Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime

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The Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime is the kind of dish that instantly makes any mealtime feel vibrant and satisfying. It’s colorful, packed with flavor, and offers a perfect balance of textures. The seasoned, juicy chicken pairs wonderfully with creamy guacamole, crisp corn, hearty black beans, and a tangy lime crema that ties everything together. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast—zesty, creamy, fresh, and savory—all nestled in one nourishing bowl.

What’s even better is how adaptable this dish is. Whether you’re meal-prepping for a busy week, entertaining guests with a DIY burrito bowl bar, or simply craving a wholesome yet comforting meal, this bowl checks every box. The components can be customized to your taste or dietary needs, making it a go-to for many occasions. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easily made dairy-free if needed.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime

• Fresh & Flavorful: Bright flavors from lime, cilantro, and guacamole elevate each bite.
• Balanced Meal: Includes lean protein, fiber-rich beans, veggies, and healthy fats.
• Customizable: Perfect for adding your favorite toppings or switching up the protein.
• Meal Prep Friendly: The components store well for several days, making it ideal for batch cooking.
• Quick & Easy: Minimal cooking required with lots of fresh ingredients and pantry staples.
• Visually Appealing: A colorful bowl that looks as good as it tastes—great for impressing dinner guests or brightening your lunch break.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making a Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime is a straightforward process, but having the right tools on hand will make it even more seamless and enjoyable. Each piece of equipment serves a purpose to streamline prep and ensure the best results:

• Sharp Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: Essential for chopping the chicken, tomatoes, cilantro, and slicing the lime. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and preserves the texture of your ingredients.
• Non-stick Skillet or Grill Pan: To cook the chicken to golden, juicy perfection. A grill pan adds attractive sear marks and extra flavor.
• Mixing Bowls: Use separate bowls for prepping the guacamole, mixing the lime crema, and tossing any other toppings.
• Can Opener: Handy for opening canned black beans.
• Fine Mesh Strainer or Colander: For rinsing the black beans and draining excess liquid.
• Citrus Juicer (optional): Helps extract the most juice from your lime with ease.
• Serving Bowls: Wide, shallow bowls are ideal for building burrito bowls and displaying all the colorful components.

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Preparation Tips

• Marinate the Chicken: If time allows, marinate the chicken with lime juice, olive oil, and your favorite taco seasoning for 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice, ripe avocados, and crisp veggies will make a big difference in taste and texture.
• Prep Ahead: Cook the chicken, prepare the beans, and chop the veggies in advance to save time during assembly.
• Drain Well: Be sure to thoroughly rinse and drain canned black beans to avoid excess liquid in your bowl.
• Guacamole Timing: Prepare the guacamole just before serving to keep it bright and fresh. If making ahead, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to minimize browning.
• Customize Heat: Adjust the level of spice in your chicken seasoning or add sliced jalapeños if you prefer a spicier bowl.
• Balance Textures: Aim for a mix of creamy (guac, crema), crisp (corn, tomatoes), and hearty (chicken, beans) components for the perfect bowl.

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Ingredients for this Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Guacamole

• 2 ripe avocados
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Lime Crema

• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• Pinch of salt

For the Bowl Components

• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned), warmed
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

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Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Place the diced chicken breasts in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with taco seasoning, and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top. Toss to coat evenly. If you have time, let the chicken marinate for 15–30 minutes for deeper flavor.

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Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Guacamole

In a medium bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until you reach your desired texture—chunky or smooth. Stir in lime juice, chopped red onion, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.

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Step 4: Prepare the Lime Crema

In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. Keep chilled until ready to use.

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Step 5: Warm the Bowl Components

Warm the black beans and corn (either in the microwave or on the stovetop) until heated through. Drain off any excess liquid.

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Step 6: Assemble the Burrito Bowls

Grab your serving bowls and start building:

1. Add a generous scoop of black beans and corn.
2. Top with the cooked chicken.
3. Spoon over a dollop of guacamole and a swirl of lime crema.
4. Scatter diced tomatoes and fresh cilantro on top.
5. Finish with a wedge of lime for squeezing just before eating.

