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 family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Each bowl is packed with tender grilled chicken, hearty beans, zesty cheese, and a vibrant avocado salsa that adds a refreshing twist. This dish combines flavor and health in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: Each layer bursts with flavor, from the seasoned chicken to the zesty avocado salsa.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein-rich quinoa and fresh veggies, these bowls are both healthy and satisfying.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs—feel free to add more toppings!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them great for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make these burrito bowls, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Meat mallet
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for achieving perfectly grilled chicken that is juicy on the inside and crisp on the outside.
• Medium Saucepan: Used to cook quinoa efficiently while absorbing all the flavors from the chicken broth.
• Mixing Bowl: Helps combine your avocado salsa ingredients seamlessly for a fresh topping.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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 from the can 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 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

In a medium saucepan, stir together quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Heat a 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 chicken breasts to even out their thickness using the flat side of a meat mallet. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with the chili powder mixture. Grill until the 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 rests, prepare the avocado salsa. In a mixing bowl, gently toss together diced tomatoes, diced avocados, rinsed red onion, jalapeño, minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble Burrito Bowls

Divide cooked quinoa among serving bowls. Top each bowl with grilled chicken pieces, warmed corn, black beans (if using), cheese (if desired), avocado salsa, and Greek yogurt. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your nutritious and flavorful Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa can be a versatile meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these bowls offer a satisfying and colorful presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Create a Build-Your-Own Bowl Station

• Set out bowls of quinoa, grilled chicken, and toppings for guests to customize their burrito bowls. This interactive approach makes the meal fun!

Add Extra Toppings

• Offer additional toppings like sliced jalapeños, diced bell peppers, or pickled red onions to enhance flavors and textures in each bowl.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley on top of each bowl for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor that complements the dish.

Pair with Fresh Lime Wedges

• Serve lime wedges on the side so guests can squeeze fresh lime juice over their bowls, adding brightness and zest to the meal.

Include Tortilla Chips

• Provide crispy tortilla chips for added crunch. They make a great side to scoop up any leftover ingredients from the bowl.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

To elevate your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, consider these simple tips for perfecting your dish.

• Use High-Quality Chicken: Opt for organic or free-range chicken breasts for better flavor and texture.
• Marinate the Chicken: For added depth, marinate your chicken in spices and olive oil for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Cook Quinoa Properly: Ensure you rinse quinoa before cooking to remove its natural bitterness and improve its taste.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your preference. Adding smoked paprika or cayenne can bring extra heat.
• Make Ahead: Prepare components in advance (like quinoa and salsa) and store them separately in the fridge for quick assembly later.
• Serve Hot: Assemble and serve the burrito bowls while everything is still warm for the best experience.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Complement your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with tasty side dishes that pair well. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with sweet corn, lime juice, cheese, and spices; perfect for adding more flavor.
2. Black Bean Salad: A healthy mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, lime juice, and cilantro that enhances the Mexican theme.
3. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy avocado dip served with tortilla chips offers a classic pairing that everyone loves.
4. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with saffron or tomato provides a hearty addition that complements the burrito bowls well.
5. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and freshness; it’s easy to prepare and serves as a great topping too.
6. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from grated zucchini add a crunchy vegetable side that’s both delicious and healthy.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until tender provide natural sweetness that balances savory flavors in the bowl.
8. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime is aromatic and complements the other flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken enhances its flavor and tenderness. Take time to let it soak in spices before grilling for the best results.
• Overcooking the quinoa: Quinoa can become mushy if overcooked. Follow the instructions closely and check for doneness as it absorbs liquid.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Don’t be shy with spices and salt; taste as you go to find the right balance.
• Cutting chicken too soon: Allowing grilled chicken to rest helps retain its juices. If you cut it right away, you risk losing moisture, making it dry.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh produce, especially for your avocado salsa, makes a huge difference in flavor. Use ripe avocados and fresh herbs for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; remember to label with date.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover bowls with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until everything is warm.

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 alternative and adds different nutrients while keeping the dish hearty.

How can I customize my burrito bowl?

You can add other toppings like grilled vegetables, different beans, or even switch proteins such as shrimp or tofu for variety.

What should I do if my avocado salsa turns brown?

To prevent browning, add extra lime juice and store it in an airtight container immediately after preparation.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all components separately and assemble them just before serving for freshness.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying option for meal prep, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try customizing it with your favorite toppings!