This post contains affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy.
This healthy burrito bowl recipe gives you juicy, well-seasoned chicken, black beans, creamy avocado, and a heap of fresh vegetables all piled into one satisfying bowl. It’s the kind of thing you’ll want to make ahead, eat all week, and still not get sick of.
I have a soft spot for Chipotle’s burrito bowls—fresh, flavorful, packed with the good stuff. But takeout adds up, and some days I want a big Burrito bowl without putting on proper pants. So I started making my own. Same vibe, kinder on the wallet, and honestly better, since you get to play with the ingredients. They also make the kind of leftovers you actually look forward to.
While you’re on a bowl meal kick, check out my sheet-pan chicken fajita bowl, healthy rice bowl with salmon, and this high-protein canned tuna bowl. Great lunch recipes, reimagined.
Table of Contents
What You Need for a Burrito Bowl
A quick look at some of the essentials before we dive into the recipe:
- The base: long-grain white or brown rice works best.
- Protein: already-prepared shredded rotisserie chicken from the hot food counter at your grocery store is a really convenient option. You can also use up meat from leftovers like marinated chicken fajitas, ground turkey tacos, or spatchcocked chicken.
- Veggies: Chopped tomatoes, quick-pickled red onions or shaved red onion, sautéed fajita veggies, air fryer sweet potatoes, or corn.
- Toppings: Black beans or pinto beans, avocado or guacamole, and chopped cilantro are no-brainers. You could also add some Texas caviar if you have a batch made.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar, Mexican/taco blends, cotija, or a nice drizzle of queso.
- Sauces: A good hot sauce is always welcome if you like heat. I also love a few spoonfuls of Greek yogurt lime crema, or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream (extra protein, less fat).
- Seasoning: I use my taco seasoning recipe to season the chicken and the beans.
How to Make a Burrito Bowl
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If you’re cooking your own chicken, season it prior to cooking. Bake chicken breasts or thighs at 350ºF for 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160-165ºF, as measured with a meat thermometer. Then shred or cube it, and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Follow the package directions. For extra flavor, cook the rice in broth.
Step 3: Get the Fresh Stuff Ready
Clean and chop any vegetables you’re using, rinse your beans, and grate your cheese.
Step 4: Build a Delicious Burrito Bowl!
Scoop rice into a bowl, then top with the cooked chicken and whatever veggies and toppings you’re using.
Make It Your Own
- Different Grain Options: Brown rice is great for its lower glycemic index and higher fiber content. You could also use farro or quinoa.
- Low-Carb Version: Cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce. Still very satisfying.
- High-Protein Upgrade: Add an extra 4–6 oz chicken, toss in chickpeas, or add a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Vegetarian Option: Crispy, seasoned tofu, air-fried chickpeas, cubed baked sweet potato, or cauliflower florets.
Meal Prep & Storage
- Store components separately for maximum texture.
- Chicken keeps 3–4 days in an airtight container.
- Reheat chicken and rice (and beans if you prefer), then add veggies and toppings.
- For work lunches, pack crunchy veggies and any dressing or sauce separately to keep your lunch from getting soggy.
Healthy Burrito Bowl
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken, You can cook your own or, for convenience, get prepared shredded rotisserie chicken from the grocery store.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/3 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup prepared pico de gallo or chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup cooked black beans, rinsed well
- 2 tablespoon shredded cheese, more if you'd like!
- 1 tablespoon finely sliced or diced red onion
- 1/2 avocado, sliced or chopped
For serving:
- 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley or cilantro
- Lime wedge
- Sprinkle of chili flakes
- Drizzle of hot sauce
Instructions
- Cook rice as per the packages directions.
- Chop or shred the cooked chicken, then pop it into a small mixing bowl. Sprinkle some taco seasoning over it and toss to coat; set it aside.
- Prepare any other ingredients you're using (chop veggies and shred your cheese, etc.).
- Scoop the rice into a bowl and top it with the chicken, beans, cheese, pico de gallo, onion, and avocado.
- Sprinkle some taco seasoning over the beans. Add a generous scoop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream on top, then add chili flakes for an extra kick and some hot sauce.
- Finish your bowl off with some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve it with a lime wedge.
Notes
Nutrition
View more high-protein lunch ideas here!
I love burrito bowls so much that I often eat them for breakfast! The tortilla is just a “holder” anyway, and I’m all about cutting out unnecessary carbs. These ingredients are so varied and look so delicious!
I love that you eat them for breakfast! Now I’m thinking, omitting chicken and adding scrambled eggs to make this a brekky burrito bowl could just be a thing. A beautiful, genius thing! And you’re so right. It truly is just a “holder”! Love that perspective. Makes me miss it less.
Such a great option for lunch at home during the week. Thank you!
I agree! It’s in my regular rotation.
This burrito bowl is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
I’m glad you think so!
This is my go to when making a burrito bowl for lunch. All I do is throw them all together in a bowl and munch down! Its very delicious and I know what I’m putting in.
Yup! Love being able to control the portions of everything :)
This was such a hearty and healthy dinner option for a busy weeknight! Easily, a new favorite; my whole family loved it!
I’m so glad to hear this!
What an awesome recipe! This will definitely be my go to Burrito Bowl recipe come January. Thanks for sharing!
Ah yes, you too with the January health kick huh? This will be awesome! I’ll be there with ya ;)
I’ve recently cut out carbs and have been on the lookout for healthier recipes that fit my diet. This is perfect!
Excellent!
I am a big fan of these burrito bowls. Really like all that it is customizable to the likes of each person in the family.
Definitely a plus with these!
I am not a huge fan of bread (shocking, I know!) so I actually prefer my burritos served in a bowl. This recipe is exactly spot-on in flavor and texture. Very versatile, too.
I wish I wasn’t a fan of bread… haha ;)
Omg this burrito bowl is so amazing! i’m still drooling over this right now
Thank you!