Background and History
The Naked Chicken Burrito Bowl is a modern twist on the traditional burrito, offering a lighter and healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Burritos originated in Mexican cuisine, featuring a flour tortilla filled with a variety of ingredients such as rice, beans, meat, and vegetables. The “naked” version simply omits the tortilla, turning the dish into a hearty and colorful bowl. This adaptation caters to those seeking low-carb or gluten-free alternatives, making it a popular choice among health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients and Interesting Facts
The Naked Chicken Burrito Bowl combines fresh ingredients with bold flavors to create a satisfying meal. Key components include seasoned grilled chicken, rice, beans, fresh vegetables, and zesty toppings like salsa and guacamole. This dish not only delivers on taste but also packs a punch with essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.
Recipe Details
Serves
- 4
Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time
- 25 minutes
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bowl Components
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Toppings
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken breasts and coat evenly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Cook the Chicken
- Preheat grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Bowl Components
- While chicken is grilling, cook the brown rice or cauliflower rice according to package instructions.
- Heat black beans and corn in a small saucepan over medium heat until warm.
Assemble the Bowls
- Divide cooked rice among four bowls.
- Top with black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado slices, and shredded cheese if using.
- Add sliced grilled chicken on top.
Add Toppings
- Finish each bowl with a dollop of salsa and guacamole.
- Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Drizzle hot sauce if desired.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 5g
Notes
- Substitutions: You can substitute chicken with tofu or grilled shrimp for a different protein option.
- Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Store all components separately and assemble just before eating.
- Customization: Feel free to add or omit ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
Allergy Warning
- Contains: Dairy (if using cheese or sour cream).
- May Contain: Soy (if using certain brands of salsa or packaged foods).
- Cross-Contamination: Ensure all ingredients are processed in a facility free from allergens if you have severe allergies.
What does a chicken burrito bowl contain?
A chicken burrito bowl typically contains seasoned grilled chicken, rice, black beans, corn, fresh vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, and avocado, along with toppings such as salsa, guacamole, cheese, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Are burrito bowls healthy?
Yes, burrito bowls can be very healthy, especially when made with fresh, whole ingredients. They provide a balanced meal with lean protein, healthy fats, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
What is a burrito bowl made of?
A burrito bowl is made of ingredients typically found in a burrito but served in a bowl instead of a tortilla. Common components include rice, beans, protein (such as chicken, beef, or tofu), vegetables, and various toppings like salsa, guacamole, cheese, and sour cream.
How to store meal prep burrito bowls?
To store meal prep burrito bowls, keep all components separate in airtight containers. Store the cooked chicken, rice, beans, and vegetables in the refrigerator. Add fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, and cilantro just before serving to keep them fresh.
Is a burrito bowl served hot or cold?
A burrito bowl can be served either hot or cold. Typically, the rice, beans, and protein are served warm, while the fresh vegetables and toppings can be added cold or at room temperature.
How do you meal prep burritos without them getting soggy?
To prevent burritos from getting soggy when meal prepping, store wet ingredients like salsa and guacamole separately and add them just before eating. Ensure that all cooked ingredients are cooled before assembling to avoid steam making the burrito soggy.
How long is a burrito bowl good for?
A burrito bowl is typically good for 3 to 4 days when stored in the refrigerator. Keep all components in separate airtight containers to maintain freshness.
How long does a burrito last in the fridge?
A burrito can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. For best results, store it in an airtight container and reheat it thoroughly before eating.
Are burritos healthy?
Burritos can be healthy depending on the ingredients used. Opting for whole grains, lean proteins, plenty of vegetables, and minimal added fats can make a burrito a nutritious meal.
Why is it called a burrito bowl?
It is called a burrito bowl because it contains all the typical ingredients of a burrito, such as rice, beans, protein, and toppings, but is served in a bowl rather than wrapped in a tortilla.
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