Chicken Burrito Bowl

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Chicken Burrito Bowl

The chicken burrito bowl is a modern, Americanized adaptation of traditional Mexican cuisine, popularized by fast-casual restaurant chains like Chipotle Mexican Grill starting in the early 2000s.

Origin Overview:

  • Traditional Influence:Burritos originated in northern Mexico, typically made with a flour tortilla wrapped around fillings like meat, beans, rice, and salsa.
  • The “Bowl” Concept:The burrito bowlemerged in the U.S. as a deconstructed burrito served in a bowl without the tortilla, catering to low-carb, gluten-free, or customizable food trends.
  • Rise in Popularity:Chains like Chipotle popularized it by offering burrito ingredients in a bowl, appealing to health-conscious eaters and those seeking customizable meals.
  • Chicken Variant:Chicken is one of the most popular protein choices for these bowls due to its affordability, flavor versatility, and alignment with healthy-eating trends in American diets.

Summary:

  • Roots:Inspired by Mexican burritos.
  • Modern Origin:Popularized in the United Statesin the late 1990s to early 2000s, especially by fast-casual restaurants.
  • Purpose:Designed for customizationand health-conscious dining.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Juice of ½ lime

 For the Bowls:

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes or salsa
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Lime wedges

Optional Toppings:

  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Hot sauce
  • Pickled jalapeños
  • Diced red onion

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken:
    • In a bowl, mix olive oil, spices, and lime juice.
    • Coat the chicken thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).
    • Grill, bake (400°F/200°C for 20-25 mins), or pan-cook the chicken until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
    • Slice or dice the cooked chicken.
  2. Assemble the Bowls:
    • Start with a layer of rice.
    • Add black beans, corn, tomatoes or salsa, and sliced chicken.
    • Top with avocado, cheese, cilantro, and any other toppings you like.
  3. Serve:
    • Squeeze fresh lime over the top and enjoy!

 Thank you for trying this recipe. Please let me know how you liked it. If you enjoyed this recipe, please take a look at other recipes on my fast, simple and good chicken and rice pages. 

Chicken Burrito Bowl