One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, flavor-packed dinner that you can throw together in one pan without a mess, you’re going to love this One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe. It’s like all the best parts of a burrito bowl—cheesy, savory, and loaded with fresh ingredients—without having to dirty a dozen dishes. When I first tried this recipe, it quickly became my go-to weeknight meal, especially on nights when I was short on time but still wanted a satisfying, homemade dinner. Stick with me, and I’ll show you how to make this fan-freaking-tastic dish come together in a snap!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that combine beautifully to create layers of flavor. Using pre-cooked chicken is my personal hack for speeding things along without sacrificing taste.

• Oil: I like a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for sautéing without overpowering the flavors.
• Red bell pepper: Adds a subtle sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
• Sweet yellow onion: Provides a savory base that softens perfectly when cooked.
• White rice: The starch that ties everything together—makes the dish hearty and filling.
• Cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my secret shortcut, but leftover grilled chicken works just as well.
• Salsa: Brings tanginess and a bit of spice to brighten up the dish.
• Chicken broth: Cooks the rice and infuses additional flavor—don’t use water if you want depth.
• Black beans: Rinsed and drained for that creamy, protein-packed texture.
• Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and some bite.
• Green chilies: Gives just a hint of smoky heat without overwhelming the dish.
• Taco seasoning: Essential for that authentic Southwest flavor blend.
• Cheddar cheese: The melty topping that brings everything together—you can’t skip this!

Variations

I love how flexible the One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe is—you can customize it in so many ways depending on your mood or what’s in your fridge. Feel free to make it your own!

• Vegetarian Version: I once swapped the chicken for extra beans and veggies, and honestly, it was just as satisfying and hearty.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce if you love heat like I do.
• Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack or a Mexican blend for a melty change that adds fun flavor dimensions.
• Fresh Toppings: Switch out garnishes like avocado or cilantro to keep it fresh and bright each time you make it.

How to Make One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies and Rice for Flavor

Start by heating your skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of oil. Toss in the chopped bell pepper, onion, and uncooked rice. Stir frequently as the rice and veggies cook for about 2 to 5 minutes. This step softens the veggies and toasts the rice just slightly, which adds an amazing nutty flavor you wouldn’t get otherwise. Just keep an eye that the rice doesn’t burn—stir if you see any sticking.

Step 2: Combine Chicken and All the Good Stuff

Next, stir in the chopped cooked chicken, salsa, chicken broth, black beans, corn, green chilies, and taco seasoning. This is where the magic happens—every ingredient mingles and starts to infuse the rice with all those rich burrito bowl flavors.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Bring your mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it cook undisturbed for 20 to 25 minutes, but like me, you can start peeking in around 17 minutes to make sure the rice is tender and has soaked up the liquid. Avoid the temptation to stir a lot here—you want the rice to cook evenly and gently without getting mushy.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Serve

Once the rice is nice and cooked through, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Let it melt into the hot mixture for a few minutes, then stir it all up. The melted cheese adds a creamy, luscious finish that makes this dish absolutely irresistible. Serve it up with your favorite toppings and get ready to dig in!

How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe

Garnishes

I always top mine with a handful of fresh cilantro for brightness, a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, and slices of ripe avocado to add that buttery texture. You can’t go wrong tossing on some fresh lime wedges, either—they really jazz up the flavors with acidity. These little finishing touches bring the dish from tasty to spectacular.

Side Dishes

Since this dish is already packed with goodness, I like to keep sides simple—think crunchy tortilla chips, a fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette, or even a quick corn and tomato salad for a refreshing crunch. If you want to make it more of a feast, refried beans or Mexican street corn make perfect companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner party, I’ve served this in individual mini cast iron skillets—it’s a fun and rustic way to show it off. Another time, I layered it in a clear trifle dish for a colorful burrito bowl parfait, garnished with chopped tomatoes and jalapeños. It’s a crowd-pleaser that doubles as eye candy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, so I actually think it tastes even better the next day. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing the container to keep everything fresh.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well! I portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

To keep the rice fluffy when reheating, add a splash of water or broth and cover your pan or microwave bowl. Heat it slowly on medium heat and stir occasionally until warmed through. The cheese will still melt nicely, making it taste just as comforting as when freshly made.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it strikes the perfect balance between simple prep and bold flavor. It’s the kind of meal I’m happy to serve on a busy weeknight but also proud to make when friends come over. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s comforting, easy, and downright delicious. I can’t wait to hear what your family thinks!

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