There’s something so satisfying about building a colorful, vibrant bowl packed with flavors, textures, and fresh ingredients. When I’m craving a healthy but hearty meal, I always come back to this Delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans Recipe. The grilled chicken is juicy and smoky, the rice fluffy and filling, the beans tender, and the toppings burst with freshness.

I love how customizable and family-friendly this dish is. Everyone can tailor their bowl to their taste, piling on extra guacamole, sweet corn, or spicy salsa. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping — I can assemble everything ahead of time and enjoy it all week long without getting bored.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans Recipe

This recipe checks every box: it’s quick to prepare, loaded with nourishing ingredients, naturally gluten-free, and absolutely mouthwatering. You’ll adore the contrast between the warm, seasoned chicken and the cool, fresh toppings. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, prepping easy lunches, or entertaining friends, this burrito bowl will always impress.

What Type of Chicken Should I Use for Delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans Recipe?

When it comes to the star of the bowl — the chicken — I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they grill beautifully and stay juicy with the right seasoning. However, if you’re a fan of even richer, more tender meat, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative. They have a bit more fat, which means extra flavor! Either way, a good marinade or dry rub before grilling is key to locking in that smoky, savory taste.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best parts about burrito bowls is how flexible they are! Here’s how you can make easy swaps:

Chicken: Substitute grilled shrimp, steak, tofu, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Rice: Try brown rice, cilantro lime rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa if you want to mix things up or go low-carb.
Beans: Black beans, pinto beans, or even refried beans work well.
Corn: Fresh corn, roasted corn, or frozen corn all bring sweetness to the bowl.
Guacamole: If avocados aren’t available, a simple dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt makes a great creamy topping.
Pico de Gallo: Replace it with store-bought salsa or chopped fresh tomatoes with a squeeze of lime.
Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco if you like your bowl extra cheesy.
Greens: Add a handful of shredded lettuce, spinach, or arugula for a refreshing crunch.

Ingredients for Delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans Recipe

Chicken Breasts
Lean and packed with protein, they’re perfect for absorbing smoky grill flavors and seasoning.
Olive Oil
Helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and keeps it juicy during grilling.
Chili Powder
Adds a warm, smoky spice to the chicken, giving it a Tex-Mex flair.
Cumin
Brings a nutty, earthy depth that complements the other seasonings.
Paprika
Gives a mild heat and a beautiful color to the grilled chicken.
Garlic Powder
Infuses the chicken with a savory aroma that enhances every bite.
Salt and Pepper
Essential to heighten all the other flavors.
White Rice
A fluffy, neutral base that soaks up all the juices and toppings.
Black Beans
Add creaminess and fiber to make the bowl more satisfying.
Corn Kernels
Sweet pops of flavor that brighten the dish.
Guacamole
Creamy, rich, and full of healthy fats for extra indulgence.
Pico de Gallo (Tomato Salsa)
Fresh, tangy, and juicy — it balances out the richness of the other ingredients.
Fresh Cilantro
A finishing touch that brings herbal brightness to the bowl.
Lime Wedges
A squeeze of lime adds a fresh, zesty lift to all the flavors.

Delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice Beans Recipe2

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss them with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated with the spices. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15–30 minutes to really let those flavors soak in.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You should see gorgeous grill marks! Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

While the chicken is grilling, cook your white rice according to the package instructions. Fluff it with a fork once it’s done and keep it warm. You can add a squeeze of lime juice or a handful of chopped cilantro if you want to infuse extra flavor into your rice.

Step 4: Heat the Beans and Corn

In separate small saucepans, warm the black beans and corn kernels over medium heat. Season lightly with salt if needed. This step is simple but important — warm beans and corn bring a comforting touch to the burrito bowl.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Scoop a generous serving of rice into each bowl. Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on top, and then surround it with neat piles of black beans, corn, pico de gallo, and guacamole. Finish by sprinkling fresh cilantro and adding a lime wedge on the side for that perfect citrusy punch.

How Long to Cook the Delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans Recipe

The cooking time for this recipe is quite manageable, making it a great option even for busy weeknights:

Chicken: Grilling should take about 6–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Always aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe, juicy chicken.
Rice: Typically needs about 15–20 minutes to cook, depending on the variety.
Beans and Corn: Just a gentle 5-minute warming over medium heat — easy and quick.

Altogether, you can have everything ready in under 45 minutes with a little multitasking!

