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Flavorful Naked Chicken Burrito Bowl

naked chicken burrito bowl - featured image

A quick and easy burrito bowl packed with juicy seasoned chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty salsa—no tortilla needed. Perfect for a wholesome, flavorful meal that’s light and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice or cilantro lime rice
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or thawed from frozen
  • ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (a handful)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tbsp fresh salsa or pico de gallo
  • Optional: a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

Instructions

  1. Cook 1 cup (190 g) of brown rice according to package instructions (about 40-45 minutes). Stir in juice and zest from half a lime once cooked. Set aside and keep warm.
  2. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice blend evenly over the chicken. Let rest for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and outside is browned. Remove and let rest 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
  4. While chicken rests, halve cherry tomatoes, dice avocado, chop red onion and cilantro. Rinse and drain black beans and corn.
  5. Assemble bowl starting with warm rice, then layer black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Add sliced chicken on top, followed by diced avocado and cilantro.
  6. Spoon fresh salsa or pico de gallo over the bowl. Squeeze remaining lime juice across everything. Add sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired.
  7. Gently toss before eating or keep layers distinct. Serve immediately.

Notes

Avoid overcooking chicken to keep it juicy. Let chicken rest after cooking to lock in juices. Use ripe but firm avocado to prevent mashing. Rinse canned beans and corn to reduce excess salt and canned flavor. Adjust chili powder to control heat. For extra char, finish chicken under broiler for 1-2 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: naked chicken burrito bowl, chicken bowl, healthy burrito bowl, gluten-free, quick dinner, fresh ingredients, easy recipe