Here’s a delicious and healthy recipe that combines all the elements of a classic burrito into a hearty bowl. Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a meal prep for the week. This recipe highlights flavorful grilled chicken, nutritious quinoa, and a zesty avocado salsa that brings everything together. The unique aspect of this dish is that it provides all the goodness of a burrito without the tortilla, making it lighter yet satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Filling: Each bite is packed with flavor from the seasoned chicken to the fresh avocado salsa.
• Nutritious Substitute: Quinoa replaces traditional rice or tortillas, adding protein and fiber.
• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have this meal ready in no time.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them great for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on these delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, make sure you have the right tools on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Meat mallet
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked safely while remaining juicy.

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 Base

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

For the 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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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: Prepare the Grill

Meanwhile, 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 using the flat side of a meat mallet to even out their thickness.

Step 3: Season and Grill Chicken

Brush both sides of chicken breasts with olive oil then season 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 another 5 minutes before cutting into pieces.

Step 4: Make Avocado Salsa

While the chicken rests, 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 5: Assemble 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.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Serving Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa is a delightful experience that allows for creativity. You can customize each bowl to suit personal tastes, making them perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Individual Bowls

• Each guest can have their own bowl, allowing for customization of ingredients according to personal preferences.

Family Style

• Serve all components in large bowls and let everyone build their own burrito bowls. This makes for an interactive dining experience.

Meal Prep

• Pack individual servings in meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Toppings Bar

• Include a toppings bar with extra ingredients like sliced jalapeños, olives, or different types of cheese to enhance flavors.

Leftovers Delight

• Use leftovers creatively by turning them into wraps or tacos the next day for a tasty twist on the original dish.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

To achieve the best results with your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish and ensure maximum flavor!

• Marinate the chicken: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in taste compared to canned or dried options.
• Cook quinoa properly: Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness and ensure it cooks evenly.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of jalapeño or chili powder based on your heat preference to cater to all taste buds.
• Let it rest: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest after cooking helps retain juices, making it more flavorful.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding different toppings like black olives or diced bell peppers for added texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

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

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad featuring corn, lime, cilantro, and spices that complements the flavors of the burrito bowls.
2. Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful, guacamole adds a rich texture that pairs well with the chicken and salsa.
3. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa create a fun starter before enjoying the main dish.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime juice and cilantro brings brightness and freshness to your meal.
5. Black Bean Soup: A hearty soup that offers a warm contrast to the cool avocado salsa while echoing similar flavors.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa adds a burst of flavor that can be enjoyed as an additional topping on your bowls.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies provide a nutritious side that pairs nicely without overpowering the main dish.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites, offering a sweet counterbalance to savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not rinsing quinoa: Failing to rinse quinoa can lead to a bitter taste. Always rinse it under cold water before cooking to enhance its flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F and avoid overcooking.
• Skipping seasoning: Neglecting to season your chicken or other ingredients will result in bland flavors. Make sure to season generously for the best taste.
• Using the wrong avocado: Using unripe avocados can ruin your salsa. Choose ripe avocados for a creamy texture and rich flavor in your dish.
• Assembling too early: Assembling the bowls too far in advance can lead to soggy ingredients. Prepare and serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls in airtight containers.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge when properly stored.
• Make sure to keep the avocado salsa separate until ready to eat.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• You can freeze the chicken and quinoa components, but avoid freezing the avocado salsa.
• Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place bowls in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer servings into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa healthy?

These bowls replace traditional tortillas with quinoa, offering more nutrients while still delivering great flavors from grilled chicken and fresh veggies.

Can I customize my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different toppings like black olives, jalapeños, or even switch proteins such as beef or tofu based on your preferences.

How do I prevent my avocado from browning?

To prevent browning, store cut avocados with lime juice or keep them tightly covered until ready to use.

Can I meal prep Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls?

Yes! These bowls are perfect for meal prep. Just prepare each component ahead of time and assemble when you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa offer a deliciously healthy twist on traditional burritos. This recipe is versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Try this dish today; it’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients that everyone will love.

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Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa deliver all the vibrant flavors of a classic burrito, but in a lighter, tortilla-free format. This hearty dish features tender grilled chicken atop a bed of protein-rich quinoa, complemented by a zesty avocado salsa that brings freshness and color to your meal. Perfect for any occasion—whether a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for busy lunches—these bowls are customizable to suit your taste buds. Packed with nutrients, they provide a satisfying and wholesome alternative without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy this healthy twist on traditional burritos that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups dry quinoa
• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 Tbsp ancho chili powder
• 3 medium roma tomatoes
• 1 1/2 medium avocados
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1 jalapeño
• 2 Tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Rinse quinoa under cold water and combine it with chicken broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it rest.
2. Preheat your grill or grill pan. Season chicken breasts with olive oil and the spice mix (ancho chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper). Grill for about 4 minutes per side until cooked through (165 degrees F).
3. While the chicken rests, prepare avocado salsa by tossing diced tomatoes, avocados, red onion, jalapeño, minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro in a bowl; season to taste.
4. Assemble each bowl with quinoa as the base followed by sliced grilled chicken, avocado salsa, and any additional toppings.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for added flavor. Customize with your favorite toppings like black beans or cheese. For meal prep, store components separately to maintain freshness.