Pioneer Woman Burrito Bowl

This Pioneer Woman Burrito Bowl is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings all the best components of a burrito into a satisfying, mess-free bowl. With juicy marinated chicken, zesty cilantro-lime rice, beans, veggies, and your favorite toppings, it’s a wholesome meal that’s fresh, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and flavorful with bold Tex-Mex ingredients
• Easy to customize with your favorite proteins and toppings
• Great for make-ahead lunches or dinners
• Naturally gluten-free with whole, healthy ingredients
• Family-friendly and fun to assemble
• Balanced with protein, carbs, and veggies
• Stores well for leftovers
• Simple prep and minimal clean-up
• Can be scaled up for entertaining or gatherings
• Delicious hot or cold

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil
• Lime juice
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

For the cilantro-lime rice

• Long grain white rice
• Water or chicken broth
• Lime juice and zest
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt

For the bowl assembly

• Romaine lettuce, chopped
• Black beans, rinsed and drained
• Corn (frozen or canned), drained
• Avocado, diced
• Tomatoes or salsa
• Red onion, diced (optional)
• Shredded cheese (optional)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Directions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chopped chipotle peppers, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably a few hours.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Let rest, then slice.
3. Make the rice: Cook rice according to package directions using water or broth. Once done, stir in lime zest, juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt.
4. Prepare toppings: Chop lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and onion. Rinse and drain the beans and corn.
5. Assemble bowls: Layer rice and lettuce in the bottom of each bowl. Top with sliced chicken, beans, corn, avocado, tomatoes, and onion.
6. Add garnishes: Finish with sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40–45 minutes (plus marinating)

Variations

• Swap the protein: Use grilled steak, shrimp, ground beef, tofu, or skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian version
• Use a grain alternative: Try quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice
• Add heat: Mix in jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa
• Vegan version: Omit cheese and sour cream, and use a plant-based protein
• Low-carb: Skip the rice and load up on lettuce and extra veggies

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheating: Warm chicken and rice in the microwave or skillet; assemble fresh with cold toppings
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and rice separately. Thaw overnight before reheating and assembling bowls

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare all components in advance and assemble just before eating.

What kind of chicken is best?

Chicken breasts or thighs both work. Thighs are juicier; breasts are leaner.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Just warm and season it for extra flavor.

Is it spicy?

The chipotle adds mild heat. Adjust the amount to your preference.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, microwaveable rice or leftover rice works well—just add lime and cilantro.

What if I don’t have chipotle peppers?

Use smoked paprika and a dash of hot sauce as a substitute.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Omit the cheese and sour cream or use dairy-free alternatives.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes—it makes a delicious cold salad-style bowl.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep rice, protein, and toppings in separate containers to maintain texture.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, simply scale up the ingredients. Set up a burrito bowl bar for easy serving.

Conclusion

The Pioneer Woman Burrito Bowl is a wholesome, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that combines all the best burrito ingredients in one convenient bowl. With endless customization options and simple prep, it’s a delicious way to feed a crowd, pack lunch, or enjoy a fresh, satisfying dinner any day of the week.

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