Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic dish. This recipe offers the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine while keeping things light and fresh. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, these bowls bring together tender grilled chicken, wholesome quinoa, and vibrant avocado salsa that will satisfy your cravings. With layers of flavor and texture, this dish is sure to impress at any gathering or family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 45 minutes, you can have a wholesome meal ready in no time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from quinoa and beans, this bowl is both filling and healthy.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand, making it versatile for any occasion.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and the freshness of avocado salsa make every bite deliciously satisfying.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more efficient. Gather these essential items before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (outdoor or indoor)
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Meat mallet
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Ideal for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, enhancing its flavor.
• Medium saucepan: Essential for cooking quinoa evenly with broth for added taste.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for preparing the avocado salsa without making a mess.
• Meat mallet: Helps to ensure even cooking by flattening chicken breasts to uniform thickness.

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 Quinoa

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

For the Grilled Chicken

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp ancho chili powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Bowl Assembly

• 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 the 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 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 your grill 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 then season them 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 with foil, let rest for 5 minutes then cut into pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Salsa

While the chicken is resting, prepare your avocado salsa. In a medium 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, warmed corn, black beans if desired, cheese if using, avocado salsa, and Greek yogurt or sour cream as toppings. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa that are sure to be a hit!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Add Extra Protein

• Include grilled shrimp or diced turkey for an additional protein boost, making the dish even heartier.

Serve with Tortilla Chips

• Crispy tortilla chips can add a delightful crunch. Serve them on the side for scooping up the burrito bowl ingredients.

Incorporate Fresh Greens

• Layer fresh spinach or arugula at the base of the bowl. This adds a nutritious touch and extra texture to each bite.

Drizzle with Hot Sauce

• A few drops of your favorite hot sauce can amp up the flavor profile. Choose a mild sauce for subtle heat or a spicier option for those who love a kick!

Garnish with Lime Wedges

• Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their bowls, enhancing 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 truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Marinate your chicken – For added flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Use fresh ingredients – Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs in your salsa. They will improve flavor and texture significantly.
• Cook quinoa properly – Ensure you rinse quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness from its coating, leading to a better taste.
• Adjust spice levels – If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of ancho chili powder and jalapeño in your recipe.
• Let chicken rest – Allowing grilled chicken to rest helps retain its juices, resulting in tender slices.
• Customize toppings – Feel free to mix and match toppings like beans, cheese, or yogurt based on personal preference or dietary needs.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Complementing your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa is easy with these side dishes. Each option pairs perfectly to enhance your meal.

1. Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime zest offers a refreshing contrast to the flavors in your bowl.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until golden provide a deliciously sweet side that complements the savory elements of the dish.
3. Black Bean Salad – A chilled black bean salad tossed with corn, bell peppers, and lime juice adds a zesty touch.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn grilled until charred gives a smoky flavor that pairs well with avocado salsa.
5. Mexican Street Corn Salad – A creamy salad featuring corn, cotija cheese, and spices brings vibrant flavors that enhance every bite.
6. Chips and Guacamole – Crunchy tortilla chips paired with creamy guacamole offer a classic side that everyone loves.
7. Pico de Gallo – Fresh tomato salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños adds brightness and acidity.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice mixture provide an attractive and nutritious side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to avoid them.

• Ignoring quinoa cooking instructions: Always check the cooking time and liquid ratios for quinoa. This ensures a fluffy texture instead of mushy grains.
• Overcooking chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165 degrees F. Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough, so monitor it closely.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t skip the spice mix! Properly seasoning the chicken enhances flavor. Make sure to use all the spices suggested in the recipe.
• Making too much avocado salsa: Prepare only what you need, as avocado can brown quickly. You can always make more if necessary!
• Not letting chicken rest: Allowing grilled chicken to rest before cutting helps retain juices, making it more flavorful and tender.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place bowl in the microwave and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa?

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa is a delicious meal that combines seasoned grilled chicken, quinoa, black beans, corn, and a fresh avocado salsa.

Can I customize the toppings?

Yes! You can add your favorite toppings like different cheeses, salsas, or additional vegetables according to your taste preference.

How do I ensure my quinoa is cooked perfectly?

Make sure you follow the quinoa cooking instructions carefully. Using low-sodium chicken broth instead of water adds more flavor!

What sides pair well with this dish?

Consider serving it with tortilla chips, a side salad, or guacamole for a complete meal experience.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute beef, lamb, turkey, or even plant-based proteins if desired.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures that everyone will love. The recipe is versatile; you can easily customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs. Give it a try today!