Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Here’s a delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of a burrito without the extra carbs! Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa are perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a quick lunch. This recipe combines tender grilled chicken, seasoned quinoa, and a vibrant avocado salsa that brings freshness to every bite. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: Enjoy the rich taste of grilled chicken paired with savory spices and fresh ingredients.
• Healthy Alternative: Quinoa replaces the tortilla for a nutritious option that’s high in protein and fiber.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this flavorful recipe, gather your tools to make preparation seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides the ideal cooking environment for perfectly grilled chicken.
• Medium saucepan: Necessary for cooking quinoa to fluffy perfection.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for preparing and mixing ingredients like the avocado salsa.
• Meat mallet: Ensures even cooking by flattening chicken breasts.

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 Bowl

• 1 1/2 cups dry quinoa
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 Tbsp ancho chili powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil

For Toppings

• 1 2/3 cups frozen corn (warmed) (optional)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans (warmed along with liquid from the can then drained) (optional)
• Mexican blend cheese or queso fresco (optional)
• Plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream (optional)

For Avocado Salsa

• 3 medium roma tomatoes (diced)
• 1 1/2 medium avocados (diced)
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion (rinsed)
• 1 jalapeño (seeded for less heat if desired 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: Cook the Quinoa

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

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to 425°F. In a small bowl, whisk together ancho chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness using the flat side of a meat mallet. Brush both sides with olive oil and coat with the spice mixture. Grill chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F on an instant-read thermometer—about 4 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate, cover it, and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare Avocado Salsa

While the chicken rests, make the avocado salsa. In a medium mixing bowl, gently toss together diced tomatoes, avocados, red onion, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble Burrito Bowls

Divide cooked quinoa among serving bowls. Top each bowl with sliced grilled chicken, warmed corn, black beans if using, cheese if desired, avocado salsa, and Greek yogurt. Serve immediately!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Serving Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa is all about creativity and personalization. You can customize each bowl according to your taste while ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Individualize Your Bowls

• Add Extra Protein: Consider topping your burrito bowl with extra grilled shrimp or tofu for added protein.
• Include More Veggies: Fresh spinach, bell peppers, or roasted zucchini can enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
• Offer a Variety of Salsas: Besides avocado salsa, serve fresh pico de gallo or corn salsa for more options.
• Garnish with Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime can brighten the flavors and add a zesty kick.

Pair with Toppings

• Cheese Choices: Use Mexican blend cheese, queso fresco, or even feta for a unique twist.
• Creamy Elements: Offer plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream as an alternative to balance the spice.
• Spicy Kick: Provide sliced jalapeños on the side for those who enjoy a little heat.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

To make your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls truly shine, consider these tips that will elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavors: Marinate the chicken longer in spices for deeper flavor absorption.
• Cook Quinoa Correctly: Rinse quinoa before cooking; it removes bitterness and enhances its nutty flavor.
• Rest Your Chicken: Allowing grilled chicken to rest helps retain its juices, making it tender and flavorful.
• Balance Textures: Incorporate crunchy elements like tortilla chips or toasted nuts for added texture contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Complement your Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa by serving them alongside these delightful side dishes. Each option adds something special to your meal.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A fresh salad made with corn, lime, cilantro, and cotija cheese that brings summer vibes to your table.
2. Black Bean Salad: A hearty mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing for a refreshing side that pairs well.
3. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips makes for an irresistible appetizer.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fragrant rice infused with cilantro and lime juice complements the flavors of the burrito bowl perfectly.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes seasoned and roasted until crispy add a comforting element to the meal.
6. Chips and Salsa Trio: Serve an assortment of salsas—mild, medium, and hot—for guests to choose their preferred heat level.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Ignoring the cooking times: Cooking quinoa or chicken for too long can lead to mushy textures. Always adhere to recommended cooking times for best results.

• Overseasoning: While spices enhance flavor, too much seasoning can overpower the dish. Start with smaller amounts and adjust as you taste.

• Skipping the resting time: Not letting the grilled chicken rest after cooking can lead to dry meat. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before cutting to retain moisture.

• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using stale or old produce can diminish the quality of your avocado salsa. Always opt for fresh ingredients to boost flavor and nutrition.

• Not adjusting spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, remember that jalapeños can be spicy. Adjust accordingly by removing seeds or using less.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure ingredients are cooled before sealing containers.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They will last up to 2-3 months when frozen.
• Consider freezing components separately (chicken, quinoa, etc.) for better texture upon reheating.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bowls in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warm.

• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.

• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, cover, and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all components in advance and store them separately. Assemble just before serving for freshness.

What can I substitute for quinoa in this recipe?

You can use brown rice or cauliflower rice if you prefer a different base. Both options work well and maintain the healthy aspect of the dish.

How do I store leftover Avocado Salsa?

Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent browning, you can add extra lime juice on top before sealing.

Can I use another type of protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or beef based on your preference or dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Salsa offer a delicious twist on traditional burritos while keeping things nutritious and satisfying. This versatile recipe allows for plenty of customization; feel free to experiment with different proteins or toppings based on what you love most. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!