Are you ready for a weeknight dinner that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make?
The one pan chicken burrito bowl is a game changer!
Imagine this: tender chicken, colorful veggies, and zesty spices all cooked in one pan, creating a medley of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.
With this simple recipe, you can whip up a wholesome meal in under 30 minutes, leaving you more time to unwind and enjoy your evening!
Ingredients for One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that are likely already in your pantry:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work best.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice or brown rice, depending on your preference.
- Beans: Canned black beans or pinto beans for added protein.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, corn, and onions for vibrant color and flavor.
- Spices: Cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt for a flavorful kick.
- Toppings: Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado, and cheese for a finishing touch.
Substitutions: Feel free to swap the chicken for beef, tofu, or shrimp, and replace the rice with quinoa for a different twist!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
- Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.
- Chop your vegetables: bell peppers and onions should be sliced thin, while corn can be used straight from the can or frozen.
2. Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and sauté until cooked through and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables and Rice
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the rice, black beans, and corn, ensuring everything is well mixed.
4. Simmer
- Pour in the appropriate amount of water or chicken broth (usually 1.5 times the volume of rice) and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
5. Final Touches
- Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top. Garnish with chopped cilantro and any additional toppings you like.
Customization Ideas
The beauty of the one pan chicken burrito bowl is its versatility! Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Protein Options: Try swapping the chicken for beef, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein like tempeh or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Toppings Galore: Consider adding guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese, or jalapeños to elevate the dish.
- Make It Vegan: Substitute the chicken with jackfruit or chickpeas, and skip the cheese for a delicious vegan option.
Health Benefits of This Dish
This one pan chicken burrito bowl is not just tasty but also nutritious! Here’s a quick breakdown of its benefits:
- Protein-Packed: The chicken and beans provide a hefty dose of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Fiber-Rich: Beans and vegetables offer a great source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer.
- Colorful Veggies: The bell peppers and corn add vitamins A and C, antioxidants that support overall health.
Plus, cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup, making it a win-win for busy weeknights!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This burrito bowl is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas for side dishes and beverages to complement your meal:
- Side Dishes: Pair it with a simple side salad or tortilla chips and salsa for extra crunch.
- Beverages: A refreshing limeade or iced tea makes a great pairing.
- Presentation Tips: Serve in colorful bowls and garnish with fresh ingredients for an Instagram-worthy meal!
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the one pan chicken burrito bowl is not just a recipe; it’s a solution to your weeknight dinner dilemmas!
With its rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your home.
So, grab your skillet and start cooking this delicious meal tonight! Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family, and let us know how you customized your burrito bowl!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Just be aware that brown rice may require a longer cooking time and additional liquid. Check the package instructions for specific water-to-rice ratios.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with jackfruit, tempeh, or chickpeas, and skip any animal-based toppings.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice or brown rice
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn canned or frozen
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced (red or green)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: Avocado cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños
Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients
- Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.
- Chop your onion and bell pepper into small pieces.
- Rinse and drain the black beans and set them aside.
Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and sauté until cooked through and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Vegetables and Rice
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the rice, black beans, and corn, ensuring everything is well mixed.
Simmer
- Pour in 1.5 cups of water (or chicken broth) and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
Final Touches
- Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top. Garnish with chopped cilantro and any additional toppings you like.