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Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl Recipe Easy Weeknight Dinner with Simple Ingredients

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A quick and easy copycat recipe for Chipotle’s burrito bowl using simple ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights. This flavorful and customizable bowl balances smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors with minimal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice (185g)
  • 1 can black beans (15 oz / 425g), rinsed and drained
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (450g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
  • 1 large bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large lime (juice and zest)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional toppings: guacamole or sliced avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack), jalapeños (fresh or pickled)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rice with 2 cups water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Stir in the zest and juice of half a lime and a handful of chopped cilantro.
  2. While rice cooks, pat chicken dry and season both sides with 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5-6 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked through. Remove from pan and let rest.
  4. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Toss in sliced bell pepper and red onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened but still slightly crisp, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic in the last minute so it doesn’t burn. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  5. Cut the chicken into bite-sized strips or cubes.
  6. Assemble the bowl: start with a base of cilantro-lime rice, add a generous scoop of black beans, then pile on the chicken and sautéed veggies. Top with your favorite extras such as guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese, jalapeños, and an extra squeeze of lime.

Notes

Do not skip the lime and cilantro in the rice for authentic flavor. Use fresh spices for best taste. Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure better browning. Rinse canned beans well to reduce sodium and remove canning liquid flavor. Leftovers reheat well when components are stored separately. Spice level can be adjusted with jalapeños or hot sauce. Brown rice can be used but requires longer cooking time (40-45 minutes).

Nutrition

Keywords: Chipotle burrito bowl, copycat recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, chicken burrito bowl, cilantro lime rice, black beans, healthy Mexican food