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Notes

• Chicken Options: You can swap chicken breast for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut. Grilled or rotisserie chicken also works beautifully for a shortcut.
• Vegan Variation: Replace the chicken with seasoned tofu, tempeh, or sautéed mushrooms for a plant-based version.
• Taco Seasoning: If using homemade taco seasoning, adjust the salt level to your taste.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed bell peppers, shredded lettuce, red cabbage, or pickled onions for extra crunch and nutrients.
• Rice Base: Though this recipe focuses on the toppings, feel free to add a bed of cilantro-lime rice or quinoa for a more filling bowl.
• Guacamole Tip: Keep guacamole covered tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to prevent browning.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breast can dry out quickly. Cook just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and remove from heat.
• Using Unripe Avocados: Guacamole made from under-ripe avocados will taste bland and be hard to mash. Use perfectly ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.
• Skipping the Drain Step: Always drain and rinse canned beans thoroughly. Excess liquid can make your bowl watery.
• Under-seasoning: Taste each component, especially the guacamole and lime crema, to ensure they’re seasoned well. A little extra lime or salt can make a big difference.
• Cold Chicken: Serve the chicken warm for optimal flavor and comfort. If prepping ahead, quickly reheat it before assembling your bowl.
• Crowded Pan: If cooking a larger batch of chicken, cook in batches to avoid steaming instead of browning.
• Neglecting Fresh Lime: Bottled lime juice lacks the vibrant punch of fresh lime—use fresh limes whenever possible.
• Overloading the Bowl: While it’s tempting to pile on toppings, balance is key. Aim for a variety of textures without overwhelming the bowl.

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What to Serve With Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime?

Adding the right sides and beverages can take your Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime from a great dish to a full-on fiesta. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, here are some delicious pairing ideas:

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8 Recommendations

1. Tortilla Chips & Salsa

A crunchy, salty companion to your bowl—perfect for scooping up guac or adding texture to your meal.

2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime makes a fantastic side.

3. Cilantro Lime Rice

Add a bed of fluffy, zesty rice under your bowl components for extra heartiness.

4. Pickled Red Onions

A bright, tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of guacamole and crema.

5. Simple Side Salad

A crisp romaine or mixed greens salad with a lime vinaigrette complements the bold flavors of the burrito bowl.

6. Refried Beans

Creamy and comforting, refried beans offer another texture option and pair well with the seasoned chicken.

7. Grilled Vegetables

Charred bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms add smoky depth and additional veggies to the meal.

8. Fresh Margaritas or Agua Fresca

A refreshing drink rounds out the experience—opt for a classic margarita or a non-alcoholic fruit agua fresca.

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Storage Instructions

Proper storage will help you enjoy Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime for several days while keeping everything fresh:

• Chicken: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
• Black Beans & Corn: Keep in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently as needed.
• Guacamole: Best enjoyed fresh. If storing, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface and refrigerate for up to 1–2 days. Expect some browning, which can be stirred away.
• Lime Crema: Store in a covered container for up to 5 days. Give it a quick stir before using.
• Assembled Bowls: If you’ve already built your bowl, store it without guac and crema (add those fresh). The bowl can keep for about 3 days, but the textures are best when components are stored separately.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate nutrition breakdown for one serving of Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~500 kcal
• Protein: ~32g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fiber: ~10g
• Fat: ~28g
• Saturated Fat: ~7g
• Sugar: ~4g
• Sodium: ~700mg

Note: Nutrition will vary depending on portion sizes, specific ingredients used (such as full-fat vs. light sour cream), and optional additions like rice or extra toppings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.

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2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream for the lime crema, and ensure your taco seasoning doesn’t contain dairy.

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3. What is the best rice to serve with this burrito bowl?

Cilantro-lime rice or plain white rice works beautifully. For a healthier twist, try brown rice or cauliflower rice.

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4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep most components ahead—cook the chicken, prepare the beans and corn, and mix the crema. Guacamole is best made fresh, though you can store it for a short time as described earlier.

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5. How do I make this spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to the chicken while cooking, or stir some hot sauce into the lime crema.

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6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients in this bowl are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your taco seasoning and any additional sauces.

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7. Can I use store-bought guacamole?

Of course! While homemade guac is extra fresh, a good-quality store-bought guacamole works well for saving time.

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8. How do I meal prep these bowls?

Store each component separately in meal prep containers. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken and beans, then assemble your bowl with guacamole and crema added fresh.

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Conclusion

The Chicken Burrito Bowl with Guac & Lime is a vibrant, versatile dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and loaded with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re meal prepping for busy weekdays or hosting a casual dinner, this bowl delivers on taste and nutrition every time. Enjoy the fresh flavors and make it your own with your favorite add-ins!

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