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 casual family dinner or a meal prep for the week. This dish combines seasoned grilled chicken, hearty black beans, fresh corn, and a zesty avocado salsa that brings all the flavors together. It’s a delightful way to enjoy your favorite burrito toppings in a healthier format.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Twist: Using quinoa instead of rice or tortillas adds nutrients and fiber.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients makes each bite exciting.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is great for busy weeknights.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra servings and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

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: Essential for achieving that delicious char on the chicken, enhancing flavor.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for cooking quinoa evenly without burning.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for preparing ingredients like salsa without mixing flavors too soon.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures chicken is cooked safely while keeping it juicy and tender.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa:

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 Chicken

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

For Toppings

• 1 2/3 cups frozen corn (warmed optional)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans (warmed along with liquid 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 and minced if desired)
• 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 the quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let it rest for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

While the quinoa is resting, 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 the chicken breasts to ensure even thickness using the flat side of a meat mallet. Brush both sides of each breast with olive oil and season generously with the spice mixture. Grill until the center reaches 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer—about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate, cover lightly with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare Avocado Salsa

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

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

To assemble your burrito bowls, divide cooked quinoa into serving bowls. Top each bowl with sliced grilled chicken, warmed corn, black beans if using, cheese if desired, generous amounts of avocado salsa, and dollops of Greek yogurt or sour cream if preferred. Serve immediately!

Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Serving your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious meal.

Make It a Family Feast

• Serve the burrito bowls in large serving platters for family-style dining. This allows everyone to customize their bowls with their favorite toppings.

Create a Build-Your-Own Bowl Station

• Set out all the components separately, allowing guests to build their own burrito bowls. Include toppings like cheese, corn, and avocado salsa for a fun and interactive meal.

Pair with Refreshing Drinks

• Enhance the flavors of your burrito bowls by serving them with refreshing beverages like iced tea or margaritas. This adds a festive touch to your meal.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Perfecting your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa can take this dish to the next level. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition in your burrito bowls.
• Marinate chicken: Letting the chicken marinate in spices for at least 30 minutes before grilling intensifies the flavor.
• Cook quinoa properly: Follow the cooking instructions carefully to get fluffy quinoa that complements the other ingredients.
• Add lime zest: Incorporating lime zest into your avocado salsa can brighten up the flavors and add an aromatic touch.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add or substitute different toppings like black olives or jalapeños for extra flavor.
• Adjust spice levels: Customize the heat level of your dish by adding more or less jalapeño according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Charred corn on the cob topped with cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder offers a sweet and savory complement.
2. Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole make for a classic Mexican appetizer that pairs perfectly.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime juice provides a zesty base that enhances the burrito bowl’s flavors.
4. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made from black beans, corn, tomatoes, and cilantro offers additional protein and nutrients.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and onions add color and taste while being healthy additions.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime come together in this vibrant salsa that adds freshness to every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoiding these will ensure a delicious outcome.

• Overcooking the chicken: It’s crucial to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and prevent dryness.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season all layers of your bowl. Proper seasoning enhances the flavor of each ingredient, especially the chicken and quinoa.
• Not resting the quinoa: Allowing the quinoa to rest after cooking helps it fluff up. This step improves texture and prevents clumping when assembling your bowls.
• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients are key for vibrant flavors. Check that your vegetables, spices, and oils are fresh before starting.
• Neglecting the avocado salsa prep: Mix your avocado salsa gently to avoid mushiness. A light hand keeps the ingredients intact and adds freshness to each bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Keep components separate if possible to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Freeze individual servings in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave out avocado salsa when freezing; add it fresh after reheating.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover bowls with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa?

You can easily swap ingredients based on preference. Try adding grilled veggies or different beans like pinto or kidney beans for variety.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and quinoa in advance. Store them separately and assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.

What should I serve with my burrito bowls?

These bowls pair well with tortilla chips, a side salad, or even some fresh guacamole for extra flavor.

How do I store leftovers from Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze components separately as mentioned above.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize them based on your dietary needs or preferences. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal prep option or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Give it a try and enjoy all the delicious layers!

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Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa offer a delightful twist on your favorite burrito by replacing the tortilla with nutritious quinoa. Packed with seasoned grilled chicken, hearty black beans, and sweet corn, this dish bursts with flavor. The zesty avocado salsa adds a refreshing touch, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to meal prep for the week ahead. In just 45 minutes, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 2/3 cups frozen corn (warmed optional)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans (warmed along with liquid then drained optional)
• Mexican blend cheese or queso fresco (optional)
• Plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream (optional)
• 3 medium roma tomatoes (diced)
• 1 1/2 medium avocados (diced)
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion (rinsed)
• 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced if desired)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro

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Instructions

1. Cook quinoa in chicken broth until fluffy.
2. Grill seasoned chicken until cooked through.
3. Mix diced tomatoes, avocados, onion, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, and cilantro to make avocado salsa.
4. Assemble bowls with quinoa as the base and top with sliced chicken, corn, black beans, and avocado salsa.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 80mg