Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Copycat
If you crave the vibrant flavors and freshness of a Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl but want to enjoy it in the comfort of your own kitchen, look no further! This Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Copycat recipe brings all the deliciousness right to your table. Packed with juicy chicken, zesty lime, and a medley of toppings, this bowl is not only satisfying but also customizable to your liking. Let’s dive into why this dish is worth your time and how you can make it a star in your meal rotation!
Why Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Copycat is Worth Your Time
When it comes to quick and tasty meals, the Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl stands out as a favorite for many. But why go out when you can create this delightful dish at home? Here are a few reasons:
- Flavorful Ingredients: Each component of the bowl is loaded with flavor, from the marinated chicken to the fresh toppings.
- Customizable: You can personalize your bowl with your choice of toppings and ingredients, making it perfect for every palate.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward preparation steps, you can whip up this delicious bowl in no time!
- Healthy Option: By using whole ingredients, you can control the nutritional value and make healthier choices.
What Goes In
To create your own Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Copycat, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, roughly diced
- 4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
- 1 red chili pepper, diced
- 1 chipotle pepper
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs, or 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup cooked black beans
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup guacamole
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- Sliced jalapeño pepper
- Chopped cilantro
- 1 cup sweet corn
- Lime wedges on the side
Must-Have Equipment
Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment handy:
- Skillet: For cooking the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
- Cutting Board: Essential for prepping your ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp knife will make chopping a breeze.
- Mixing Bowl: To marinate your chicken with the spice mixture.
- Serving Bowls: For assembling your delicious burrito bowls.
Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Copycat: From Prep to Plate
Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, it’s time to bring this Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Copycat to life! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced onion, chopped garlic, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, diced jalapeño and red chili peppers, chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, olive oil, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade. Add the chicken thighs or breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken, cooking for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the skillet and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice and Beans
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your rice according to package instructions. If you’re using canned black beans, heat them in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
In serving bowls, layer the cooked rice at the bottom. Top with black beans, sliced chicken, and a generous amount of shredded lettuce. Then, sprinkle shredded cheese, sweet corn, and salsa on top. Add dollops of sour cream and guacamole for creaminess.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
Garnish your burrito bowls with sliced jalapeño peppers and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy your homemade Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Copycat!
Texture-Safe Substitutions
If you want to modify your bowl to suit your taste or dietary preferences, consider these substitutions:
- Use tofu or tempeh as a protein alternative for a vegetarian option.
- Replace rice with quinoa for a nutty flavor and added protein.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier twist.
- Try vegan cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Testing Timeline
The good news is that this Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Copycat can be prepared and enjoyed in under an hour. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Marinating time: 30 minutes (or overnight)
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Assembling bowls: 10 minutes
This means you can have a delicious family meal ready in less than an hour, perfect for busy weeknights!
Storing Tips & Timelines
If you have leftovers or want to meal prep, here’s how to store your burrito bowl components:
- Chicken: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Rice and Beans: Keep separately in airtight containers, good for 4-5 days in the fridge.
- Toppings: Store in separate containers; fresh ingredients like lettuce and guacamole are best used within 1-2 days.
To reheat, simply warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. Assemble your bowl fresh when ready to enjoy!
Popular Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure to fully thaw it before marinating and cooking to maintain even cooking and flavor absorption.
What can I substitute for rice?
For a different base, consider using cauliflower rice, quinoa, or even a bed of greens for a lighter option.
Is there a vegetarian version of this bowl?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables, tofu, or a bean medley to keep it hearty and satisfying.
How can I add more spice to the bowl?
If you love heat, consider adding more diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or even more chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the marinade!
Our Most-Loved Recipes
If you’re enjoying this Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Copycat, you might also love these delicious recipes:
- Chipotle Lime Shrimp Penne
- Creamy Chipotle Chicken Penne
- Mediterranean Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes
Before You Go
Now that you’re equipped with this fantastic recipe, it’s time to bring the flavors of Chipotle right into your kitchen. With a bit of preparation and the right ingredients, you can whip up a delicious Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Copycat that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy your meal!
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Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Copycat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced onion, chopped garlic, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, diced jalapeño and red chili peppers, chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, olive oil, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade. Add the chicken thighs or breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken, cooking for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the skillet and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare your rice according to package instructions. If you’re using canned black beans, heat them in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- In serving bowls, layer the cooked rice at the bottom. Top with black beans, sliced chicken, and a generous amount of shredded lettuce. Then, sprinkle shredded cheese, sweet corn, and salsa on top. Add dollops of sour cream and guacamole for creaminess.
- Garnish your burrito bowls with sliced jalapeño peppers and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy your homemade Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Copycat!
Notes
- Marinate the chicken overnight for more intense flavor.
- Feel free to customize toppings based on your preferences.
- This bowl is best enjoyed fresh, but components can be stored separately.
