Description
These Burrito Bowls with Pico de Gallo and Chipotle Aioli are a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Juicy, spiced chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, zesty pico de gallo, and smoky chipotle aioli for a balanced dish full of bold flavors. Quick to assemble and highly customizable, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pico de Gallo:
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, minced (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Pinch of salt
For the Chipotle Aioli:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1/2 cup black beans (optional)
- 1/2 cup sautéed bell peppers (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate and Cook the Chicken
- Combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken thoroughly in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight).
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side (thighs) or 6-8 minutes per side (breasts), until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Rice
- Cook the rice according to package instructions. For extra flavor, stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro once it’s cooked.
- Make the Pico de Gallo
- In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss well and set aside.
- Blend the Chipotle Aioli
- Mix mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, lime juice, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Adjust spice level as needed.
- Assemble the Bowls
- Start with a base of rice in each bowl. Add sliced chicken, pico de gallo, and any additional toppings like black beans or sautéed bell peppers. Drizzle with chipotle aioli and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, bold flavors!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner