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. These Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Enjoy the delicious flavors while keeping it healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Using quinoa instead of a tortilla provides more nutrients while keeping the dish satisfying.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Quick and Easy: With a total time of 45 minutes, these bowls are perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your burrito bowl by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for convenient lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (or grill pan)
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Meat mallet
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill (or grill pan): Provides that smoky flavor and perfect char on the chicken.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking quinoa efficiently without burning it.
• Mixing bowls: Helpful for combining ingredients like the avocado salsa without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Quinoa Base

• 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

For the Chicken

• 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 and 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 and minced if desired)
• 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 and reduce heat to medium-low. Allow to simmer for 15 minutes until the broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Meanwhile, heat your grill or 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 an even thickness using a meat mallet. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with the chili powder mixture. Grill chicken until the center registers 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate, cover it with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare Avocado Salsa

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

Step 4: Assemble Burrito Bowls

To assemble your burrito bowls, divide cooked quinoa among serving bowls. Top each bowl with sliced grilled chicken, warmed corn, black beans if using, shredded cheese if desired, avocado salsa, and Greek yogurt or sour cream if desired. 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 can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or preparing a meal prep option, these bowls can be customized to suit your taste.

Customize Your Bowl

• Rice Option: Swap quinoa for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a different texture and flavor.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
• Salsa Variations: Try different salsas like mango salsa or pineapple salsa for a fruity twist.
• Protein Swap: Use grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a unique take on this dish.
• Spicy Kick: Include sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for those who love heat.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Top with fresh cilantro or parsley for an aromatic finish.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Chili Flakes: Sprinkle chili flakes over the top for an added crunch and spice.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

To ensure your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are always a hit, consider these simple tips.

• Seasoning: Use ample seasoning on the chicken to enhance its flavor; don’t be shy!
• Rest the Chicken: Allow grilled chicken to rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe avocados and fresh tomatoes for the best avocado salsa taste.
• Temperature Matters: Serve all components warm; it makes the dish more inviting and enjoyable.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

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

1. Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole complements the flavors of the burrito bowl perfectly.
2. Cornbread: Sweet and moist cornbread adds a comforting element to your meal.
3. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This tangy salad brings freshness and crunch that pairs wonderfully.
4. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and lime is nutritious and flavorful.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a crunchy side delight.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies offer a healthy addition that enhances the overall dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and quinoa properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt and spices generously to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F for juicy results.
• Not letting quinoa rest: Some people skip resting quinoa after cooking. Allow it to sit covered for 5 minutes to achieve a fluffy texture.
• Ignoring avocado ripeness: Using unripe avocados can ruin your salsa’s creaminess. Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed for the best flavor.
• Assembling too early: Assembling burrito bowls ahead of time can make ingredients soggy. Build bowls just before serving for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• These bowls can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes! While quinoa is nutritious, feel free to substitute brown rice if you prefer its texture or flavor.

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

You can add different toppings like jalapeños, black olives, or your favorite hot sauce. Adjust ingredients based on your preferences!

What if I don’t have ancho chili powder?

You can replace ancho chili powder with regular chili powder or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These bowls store well and are perfect for meal prepping. Just keep toppings separate until ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are not just delicious but also versatile. They allow you to mix and match ingredients based on what you love or have on hand. Give this recipe a try and enjoy customizing it to fit your taste!