Mexican Chicken Burrito Bowl
Why this recipe works
- Smoky, savoury base: Cumin and smoked paprika season the chicken directly, so the flavour is built into the main protein rather than relying only on toppings.
- Easy to assemble: Rice, beans, corn and toppings can be portioned individually, making the bowl simple to adapt at the table.
- Good for planned meals: The warm components store well, while salsa, sour cream, coriander and lime can be kept separate for a fresher finish.
Get the most out of this recipe
Make-ahead tips
- Keep toppings separate: Store the rice, chicken, beans and corn together, but keep salsa, sour cream, coriander and lime separate so the bowl stays fresh rather than soggy.
- Reheat before adding cold toppings: Warm the cooked components until piping hot, then add the salsa, sour cream, herbs and lime just before serving.
- Portion for lunches: Divide the rice, beans, corn and sliced chicken into containers, then pack the fresh toppings separately to add after reheating.
Ingredient notes
- Chicken thighs stay tender: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are well suited to quick pan cooking because they remain juicy after browning.
- Use a salsa with body: A thicker salsa sits better on the bowl; very watery salsa is best added at the last moment to protect the texture of the rice.
- Finish with lime: A squeeze of lime lifts the beans, rice and sour cream, balancing the smoky seasoning and richness.
Texture tips
- Rest the chicken briefly: Let the cooked chicken sit for a couple of minutes before slicing so the juices settle and the pieces stay tender.
- Drain the rice well: After boiling, drain the rice thoroughly and keep it covered so it stays fluffy rather than wet in the bowl.
Equipment you'll need
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rice in salted boiling water until tender, 10–12 minutes. Drain well and cover to keep warm.
- Meanwhile, pat the chicken dry and season all over with the cumin, smoked paprika, salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning, until deeply browned and cooked through. Transfer to a board, rest for 2 minutes, then slice.
- Tip the black beans and corn into a colander and rinse well. Add them to the hot pan and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until warmed through; splash in a little water if the pan looks dry.
- Divide the rice between bowls and spoon over the warm beans and corn. Top with the chicken, then add salsa and a dollop of sour cream.
- Finely chop the coriander and scatter over the bowls. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing at the table.
Recipe notes
Tips
- For extra flavour, let the seasoned chicken sit while the rice cooks (about 10 minutes) before frying.
- If your salsa is very watery, spoon it on just before serving so the rice stays fluffy.
- If serving to anyone who is pregnant, elderly, or immunocompromised, make sure the chicken is cooked until piping hot throughout with no pink in the centre.
Substitutions
- Replace sour cream with greek-yogurt for a lighter, tangier topping.
- Replace smoked paprika with sweet-paprika for a milder, less smoky flavour.
Storage
- Refrigerate up to 3 days
- Store rice, chicken, beans and corn together in an airtight container; keep salsa, sour cream, coriander and lime separate if possible. Reheat the hot components in the microwave until piping hot, then add the cold toppings.
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Recipe overview
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Total time: 45min (20min active)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Mexican
-
Allergens:
Milk
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