One Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl

This One Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, creamy beans, and a blanket of bubbling cheese for an unbeatable weeknight dinner. The brilliant part is everything goes into one pan, which means dinner is on the table fast and cleanup is a breeze. This has been my go-to meal for busy evenings and is always a crowd-pleaser thanks to the customizable toppings and big flavors.

The first time I pulled this together was after a long weekday when I wanted something comforting with zero fuss. The aroma brought everyone into the kitchen before it was even done — now it is on steady rotation at my house.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: brings a lean protein that absorbs all the spices beautifully Try to use fresh chicken for the juiciest results
• Olive oil: helps sauté the aromatics and keeps everything from sticking Choose a full-bodied extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor
• Yellow onion: lends sweetness and depth Pick firm onions with no soft spots for freshness
• Long grain white rice: fluffs up nicely and holds the flavors Use uncooked rice for proper texture
• Canned diced tomatoes: create a saucy base and a bit of tang Drain them well to avoid extra moisture
• Black beans: give heartiness and fiber Go for no-salt-added beans so you can control the seasoning
• Garlic powder and onion powder: set the savory backdrop Choose good quality powders with a strong aroma
• Chili powder: provides warmth and color Pick one with a bold, deep hue
• Ground cumin: brings an earthy note Freshly ground cumin gives more punch
• Smoked paprika: adds a subtle smokiness Spanish smoked paprika gives the best depth
• Low-sodium chicken broth: provides moisture while letting you adjust salt preference Check for ingredients lists with fewer preservatives
• Colby Jack Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese: makes for creamy melt and flavor Grate your own for the best melt
• Kosher salt: enhances all the flavors Flakes dissolve evenly throughout the dish
• Fresh ground black pepper: for gentle heat Use freshly cracked for optimal aroma
• Fresh tomatoes: bring a cool juicy contrast Choose ripe but firm tomatoes
• Green onions: give fresh crispness and color Seek bright green stalks with no wilting
• Sour cream: adds creaminess and tang Use full fat for best richness
• Guacamole: offers extra creaminess and flavor Use ripe avocados for easy mashing and best taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat Add diced onions and cook for about two minutes until softened and fragrant This gentle roast unlocks their sweetness without browning

Brown the Chicken:

Toss chicken pieces with salt and pepper Add them to the pan and cook over medium high heat for around five minutes until lightly golden on the exterior Browning adds extra flavor

Toast the Rice:

Push the chicken to one side of the pan Add more olive oil to the empty space then pour in the uncooked rice Sauté for two minutes stirring to let the grains toast and pick up flavor from the pan

Build the Base:

Stir in black beans drained canned tomatoes chicken broth and all the spices including garlic powder onion powder chili powder smoked paprika and cumin Mix well so every grain and piece is coated with seasoning Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer so the flavors begin to meld

Simmer Until Tender:

Cover the pan and turn heat down to low Cook for twenty minutes until the rice is fully tender and all the liquid is absorbed This hands off time allows the rice to gently steam without burning

Season and Combine:

Remove the lid taste the dish and adjust with extra salt and pepper if needed Stir gently to bring all the components together without mashing the rice

Add Cheese and Melt:

Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top Cover again and let sit off heat for two or three minutes so the cheese melts into a luscious layer over the dish

Finish with Toppings:

Top the dish with fresh diced tomatoes green onions sour cream and guacamole This final layer adds brightness color and creamy balance

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I always love adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika not just for the taste but because it reminds me of the first family dinner I made this for My kids begged for extra cheese and the smoky aroma brought everyone together around the stove

Storage Tips

Once cooled store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days This dish also freezes well for up to one month Portion into single servings for quick lunches just reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken for ground turkey beef or even cooked tofu for a vegetarian version For extra veggies add bell peppers zucchini or frozen corn with the onions Dairy free cheese melts well or try leaving out the cheese entirely for a lighter bowl

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Serving Suggestions

This bowl is happiest with a side of tortilla chips or wrapped into warmed flour tortillas for a burrito Try it with fresh lime wedges or an extra spoonful of salsa for a flavor boost Sometimes I set up a topping bar so everyone can customize their own bowl

Cultural and Historical Context

Burrito bowls borrow the comforting layers of rice beans and spiced meat from classic Tex Mex burritos and taco fillings This version brings it together in one pan for modern families craving both flavor and ease It is a true melting pot dish that has become a weeknight staple in many homes

Common Queries

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Brown rice is possible, but will require extra liquid and a longer simmer to fully cook through.

→ How can I add more vegetables?

Try including diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or frozen corn for extra flavor and texture near the end of cooking.

→ What cheese works best?

Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Cheddar are classic, but any easy-melting cheese works well in this dish.

→ Can I substitute the chicken?

Yes, ground beef or turkey can be used in place of chicken for a different flavor profile. Adjust cooking times as needed.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The dish has a mild spice level from chili powder and smoked paprika, but you can increase or decrease these to taste.