Introduction
What if you could enjoy the flavors of your favorite burrito bowl without waiting in line at a restaurant—or dirtying half your kitchen? This One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl brings all the essentials—juicy chicken, fluffy rice, beans, corn, salsa, and toppings—together in a single skillet.
Not only does this dish save time with minimal cleanup, but it’s also customizable, budget-friendly, and ready in 35 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a fun DIY burrito bar for the whole family.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Rice Base:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For Toppings (Optional but Recommended):
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
- Fresh avocado or guacamole
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Compared to a traditional burrito bowl with separate cooking steps, this one-pan method cuts cooking time by nearly 40% while reducing dishes to wash.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
- Cook 5–6 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
- In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in rice and cook for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast.
Step 3: Add Liquids & Simmer
- Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, and black beans.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer 15 minutes until rice is cooked.
Step 4: Combine & Finish
- Return chicken to the skillet and stir everything together.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese, cover, and let melt for 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Top with avocado, salsa, sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice.
- Serve hot straight from the skillet.
Tips for Success
- Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- Don’t skip toasting the rice—it adds a nutty depth of flavor.
- For extra heat, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- Meal prep friendly: store toppings separately and assemble when ready to eat.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 460 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbs | 48g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 8g |
Healthier Alternatives
- Low-carb option: Swap rice for cauliflower rice (reduce broth by half).
- Dairy-free: Skip cheese or use a vegan alternative.
- High-protein: Add an extra can of black beans or pinto beans.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken with sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, or tofu.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm tortillas for a wrap-style burrito.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
- Offer a DIY topping bar for family dinners or gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not rinsing beans → can make the dish too salty.
- Uncooked rice → ensure the skillet is covered tightly while simmering.
- Overcooking chicken → sear until just cooked; it will finish heating when mixed back in.
- Too much liquid → adjust broth if using juicy tomatoes or canned corn.
Storing Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to refresh rice.
- Freeze portions for up to 2 months (without avocado or fresh toppings).
Conclusion
This One Pan Chicken Burrito Bowl is a complete, flavorful, and customizable meal that comes together in just 35 minutes. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, beans, and your favorite toppings, it’s a healthier and more affordable alternative to takeout.
👉 Try it tonight, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more one-pan recipe inspiration!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase cooking time to 35–40 minutes and add more broth.
Q2: Can I make it spicier?
Add jalapeños, cayenne, or hot salsa for extra heat.
Q3: Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely! Store in individual containers and add fresh toppings before serving.
Q4: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes—skip Step 1 and stir in shredded rotisserie chicken at the end.
Q5: Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Just use a larger skillet or Dutch oven to prevent overflow.
