Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Here you get everything you’d find in a burrito sans tortilla and with nutritious quinoa instead! Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or gatherings. This dish features tender grilled chicken, hearty black beans, and a fresh avocado salsa that brings all the flavors together. It’s a unique twist on your traditional burrito bowl that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Each bite is packed with savory grilled chicken, sweet corn, and zesty avocado salsa.
• Healthy Ingredients: Quinoa is a fantastic base, providing nutrients that enhance your meal without the heaviness of tortillas.
• Customizable Options: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making this dish versatile for any occasion.
• Quick Preparation: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful layers of ingredients make your bowls not only tasty but also visually appealing!

Tools and Preparation

To make these Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (or grill pan)
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Meat mallet
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A grill gives the chicken that perfect charred flavor and keeps it juicy inside.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking quinoa evenly while absorbing the broth for enhanced flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for tossing together fresh ingredients like the avocado salsa.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly to avoid undercooking or drying it out.

Ingredients

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. So many delicious flavors!

For the Quinoa Base:

• 1 1/2 cups dry quinoa
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

For the Chicken:

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp ancho chili powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Toppings:

• 1 2/3 cups frozen corn (warmed optional)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans (warmed)
• 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)
• 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: Prepare the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan stir together quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat then cover, reduce heat to medium-low and allow to simmer for 15 minutes or until broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Meanwhile, heat a grill (or indoor grill, panini press, or cook over the stove in a 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 even out their thickness using the flat side of meat mallet. Brush both sides with olive oil then season with the chili powder mixture. Grill chicken until center registers 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate, cover and let rest for 5 minutes then cut into pieces.

Step 3: Make the Avocado Salsa

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

Step 4: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls

To assemble burrito bowls, divide quinoa among serving bowls. Top with grilled chicken pieces, warmed corn, black beans, cheese if desired, avocado salsa and Greek yogurt. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. They are versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Fresh Greens

• Top your burrito bowl with a handful of fresh greens like spinach or arugula for added nutrients and crunch.

Sliced Jalapeños

• Add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. This is great if you love spicy flavors in your meals.

Tortilla Chips

• Serve with crispy tortilla chips on the side for a satisfying crunch that complements the flavors of the bowl.

Lime Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating can enhance the overall taste and freshness of your bowl.

Extra Avocado Salsa

• Consider serving additional avocado salsa on the side for those who want more of that creamy goodness.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Creating the ultimate Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor and texture of your burrito bowls significantly.

• Marinate Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate your chicken in olive oil, lime juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

• Cook Quinoa Properly: Make sure to rinse quinoa before cooking it. This removes any bitterness and ensures a fluffier texture.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder and jalapeño based on your heat preference.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Complementing your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa with the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Street Corn
   A sweet and spicy corn dish topped with cotija cheese, perfect for adding flavor.

2. Refried Beans
   Creamy refried beans make a hearty side that pairs well with the flavors of the burrito bowl.

3. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and cilantro is a refreshing addition that balances the meal.

4. Chips and Guacamole
   The classic combo of crunchy tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole adds a delightful snack option.

5. Pico de Gallo
   This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness to your dish without overpowering it.

6. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasoned grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and onions provide a colorful touch alongside your burrito bowls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make a few common mistakes when preparing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use enough spices in the marinade for a flavorful result.
• Overcooking the quinoa: Cooking quinoa too long can make it mushy. Stick to the recommended simmer time for the best texture.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Cutting into chicken right after grilling can cause juices to run out. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Using unripe avocados: Unripe avocados will not have the creamy texture you desire for your salsa. Choose ripe avocados for the best flavor and consistency.
• Forgetting the lime juice: Omitting lime juice from the avocado salsa can result in a flat taste. The acidity enhances all other flavors in the salsa.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Freeze components separately for better quality.
• They can be stored in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bowls on a baking sheet and cover with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until hot.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth. Stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa:

How do I prepare Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa ahead of time?

You can cook and store each component separately, then assemble when ready to serve.

Can I customize my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, switch proteins, or adjust toppings based on your preferences.

What can I serve with Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa?

These bowls pair well with tortilla chips, additional salsa, or a side salad for extra freshness.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

Replace grilled chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu and include more beans and cheese.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the rich blend of flavors!