One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a satisfying, one-stop dinner that’s impossibly comforting and bursting with flavor, look no further than the One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl. This recipe brings together juicy chicken, fluffy rice, plenty of veggies and melty cheese, all in a single skillet for easy prep and cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, you’ll love how every bite delivers Tex-Mex magic with zero fuss. Trust me, you’ll want this vibrant rice bowl in your regular rotation!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl recipe plays a starring role, combining textures and layers of flavor that truly make the dish shine. Simplicity is key here—you probably have most of these on hand, and together they create a meal that’s colorful, hearty, and absolutely crave-worthy.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces for perfectly juicy, quick-cooking protein.
• Olive oil: Just a splash is needed to sear the chicken and help the spices bloom.
• Long grain white rice: The base that absorbs all those amazing flavors; use uncooked for best results.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds savory depth and keeps everything tender without overseasoning.
• Black beans: Bring protein, creaminess, and a classic burrito bowl element; be sure to drain and rinse them well.
• Frozen corn: Sweet pop-in-your-mouth kernels amp up color and texture—no need to thaw first!
• Diced tomatoes: Use fresh or canned (drained); their juice subtly soaks into the rice.
• Red onion: Diced for a little crunch and a pop of bold color.
• Chili powder: Key to that unmistakable Tex-Mex flair; adjust to your preferred level of heat.
• Cumin: Earthy and aromatic, balancing the bolder spices.
• Garlic powder: Easiest way to infuse garlicky warmth throughout the dish.
• Paprika: A touch of smoky-sweet undertone that deepens flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste—these classics are essential for popping all the other flavors.
• Cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully on top for creamy, gooey finishing touch.
• Fresh cilantro & lime wedges: Garnishes that brighten and tie everything together with a burst of freshness.

How to Make One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and half of your chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until the chicken loses its pinkness and develops some golden edges. Don’t worry about cooking it through fully—it’ll finish with the rice later and stay ultra-tender.

Step 2: Add Rice and Veggies

Now for the fun part! Stir in the uncooked rice, black beans, frozen corn, diced tomatoes, and red onion. Sprinkle in the remaining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This medley of color and texture is what makes a One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl so irresistible—each spoonful is loaded with something different.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour the chicken broth evenly over everything in the pan and give it all a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture up to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover snugly with a lid and let it cook undisturbed for 18 to 20 minutes. The rice will turn fluffy, the chicken will finish cooking, and all the flavors will meld together in that one magical pan.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese

Once the rice is tender and the liquid has absorbed, turn off the heat. Sprinkle your shredded cheese all over the top and cover for a couple of minutes. The residual heat will melt the cheese perfectly, giving you gooey, stretchy perfection atop your One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, shower the dish with plenty of chopped cilantro and a squeeze or two of lime. This final touch instantly brightens up the bold, savory notes and makes that skillet look as good as it tastes.

How to Serve One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl

Garnishes

Garnishing couldn’t be easier—or more fun. Classic choices like chopped cilantro and fresh lime wedges add a pop of freshness, but why stop there? Try sliced avocado, dollops of sour cream, extra shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of sliced jalapeños for heat. Set up a toppings bar so everyone can make their One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl their own masterpiece.

Side Dishes

While this dish is totally satisfying on its own, it also pairs beautifully with extras on the side. Warm tortilla chips, a bright corn salad, or even a simple green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette take things up a notch. Craving more Tex-Mex flair? Serve your bowl with pico de gallo or guacamole for added freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to make dinner extra exciting? Spoon your One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl mixture into halved bell peppers and bake for a fun stuffed-pepper twist. Or roll it up in tortillas for the ultimate hand-held burritos. For parties, transform it into a make-your-own burrito bowl station where everyone dives in and customizes their own bowlful just the way they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is just as tasty the next day! Let it cool completely, then stash it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should keep well for up to four days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep lunches or quick dinners on the fly.

Freezing

If you want to get ahead, this recipe is freezer-friendly too. Portion your cooled burrito bowl into individual containers (skip the cheese garnish until reheating for best texture), then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a speedy homemade meal.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual servings on medium power, stirring halfway through, until piping hot. If you’re freshening up the whole pan, cover and warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth. Finish with fresh cilantro and lime—your One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl will taste like it’s straight off the stove!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice needs more liquid and a bit longer to cook. Add an extra 1/2 cup broth and plan for a total cook time of 35-40 minutes, checking to make sure the rice is tender.

What’s the best way to make this dairy free?

Swap in your favorite dairy-free cheese (or simply leave out the cheese altogether) for a One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl that’s still flavorful and creamy thanks to beans, tomatoes, and all those spices.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the chicken and use either extra black beans or add canned chickpeas for substance. Substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth and you’ll have a fabulous, protein-packed vegetarian meal.

How spicy is this recipe?

As written, the One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is mildly spicy. For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or more chili powder, or let everyone spice up their bowl with hot sauce at the table!

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely—just use a bigger skillet or Dutch oven to accommodate the extra volume, and keep the lid on tightly so all the rice cooks properly. Everyone will love scooping their own hearty bowlful.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving an effortless dinner with maximum flavor, the One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl delivers every single time. It’s fun, vibrant, endlessly adaptable, and always a hit with family and friends. Give it a try this week—you might just find it becomes your new go-to for busy nights and anytime comfort!

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