If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, fresh, and satisfying meal to brighten up your dinner routine, look no further than this Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa Recipe. It brings together perfectly seasoned grilled chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, zesty avocado salsa that bursts with flavor and color. Every bite feels like a celebration of simple ingredients working in harmony—guaranteed to impress your family or friends and keep you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa Recipe lies in the simplicity and freshness of each ingredient. Each item not only boosts flavor but also adds an inviting texture and vibrant colors to your plate that make every bowl as beautiful as it is delicious.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs): The star protein, perfect for grilling and soaking in robust spices.
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Helps keep the chicken juicy and adds a fruity richness to the marinade.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder: Brings a warm, smoky kick that elevates every mouthful.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds an aromatic and savory undertone without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential to enhance all the flavors and balance the spices.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth to the chicken’s seasoning.
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown): The perfect fluffy base that soaks up all those beautiful juices.
- 2 ripe avocados: Creamy and buttery, these form the heart of the luscious avocado salsa.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Provide juicy bursts of sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Gives a fresh, citrusy aroma that brightens up every bite.
- Juice of 1 lime: Adds tangy zestiness to balance the creaminess of the avocado salsa.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl to create an irresistible marinade. Toss the chicken breasts in this vibrant blend until they’re fully coated. Pop the marinated chicken into the fridge and let it soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes. Giving the chicken this time to marinate makes all the difference, infusing it deeply with those warm, spicy notes.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—it should be hot enough to sear those chicken breasts beautifully. Lay the chicken on the grill and cook each side for about 6 to 7 minutes. You want that slightly charred exterior and the juices locked inside. The goal is an internal temperature of 165°F so your chicken is safe, juicy, and tender. The aroma of grilled spices will fill your kitchen and get you even more excited for the meal ahead.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice
While the chicken cooks, prepare your rice according to the package instructions. Fluff it gently with a fork once cooked to avoid clumps. Whether you prefer nutty brown rice or fluffy white, this will act as the perfect, neutral canvas that lets all other flavors shine. Plus, the warm rice adds a comforting element to each bowl.
Step 4: Make the Avocado Salsa
This avocado salsa is where the cool meets the spice. Mash the ripe avocados until silky and smooth. Stir in halved cherry tomatoes, freshly chopped cilantro, a good squeeze of lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The result is a creamy yet tangy topping that brings freshness and richness to the dish. This salsa can be made just before serving, preserving those vivid flavors and vibrant colors.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
Slice your grilled chicken into neat strips atop the fluffy rice. Then, spoon generous dollops of the avocado salsa on top. Layering the smoky chicken and creamy salsa together means every bite hits all the right notes—from spicy and smoky to fresh and creamy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately, perhaps with an extra drizzle of lime juice for an added zing. This is a dish best enjoyed fresh, where the contrast of warm grilled chicken and cooling avocado salsa makes every bite feel like a fiesta in your mouth.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your bowls, scatter freshly chopped cilantro or a few extra halved cherry tomatoes on top for a burst of freshness. Thin slices of red onion or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco can add a tangy crunch that complements the creamy avocado salsa perfectly.
Side Dishes
These burrito bowls pair beautifully with simple sides like tortilla chips and salsa or a light corn salad. You might also enjoy a refreshing cucumber and lime salad to add a crisp contrast that balances the richness of the chicken and avocado.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve these bowls in rustic, colorful ceramic dishes to make the vibrant ingredients pop? You could also present the components separately on a platter for a build-your-own style feast—ideal for entertaining or casual family dinners where everyone customizes their bowl exactly how they like it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover grilled chicken or avocado salsa, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the avocado salsa from browning too quickly.
Freezing
While you can freeze cooked chicken breasts, it’s best to avoid freezing the avocado salsa, as it can turn mushy and lose its vibrant color. Freeze the chicken and rice for up to 2 months and prepare fresh avocado salsa when ready to eat.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken and rice gently in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. Add the avocado salsa on top fresh after reheating to maintain its creamy texture and bright flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful and work wonderfully grilled. Just adjust the grilling time as thighs can take a little longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace the grilled chicken with grilled tofu or seasoned black beans for a plant-based version that still boasts fantastic texture and flavor.
Can I prepare the avocado salsa in advance?
You can prepare the avocado salsa about an hour before serving, but keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap touching the surface to minimize browning. For best taste, prepare it fresh.
What type of rice works best in this recipe?
Both white and brown rice work great here. Brown rice adds more nuttiness and fiber, whereas white rice offers a softer, lighter base. Choose based on your preference.
How spicy is this Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa Recipe?
This recipe has a moderate spice level mainly from the chili powder in the marinade. You can adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your heat tolerance.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines freshness, texture, and bold flavors effortlessly. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, its bright colors and irresistible taste are sure to bring a smile to your table. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why this has become one of my all-time favorite go-to meals!
Print
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl with Avocado Salsa is a flavorful and healthy meal that combines juicy marinated grilled chicken breasts with fluffy rice and a fresh avocado salsa. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, this recipe offers a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
Avocado Salsa
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Prepare the Rice: Cook the rice as per the package instructions until tender. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and keep it warm.
- Make the Avocado Salsa: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe avocados until creamy yet slightly chunky. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped fresh cilantro, lime juice, and season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Assemble Your Bowls: Slice the grilled chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Arrange the cooked rice as the base of each bowl, then layer the sliced chicken on top. Finish with generous spoonfuls of the fresh avocado salsa.
- Serve: Serve the burrito bowls immediately with an optional drizzle of extra lime juice for added brightness and zing.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of cumin or smoked paprika to the chicken marinade.
- Use brown rice for a whole grain option with more fiber.
- To keep this recipe low carb, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice.
- Avocado salsa is best consumed fresh to prevent browning.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or broil the chicken in the oven.
