One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls

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One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls: The Ultimate Comfort Food Made Easy

If you love the rich flavors of a burrito but don’t want the hassle of assembling one, One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls are the perfect solution. This dish takes everything you love about burritos—juicy chicken, savory beans, sweet corn, melty cheese, and a kick of spice—and combines them into a hearty, satisfying meal made entirely in one pot. That means less cleanup, maximum flavor, and a meal that the whole family will love.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a dish to feed a crowd, or a meal prep-friendly recipe, this one-pot wonder checks all the boxes. It’s quick, packed with protein, and loaded with bold Mexican-inspired flavors. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings to make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Everything Cooks in One Pot – Fewer dishes to wash!
  • Quick & Easy – Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
  • Family-Friendly – A meal that kids and adults will enjoy.
  • Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap the protein, or add extra veggies.
  • Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for days.

What Are One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls?

Instead of wrapping all the ingredients in a tortilla, this dish combines seasoned chicken, rice, beans, tomatoes, and cheese into a hearty, flavorful meal that you can eat straight from the bowl. Think of it as a burrito, but easier to make and just as satisfying!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is simple, using pantry staples that come together beautifully.

For the One-Pot Burrito Bowl:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • ¼ cup fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Optional Toppings:

  • Sliced avocado or guacamole
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Diced jalapeños
  • Chopped red onion
  • Hot sauce or salsa
  • Crushed tortilla chips for crunch

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned.
  3. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rice & Vegetables

  1. In the same pot, add the rice, stirring to coat it in the seasonings.
  2. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, and corn.
  3. Stir everything together, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

Step 3: Simmer Until Rice is Tender

  1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
  2. Cover and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese & Serve

  1. Stir the cooked chicken back into the pot.
  2. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and cover the pot for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
  3. Finish with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro.

Step 5: Add Your Favorite Toppings

  • Spoon into bowls and add toppings like guacamole, sour cream, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls

  1. Use Freshly Cooked or Rotisserie Chicken – If short on time, use pre-cooked chicken and stir it in at the end.
  2. Adjust the Spice Level – Add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños for heat.
  3. Try Different Cheeses – Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, or Cotija cheese all work well.
  4. Make It Vegetarian – Skip the chicken and add extra beans or tofu.
  5. Use Cauliflower Rice for Low-Carb – Reduce the liquid by half and stir in cooked cauliflower rice at the end.

Variations to Try

The beauty of this dish is that you can switch up the ingredients to match your taste.

Protein Swaps:

  • Ground Beef or Turkey – Cook and season the same way as chicken.
  • Shrimp – Sauté separately and add at the end.
  • Tofu or Tempeh – Marinate and sauté for a vegetarian twist.

Different Grain Options:

  • Brown Rice – Adjust cooking time to about 30-35 minutes.
  • Quinoa – Use the same liquid ratio but reduce the cook time to 15 minutes.

Extra Add-Ins:

  • Chopped Bell Peppers – Add for a burst of sweetness.
  • Sautéed Onions & Garlic – For extra depth of flavor.
  • Pickled Red Onions – A tangy contrast to the rich cheese.

What to Serve with Chicken Burrito Bowls

While this dish is hearty on its own, it pairs well with:

  • Homemade tortilla chips & salsa
  • Mexican street corn (Elote)
  • Refreshing agua fresca or margaritas
  • A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months – Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Final Thoughts

One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls are a lifesaver when you want something quick, delicious, and satisfying. They’re loaded with bold flavors, packed with nutrients, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding a family, or just craving a cozy, cheesy, Mexican-inspired meal, this dish delivers every time.

So grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy one of the easiest and tastiest one-pot meals you’ll ever make!

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