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! These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings with friends. This versatile dish is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients, making it a favorite for health-conscious eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Layers: Each bowl is filled with vibrant flavors from grilled chicken to zesty avocado salsa.
• Customizable: Modify the ingredients based on your preferences—add more veggies or swap proteins as desired.
• Healthy Alternative: Enjoy the classic burrito experience without the extra calories from tortillas; quinoa adds protein and fiber.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare these bowls ahead of time for lunches throughout the week; they store well in the fridge.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, gather the following essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides a great char on the chicken, enhancing its flavor.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for cooking quinoa evenly and efficiently.
• Meat mallet: Ensures even cooking of the chicken breasts by flattening them.

Ingredients

For the Quinoa Base

• 1 1/2 cups dry quinoa
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

For the Seasoned Chicken

• 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

For Toppings

• 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 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

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 allow to simmer for 15 minutes or until broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare 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 a meat mallet. Brush both sides with olive oil then season with the spice mixture. Grill chicken until center registers 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate, cover, and let rest for 5 minutes before cutting into pieces.

Step 3: Make Avocado Salsa

While the chicken is resting, prepare avocado salsa. In a mixing bowl, gently toss together diced tomatoes, avocados, red onion, jalapeño, minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls

To assemble burrito bowls, divide cooked quinoa among serving bowls. Top each bowl with grilled chicken pieces, corn, black beans, cheese (if using), avocado salsa, and Greek yogurt. Serve immediately for maximum freshness!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are versatile and delicious, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

For a Family Dinner

• Add Extra Toppings: Offer additional toppings like diced jalapeños, shredded lettuce, or sliced olives to let everyone customize their bowls.
• Serve with Tortilla Chips: Pair the bowls with crunchy tortilla chips on the side for added texture and flavor.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Divide into Containers: Portion out individual servings in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
• Layer Ingredients: Keep the salsa separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

For a Casual Gathering

• Set Up a Buffet Style: Create a self-serve station where guests can assemble their own burrito bowls with all the ingredients laid out.
• Offer Beverage Pairings: Serve refreshing drinks like iced tea or lime-infused water to complement the flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

To make your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Choose ripe avocados and fresh tomatoes for the best flavor in your salsa.
• Marinate Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil and spices for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more or less jalapeño based on your preference.
• Experiment with Quinoa: Try different types of quinoa, such as red or black quinoa, for a unique twist on texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cilantro that complements the bowl’s flavors.
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice for a zesty side.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip seasoned with lime and garlic that adds richness when served alongside.
4. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with tomatoes and spices that pairs well with the hearty burrito bowl.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers tossed in olive oil and grilled until tender.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa for an easy appetizer option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa can be a delightful experience. However, avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the best results.

• Skipping the quinoa rinse: Not rinsing quinoa can result in a bitter taste. Always rinse it under cold water before cooking to remove saponins.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F for juicy results.
• Not letting flavors meld: Serving right away may miss out on richer flavors. Letting the avocado salsa sit for 10 minutes allows ingredients to blend beautifully.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Different brands of broth and beans vary in saltiness. Taste your dish as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly for balance.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can disrupt cooking times and textures. Make sure your chicken and beans are at room temperature before grilling or heating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep individual components separate if possible for better texture.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Freeze components separately for optimal flavor and texture, lasting up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa.

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

You can add different proteins like shrimp or tofu, swap quinoa for brown rice, or include additional veggies such as bell peppers or zucchini.

Can I make Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the components in advance and store separately. Assemble just before serving for freshness.

What toppings work well with these burrito bowls?

Consider adding jalapeños, sliced olives, or fresh cilantro to enhance flavor. You could also sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips for crunch.

Are Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with protein from chicken and fiber from black beans and quinoa, making it a nutritious choice.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa offer an exciting twist on traditional burritos while being healthy and customizable. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and feel free to personalize them based on your preferences!