Burrito Bowls with Pico de Gallo & Chipotle Aioli

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If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful, and customizable meal, these Burrito Bowls with Pico de Gallo and Chipotle Aioli are exactly what you need. Packed with tender, spiced chicken, fluffy rice, fresh pico de gallo, and a smoky chipotle aioli drizzle, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, these bowls are as versatile as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love These Burrito Bowls

Burrito bowls are the ultimate combination of flavor, texture, and convenience. This recipe layers perfectly seasoned protein with refreshing veggies, creamy sauce, and hearty rice, creating a complete meal in a single bowl.

Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a favorite:

• Balanced Flavor Explosion: From smoky chipotle aioli to fresh, zesty pico de gallo, each bite has just the right mix of bold flavors.
• Quick and Customizable: Whether you prefer chicken, beef, shrimp, or a vegetarian option, this bowl works for everyone.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make all the components ahead of time for easy, grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

This dish is all about balance and flavor, making it a must-try for anyone who loves a fresh and hearty meal.

Ingredients for Burrito Bowls with Pico de Gallo & Chipotle Aioli

Creating these burrito bowls requires fresh ingredients that blend together beautifully for a vibrant and satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Breast or Thighs – Juicy, tender chicken seasoned with bold spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic. These spices create a smoky, savory flavor.
• Cooked Rice – Fluffy white or brown rice serves as the base for the bowl. You can also use cilantro-lime rice for an extra burst of flavor.
• Pico de Gallo – A fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, red onions, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice. It adds a zesty, refreshing contrast.
• Chipotle Aioli – A creamy, smoky sauce made with chipotle peppers in adobo, mayonnaise, lime juice, and a hint of garlic. This ties all the flavors together.
• Bell Peppers (optional) – Sautéed bell peppers add extra crunch and sweetness to the bowl.
• Black Beans (optional) – For additional protein and heartiness, you can include seasoned black beans.
• Cilantro (for garnish) – A sprinkle of fresh cilantro enhances the flavor and presentation.

How to Make Burrito Bowls with Pico de Gallo & Chipotle Aioli

These burrito bowls come together in a few simple steps, making them a perfect option for a quick yet satisfying meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Marinate the chicken in a mixture of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, lime juice, and olive oil for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).
• Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and has a nice char. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

• While the chicken marinates, cook your rice according to the package instructions. For added flavor, stir in a squeeze of lime juice and a handful of chopped cilantro once the rice is cooked.

Step 3: Make the Pico de Gallo

• In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and fresh cilantro. Squeeze in lime juice and add a pinch of salt to taste. Toss well and set aside.

Step 4: Blend the Chipotle Aioli

• In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with a teaspoon of finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of garlic powder. Adjust the spice level by adding more chipotle as desired.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

• Start with a base of rice in each bowl. Arrange the sliced chicken, pico de gallo, and any additional toppings like sautéed bell peppers or black beans over the rice.
• Drizzle generously with chipotle aioli. Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime if desired.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the burrito bowls immediately while the chicken is still warm. Mix everything together in the bowl for the ultimate flavor-packed bite!

How Long to Cook the Chicken

Cooking time for the chicken is key to achieving juicy, flavorful bites. Here’s a guide to help you cook it to perfection:

• Boneless Chicken Thighs – Cook for 4-5 minutes per side on medium-high heat, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Chicken Breasts – Depending on thickness, cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

Always let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after cooking to lock in the juices.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover burrito bowl ingredients, they can be stored separately and enjoyed later. Here’s how:

• Chicken: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.
• Rice: Refrigerate the cooked rice in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Add a splash of water when reheating to keep it fluffy.
• Pico de Gallo: Since it’s made with fresh ingredients, pico de gallo is best consumed within 1-2 days. Store it in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container.
• Chipotle Aioli: This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tips for Perfect Burrito Bowls

These tips will ensure your burrito bowls turn out amazing every time:

• Adjust the Heat: If you love spicy food, add extra chipotle peppers to the aioli or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the chicken. For a milder option, reduce the chipotle or use sweet bell peppers instead of jalapeños.
• Add Toppings: Feel free to include extras like shredded cheese, avocado slices, corn, or a dollop of sour cream to elevate the bowl.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly made pico de gallo and herbs make a big difference in the flavor and presentation of your bowl.
• Meal Prep Like a Pro: Cook the chicken, rice, and beans ahead of time and store them in separate containers. Assemble the bowls when ready to eat for a quick, stress-free meal.

With these tips, you’ll have a perfectly balanced and delicious burrito bowl every time!

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