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 busy weeknights or casual gatherings, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Layers: Enjoy the combination of tender grilled chicken and zesty avocado salsa that make each bite delightful.
• Nutritious Substitute: The use of quinoa instead of rice or tortillas adds more nutrients and keeps the meal light.
• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 45 minutes, you can whip up this dish even on a busy day.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like beans or cheese to personalize your bowl.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra servings for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these delicious bowls, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (outdoor or indoor)
• Medium saucepan
• Meat mallet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Achieves that perfect char on the chicken for enhanced flavor.
• Medium saucepan: Essential for cooking quinoa evenly without burning.
• Meat mallet: Ensures even cooking by flattening chicken breasts for uniform thickness.

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

Optional Ingredients

• 1 2/3 cups frozen corn (warmed)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans (warmed then drained)
• Mexican blend cheese or queso fresco
• Plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream

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 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 let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the broth is absorbed. Remove from heat and allow it to rest for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Heat your grill to 425 degrees F. In a small bowl, whisk together ancho chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with the chili powder mixture. Grill the chicken until its center registers 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer—about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate, cover, let rest for another 5 minutes, then cut into pieces.

Step 3: Make Avocado Salsa

While the chicken rests, prepare your avocado salsa. In a mixing bowl, gently toss together diced tomatoes, avocados, red onion, jalapeño, minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls

To assemble your bowls, divide cooked quinoa among serving dishes. Top each bowl with grilled chicken pieces, warmed corn, black beans (if using), cheese (if desired), avocado salsa, and Greek yogurt or sour cream. Serve immediately for a delicious meal!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are a delightful and versatile dish. You can customize them in various ways to suit your taste and occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Customize Your Bowl

• Add more veggies: Include sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Switch up the protein: Substitute grilled chicken with shrimp, steak, or tofu for a different twist.
• Use different grains: Try brown rice, farro, or cauliflower rice as the base for a unique texture.

Garnish Options

• Fresh cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for an aromatic touch.
• Lime wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for an added zing of citrus flavor.
• Hot sauce: Offer a variety of hot sauces for those who enjoy some heat in their bowls.

Pairing Suggestions

• Corn tortilla chips: Serve crispy tortilla chips on the side for crunch and dipping.
• Refreshing drinks: Pair your burrito bowl with iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer for a perfect meal accompaniment.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Creating the perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the flavor of your salsa and toppings.
• Marinate the chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice or your favorite spices before grilling.
• Cook quinoa properly: Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove its natural coating and ensure a fluffy texture.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the jalapeño amount based on your heat preference; you can also use milder peppers if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Serving side dishes alongside your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This flavorful salad features grilled corn, lime, mayo, cheese, and spices. Mix it up in minutes!
2. Guacamole: A classic avocado dip that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or as an extra topping on your burrito bowl.
3. Black Bean Soup: A hearty soup made from black beans, spices, and veggies that complements the flavors of your burrito bowl perfectly.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with fresh cilantro and lime juice adds brightness to your meal and is easy to prepare.
5. Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa offers a refreshing contrast to the savory elements of your burrito bowl. Serve chilled!
6. Chips & Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with fresh tomato salsa make for perfect crunchy snacks to enjoy alongside your bowls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, it’s easy to trip up on a few details. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always make sure to coat your chicken in spices before grilling.
• Overcooking the quinoa: Cooking quinoa for too long makes it mushy. Follow the instructions closely and check for doneness after 15 minutes.
• Neglecting the resting time: Cutting into the chicken right after grilling can release its juices. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
• Using unripe avocados: Hard avocados won’t provide the creamy texture you want in your salsa. Choose avocados that give slightly when pressed for best results.
• Not adjusting heat levels: If you prefer milder flavors, always seed your jalapeño. Adjusting spice levels is key to creating a balanced dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• You can freeze components separately for better texture.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; they will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place the bowl covered with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through, usually about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa?

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are a delicious, healthy twist on traditional burritos, featuring grilled chicken served over quinoa and topped with fresh avocado salsa.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all components ahead of time and assemble just before serving for maximum freshness.

How can I customize my burrito bowls?

Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, change up the protein, or use different beans based on your preference!

Are these bowls healthy?

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

What sides pair well with these burrito bowls?

You could serve them alongside a simple green salad or some tortilla chips for added crunch!

Final Thoughts

These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without the tortillas. With plenty of room for customization, you can easily adapt this dish to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try and delight in its wholesome goodness!