Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

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! Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests, these Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are a hit for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Healthier Option: Substituting quinoa for tortillas adds nutrition without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust toppings and ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Great for Meal Prep: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them perfect for lunch throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious burrito bowls, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, enhancing flavor.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking quinoa perfectly without burning it.
• Mixing bowls: Great for preparing the avocado salsa and combining ingredients easily.

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

For the Bowls

• 1 2/3 cups frozen corn (warmed optional)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans (warmed along with liquid from the can 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 for less heat 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

1. In a medium saucepan stir together quinoa and chicken broth.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat then cover.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and allow to simmer for 15 minutes or until broth has been absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill (or indoor grill, panini press).
2. In a small bowl whisk together ancho chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt (3/4 tsp), and pepper (1/4 tsp).
3. Pound chicken breasts to even out their thickness using the flat side of meat mallet.
4. Brush both sides with olive oil then season with chili powder mixture.
5. Grill until center registers 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer—about 4 minutes per side.
6. Transfer chicken to a plate, cover, let rest for 5 minutes then cut into pieces.

Step 3: Prepare Avocado Salsa

In a medium mixing bowl gently toss together:
– diced tomatoes,
– diced avocados,
– rinsed chopped red onion,
– minced jalapeno,
– minced garlic,
– lime juice,
– olive oil,
– cilantro.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

Divide cooked quinoa among serving bowls. Top each bowl with:
– grilled chicken,
– warmed corn,
– black beans,
– cheese (if using),
– avocado salsa,
– Greek yogurt or sour cream (if desired).

Serve immediately and 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 not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some creative ways to serve these tasty bowls.

For a Family Meal

• Serve in large bowls for a communal experience, allowing everyone to add their favorite toppings.
• Pair with homemade tortilla chips for a crunchy side that complements the burrito bowl.

Lunch Prep

• Prepare individual portions in meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.
• Top with extra avocado salsa just before serving to keep it fresh.

As a Party Dish

• Create a burrito bowl bar where guests can build their own bowls with various toppings.
• Offer a selection of proteins, including grilled chicken, beef, or tofu, for different preferences.

Kid-Friendly Options

• Make smaller portions and let kids choose their toppings, making it fun and interactive.
• Serve the components separately for picky eaters who may not want everything mixed together.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

To make your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa truly exceptional, follow these tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Marinate the chicken: Letting the chicken marinate in spices for at least 30 minutes will deepen the flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for ripe avocados and fresh tomatoes to enhance the freshness of your avocado salsa.
• Cook quinoa perfectly: Rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness and ensure fluffiness.
• Customize toppings: Experiment with additional toppings like diced bell peppers or olives for added flavor and texture.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a spicier kick, add more jalapeño or mix in some diced chipotle peppers into the salsa.
• Garnish creatively: Top each bowl with a sprig of cilantro or a lime wedge for visual appeal and extra zest.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls can elevate your meal. Here are some wonderful options that complement the flavors beautifully.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of corn, lime, cheese, and spices that adds sweetness and crunch.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made from black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cilantro; it’s packed with protein.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocados mixed with lime juice and spices make an excellent dip or topping to enhance flavors.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime juice and cilantro pairs well as a base under your burrito bowl ingredients.
5. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and lime create a zesty side that balances the richness of the burrito bowl.
6. Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a delightful crunch alongside your bowls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Avoid these common mistakes for a better dish.

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to properly season the chicken and quinoa can lead to bland flavors. Always use spices generously to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F without overdoing it.
• Not letting the quinoa rest – Cutting into quinoa right after cooking can result in a mushy texture. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before fluffing.
• Ignoring avocado ripeness – Using unripe avocados can result in a hard texture. Choose ripe avocados for a creamy salsa that pairs perfectly with your bowls.
• Rushing the assembly – Layering ingredients too quickly can lead to a mess. Take your time and assemble each bowl thoughtfully for better presentation and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Keep components separate (chicken, quinoa, salsa) if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze without the avocado salsa; add fresh when reheating.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat in microwave-safe containers for 1-2 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making 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 cooking times as necessary.

How can I customize my burrito bowls?

There are many ways to customize your bowls! You can add different proteins like beef or shrimp and swap out veggies based on your preference.

What toppings work well with Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa?

Consider adding toppings like jalapeños, olives, or radishes for extra flavor and crunch. Fresh herbs also enhance the dish!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These burrito bowls keep well in the fridge and freeze nicely, making them perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors packed in every bite!