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Easy Flavor-Packed Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe with Cauliflower Rice for Healthy Meal Prep

chicken burrito bowl with cauliflower rice - featured image

A quick and healthy chicken burrito bowl featuring smoky seasoned chicken atop fluffy cauliflower rice, complemented by fresh veggies and zesty lime. Perfect for meal prep and packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking and marinade)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 medium head cauliflower, grated or processed into rice-sized pieces (about 4 cups)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced or diced
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Optional: shredded cheese or dairy-free alternative
  • Optional: salsa or pico de gallo

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken marinade by combining olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until evenly coated and let sit for at least 10 minutes.
  2. Make the cauliflower rice by removing leaves and core from fresh cauliflower, then grate or pulse in a food processor until grain-sized. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
  3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion (if using) and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  4. Add the cauliflower rice, season with salt and pepper, and stir frequently. Cook until tender but still fluffy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and keep warm.
  5. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and increase heat to medium-high. Add marinated chicken pieces in a single layer and cook about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
  6. While the chicken cooks, rinse and drain black beans, slice avocado, chop cilantro, and cut lime.
  7. Assemble the bowls by starting with a generous scoop of cauliflower rice, topping with cooked chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top.
  8. Optionally, add salsa or pico de gallo, shredded cheese, or a drizzle of your favorite dressing.

Notes

For juicier chicken, use thighs; breasts work well for leaner protein. Drain frozen cauliflower rice thoroughly to avoid sogginess. Cook cauliflower rice until just tender to maintain fluffy texture. Marinate chicken for at least 10 minutes for best flavor. Cook chicken on medium-high heat for a good sear without burning. Prep cauliflower rice and marinate chicken the night before to save time.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken burrito bowl, cauliflower rice, healthy meal prep, low carb, gluten-free, quick dinner, easy recipe, meal prep bowl