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 weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. Enjoy a wholesome meal packed with protein and vibrant ingredients that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Twist: Enjoy the classic burrito flavors without the carbs of a tortilla, thanks to nutritious quinoa.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for beginner cooks.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand; it’s versatile!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for preparing ahead of time for busy weeks—just reheat and serve.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare these delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make the process smooth and efficient.

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 that perfect charred flavor to the chicken, enhancing its taste.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking quinoa evenly and ensuring it absorbs all the chicken broth flavor.
• Meat mallet: Helps pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.

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 then 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: Grill the Chicken

Meanwhile, heat a grill (or indoor grill, panini press, or cook over the stove in a grill pan) to 425 degrees F. In a small bowl whisk together ancho chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt (3/4 tsp), and pepper (1/4 tsp). Pound chicken breasts with the flat side of a meat mallet to even out their thickness. Brush both sides with olive oil then season both sides of chicken with the chili powder 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 then cut into pieces. Season with more salt to taste if desired.

Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Salsa

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

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

To assemble burrito bowls, divide quinoa among serving bowls. Top with grilled chicken slices, corn, black beans, cheese if using, avocado salsa and Greek yogurt if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa make for a versatile and satisfying meal. These bowls are perfect for customizing according to personal preferences, making them ideal for family dinners or gatherings.

Add Extra Crunch

• Tortilla Strips: Crispy tortilla strips can add a delightful crunch to your bowl.
• Chopped Nuts: For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped almonds or walnuts.

Spice it Up

• Hot Sauce: A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile.
• Pickled Jalapeños: These add both heat and tanginess for those who enjoy spicy dishes.

Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro Garnish: Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top enhances the dish’s freshness.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions can provide an additional layer of flavor and color.

Protein Variations

• Shrimp or Fish: Swap out chicken for grilled shrimp or fish for a seafood twist.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, marinated and grilled tofu works beautifully.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Perfecting your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa is all about mastering flavors and textures. Follow these tips to enhance your dish.

• Seasoning: Make sure to season both the quinoa and chicken well to bring out their natural flavors.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs in the avocado salsa for optimal taste.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like feta or pepper jack for varied flavor profiles.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest before slicing retains its juices, making it more tender.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with corn, lime, chili powder, and cheese.
2. Black Bean Salad: This protein-rich salad combines black beans, corn, bell peppers, and a zesty dressing.
3. Guacamole & Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips is always a crowd-pleaser.
4. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements burrito bowls perfectly.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and color to your meal.
6. Cabbage Slaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the bowls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Using cold ingredients: Always make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for even cooking. Cold chicken can lead to uneven grilling.
• Overcooking the quinoa: Follow the cooking times closely. Overcooked quinoa becomes mushy and loses its texture.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season every layer! Adding salt and spices throughout ensures each component is flavorful.
• Cutting the chicken too soon: Let the grilled chicken rest before cutting. This helps retain juices and keeps it tender.
• Neglecting freshness in salsa: Use ripe avocados and fresh lime juice for the best flavor in your avocado salsa. Fresh ingredients make a big difference.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Keep quinoa, chicken, and salsa separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• The components can be frozen separately for up to 3 months.
• Ensure containers are freezer-safe to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa.

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes! Brown rice is a great alternative that also adds fiber and nutrients.

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

You can add any of your favorite toppings like jalapeños, olives, or different types of cheese for extra flavor.

What if I don’t have avocado for the salsa?

You can substitute avocado with diced mango or omit it entirely. The dish will still be delicious!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu and use vegetable broth for the quinoa.

How can I meal prep these bowls?

Prepare all components separately, then assemble when ready to eat. Store in individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are a delightful mix of flavors and textures that anyone can enjoy. They are not only nutritious but also versatile—perfect for customizing based on what you have at home. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to experiment with different toppings!

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