedges on the side invite guests to adjust the brightness to their liking.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a stand-alone meal, but pairing it with some crispy tortilla chips and homemade salsa or a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette adds refreshment and crunch. If you want to explore further, a side of Mexican street corn or grilled vegetables would complement the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Chicken Burrito Bowl with Black Beans, Corn, and Avocado Recipe in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches, or layer ingredients in a glass bowl to show off the colorful layers. You could also scoop the ingredients into warm flour tortillas to turn your bowl into a handheld burrito when you feel like mixing things up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Burrito Bowl with Black Beans, Corn, and Avocado Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the avocado slices separate or add them fresh at serving time to prevent browning.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken, black beans, corn, and rice components separately for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Avoid freezing the fresh toppings like avocado and tomatoes as their texture changes after freezing.
Reheating
Reheat the rice, chicken, beans, and corn in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Add fresh avocado, cilantro, and lime juice after reheating to maintain their fresh flavor and texture. This way, your meal tastes as vibrant as the day it was made.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, making the dish even heartier. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook than white rice.
Is there a vegetarian version of this bowl?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra black beans or grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. You can also add some spiced tofu or tempeh for a protein boost.
Can I prepare this recipe for meal prep?
Definitely. The ingredients hold up nicely when stored separately. Prepare everything over the weekend to enjoy quick and tasty meals throughout the week by assembling fresh bowls each day.
What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?
If fresh cilantro is hard to find, you can substitute with fresh parsley or green onions. They won’t replicate the exact flavor but will still bring a burst of freshness to your bowl.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe has a gentle warmth from chili powder, making it flavorful but not overwhelmingly spicy. To adjust the heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne or serve with sliced jalapeños on the side for those who like more kick.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Chicken Burrito Bowl with Black Beans, Corn, and Avocado Recipe a try because it’s truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The mix of simple ingredients and bold flavors creates something both comforting and exciting, perfect for any day you want to treat yourself to something deliciously satisfying. Trust me, once you make it, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Chicken Burrito Bowl with Black Beans, Corn, and Avocado Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Chicken Burrito Bowl combines juicy marinated chicken breast with fluffy white rice, seasoned black beans, and fresh vegetables for a nutritious and flavorful meal. Ideal for a quick and satisfying dinner, it’s bursting with vibrant flavors, colorful ingredients, and a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
Ingredients
Protein and Marinade
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Base and Vegetables
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the Rice: Prepare the long-grain white rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and set aside while you prepare the rest of the bowl components.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
- Heat Beans and Corn: In the same skillet, add the black beans and corn kernels. Stir and warm them together for 2-3 minutes until thoroughly heated.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly among four bowls. Top each portion with warmed black beans and corn, sliced cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, and the cooked chicken slices.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over each bowl and add a squeeze of fresh lime juice on top. Serve the burrito bowls immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken marinade.
- You can substitute cooked brown rice for a healthier option.
- Use canned corn kernels if fresh or frozen corn is unavailable.
- Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices and keeps it tender.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
