Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl {better than takeout! }

If your family is anything like mine, Chipotle Night is basically a long-standing tradition. But here’s the secret: You can make that famous, juicy, flavorful chicken at home, and it actually so Simple.

This copycat Chipotle chicken comes with a quick blender marinade, a hot skillet (or grill or air fryer!), and about 15 minutes of hands-on time. Add some fluffy cilantro-lime rice, beans, and all your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a meal that’s just as satisfying as the restaurant version, but healthier and more affordable.

They’re customizable too! Kids love building their own things out of their favorite things, and you can make everything ahead of time for lunch and never get bored. It’s fresh, hearty, and tastes really like the real thing (maybe better).

before starting

A few simple tips will help you make burritos successfully.

• Let the chicken marinate. At least 15 minutes will do, but an hour or overnight is better for flavor and tenderness.
• Chicken thighs and breasts: The thighs stay juicier and more “Chipotle”-like, but the breasts work just as well. Pound them into an even thickness for best results.
• Don’t skip breaks. Let cooked chicken rest before slicing to retain more juiciness.
• Friendly in advance: Prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time and serve it freshly in your bowls throughout the week.

How to Make Copycat Jalapeño Chicken

Here’s how to get perfectly juicy, flavorful chicken just like your favorite taco bowl spot.

1. Mix marinade

Add sweet onions, cilantro, garlic, adobo sauce, olive oil, lime juice, ancho chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and water (or broth) to a blender or food processor. Stir until smooth.

2. Marinate chicken

Pour marinade over chicken thighs or breasts in a bowl or ziplock bag. Mix well. Marinate in refrigerator for at least 15 minutes (up to overnight).

3. Boil the chicken

Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron is perfect) to medium-high heat. Spray with oil or drizzle with a little more olive oil. Cook chicken 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). You can also grill or air fry at 400°F for 6-7 minutes per side.

4. Rest and slice

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or cutting it into bite-size pieces.

Pro tip: Double the chicken and freeze half for a super quick future burrito bowl or tacos!

How to Make Burrito Bowls (Like Chipotles!)

Now comes the fun part: putting everything together!

1. Make Cilantro Lime Rice

Toss the cooked rice with half the chopped cilantro and half the lime juice. Season with salt, pepper and a little oil if you like.

2. Make the corn salsa

Combine corn, diced red onion, remaining cilantro, remaining lime juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Build the bowl

Top the bowl with cilantro-lime rice, corn salsa, black beans, chopped lettuce, pico de gallo and cheese.

4. Add chicken and ingredients

Top with sliced ​​jalapeño chicken and top with additional toppings like green salsa or red salsa, sour cream, avocado, guacamole, pico de gallo, fajita veggies, or hot sauce.

Pro tip: Warm the bowl and tortillas before assembling to keep everything nice and melty.

Recipe tips, swaps and variations

Let’s make this recipe something for everyone at the table.

• Low carb: Switch to cauliflower rice and eat more lettuce and vegetables.
• Dairy-free: Skip the cheese and sour cream, or use your favorite dairy-free substitute.
• in advance: Prepare chicken, rice and salsa 3 days in advance. Assemble when you’re ready to eat.
• Suitable for children: Let the little ones build their own bowls! They’ll love it (and maybe even sneak in some veggies).

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

These bowls are made for meal prep (and the leftovers are just as delicious).

• Meal Preparation: Store chicken, rice, beans and toppings in separate containers and will keep for 3-4 days. Assemble bowl as desired.
• Frozen chicken: Cooked chicken can be stored frozen for up to 3 months, simply thaw and reheat.
• Remaining thoughts: Stuff leftovers into burritos or quesadillas, or serve them on a salad for a whole new meal.