Tips for Perfect Delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans Recipe

Marinate Longer if You Can: If time allows, marinate the chicken for a few hours or even overnight. The flavor gets even deeper and more delicious.
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing keeps all the juices locked in.
Fluff Your Rice Properly: Once cooked, fluff it gently with a fork instead of stirring hard — it keeps the rice light and fluffy.
Char Your Corn: If you want a smoky twist, grill or char your corn lightly before adding it to the bowl.
Layer for Beauty: When assembling, place ingredients side-by-side instead of piling them all up — it makes the bowl colorful and inviting.
Customize Heat Levels: Add sliced jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce if you love extra spice.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pico de gallo, ripe avocados, and newly cooked rice make a world of difference in flavor.
Double Up for Meal Prep: Make extra chicken and rice — they store wonderfully for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Chicken: Nothing dries out a burrito bowl faster than overcooked chicken. Always use a meat thermometer and pull it off the grill once it hits 165°F (74°C).
Skipping the Marinade: Even a quick 15-minute marinade infuses essential flavor into the chicken. Don’t skip it!
Forgetting to Fluff the Rice: Stirring instead of fluffing can make rice clumpy — use a fork for best texture.
Serving Cold Toppings: Freshness matters! If prepping ahead, allow ingredients like guacamole and salsa to come to room temperature before serving.
Not Resting the Chicken: Cutting into the chicken immediately lets all the juices run out — let it rest to stay juicy.
Underseasoning the Beans and Corn: Even a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime can elevate these simple sides.
Overloading the Bowl: It’s tempting to pile on too much, but balanced portions keep each ingredient’s flavor shining through.
Ignoring Presentation: A beautifully layered bowl isn’t just Instagram-worthy — it makes the meal feel more special.

What to Serve With Delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans Recipe

1. Tortilla Chips and Salsa

Crunchy tortilla chips paired with a bright, spicy salsa make the perfect starter or side.

2. Fresh Mango Salad

A sweet and tangy mango salad adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky grilled chicken.

3. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Grilled corn slathered in creamy sauce, cotija cheese, and spices is an incredible complement.

4. Avocado Lime Dressing

Drizzle this creamy dressing over the bowl for an extra boost of flavor.

5. Spicy Black Bean Soup

A small bowl of hearty, spicy black bean soup rounds out the meal beautifully.

6. Cilantro Lime Rice

Even though the bowl already includes rice, offering a zesty cilantro lime version on the side makes it even better for larger gatherings.

7. Grilled Veggies

Grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and onions add a smoky, healthy side option.

8. Churros with Chocolate Sauce

End on a sweet note with crispy churros dipped in rich chocolate — because why not?

Storage Instructions

One of the best things about these burrito bowls is how well they store, making them perfect for meal prepping!

Chicken: Store grilled chicken slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm it in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying it out.
Rice: Keep cooked rice in a separate airtight container. It stays good in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Add a splash of water when reheating to keep it fluffy.
Beans and Corn: Store these together or separately in sealed containers for up to 4 days.
Toppings (Pico de Gallo, Guacamole, Cilantro): Fresh toppings are best enjoyed immediately. If needed, store them separately and consume within 1–2 days. Cover guacamole tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to slow browning.
Assembled Bowls: If you want to meal prep complete bowls, keep cold ingredients separate from hot ones and combine just before eating for the freshest taste.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving of this delicious burrito bowl (depending on toppings and portion sizes):

Calories: 550–650 kcal
Protein: 38–45 grams
Fat: 18–22 grams
Carbohydrates: 45–55 grams
Fiber: 8–10 grams
Sugar: 4–6 grams
Sodium: 700–900 mg

This makes it a well-balanced meal, loaded with lean protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates — exactly what you want for a satisfying lunch or dinner!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these burrito bowls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just keep the components (chicken, rice, beans, and toppings) stored separately and assemble right before eating to maintain freshness and texture.

2. What if I don’t have a grill?

No worries — you can cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or even in a regular skillet. Just make sure you still get a nice sear for flavor.

3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Definitely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Just adjust the cooking time as it usually takes longer than white rice.

4. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Of course! Swap the chicken for grilled tofu, tempeh, or even roasted vegetables to keep it plant-based without sacrificing flavor.

5. How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mildly spiced with chili powder and paprika, but you can easily kick up the heat by adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili flakes.

6. Can I freeze the assembled bowls?

It’s better to freeze the grilled chicken and rice separately. Fresh toppings like guacamole and pico de gallo don’t freeze well and should be added fresh.

7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For best results, reheat chicken and rice gently in a microwave or skillet. Top with fresh ingredients after warming.

8. Can I serve this to a crowd?

Yes! Set up a burrito bowl bar where guests can build their own — it’s fun, interactive, and perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a meal that’s colorful, customizable, hearty, and full of bright flavors, this Delicious Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Rice & Beans Recipe is your perfect match. I love how it balances smoky, juicy chicken with the comforting softness of rice and beans, all brought to life by vibrant, fresh toppings. It’s not just a meal — it’s a flavor-packed experience that fits into busy schedules, meal prep plans, and even lively gatherings with friends and family. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again!