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Copycat Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl with Cilantro Lime Rice

A close-up of a delicious chipotle chicken burrito bowl featuring seasoned chicken, rice, black beans, and a creamy white sauce.

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Create a satisfying, flavorful Chipotle style chicken burrito bowl at home using simple ingredients. This recipe includes instructions for the marinade, perfectly cooked chicken, and fresh cilantro lime rice for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • For Assembly: Cooked black beans, fajita vegetables (sautéed peppers and onions), shredded cheese, sour cream or Mexican crema, salsa, guacamole

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Add the cut chicken pieces, toss to coat completely, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  2. Cook the Cilantro Lime Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine the rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the chopped cilantro, 1/4 cup lime juice, and 1 teaspoon salt.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, reserving any extra marinade. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until cooked through and slightly charred. If using a skillet, you can add a splash of water or reserved marinade during the last minute to create a light sauce.
  4. Prepare Toppings: While the chicken cooks, quickly sauté sliced bell peppers and onions in a little oil until tender-crisp for fajita vegetables. Prepare or warm your black beans.
  5. Assemble Your Burrito Bowl: Start with a base of cilantro lime rice in your bowl. Top with a serving of the cooked chipotle-style chicken, black beans, fajita vegetables, and your choice of cheese, sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.

Notes

  • For a low carb burrito bowl option, skip the rice and use shredded lettuce as your base.
  • If you prefer to grill the chicken, marinate it for at least 1 hour for deeper flavor penetration.
  • To make a simple Mexican crema, mix 1/2 cup sour cream with 1 tablespoon lime juice and a pinch of salt.

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