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Healthy High Protein Chicken Burrito Bowls with Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice

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A quick, wholesome, and flavorful chicken burrito bowl featuring zesty cilantro lime brown rice, seasoned chicken, sautéed veggies, black beans, and avocado. Perfect for a healthy, protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and great for meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast (organic or free-range recommended)
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain brown rice
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (loosely packed)
  • Juice and zest of 2 medium limes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed if canned
  • 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional)
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced or cubed

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup of brown rice under cold water until water runs clear. Combine with 2 cups water and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes until tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
  2. While the rice cooks, pat dry the chicken breasts and season both sides with 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and browned. Rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
  4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add diced red bell pepper, corn, and minced garlic. Cook for 4-5 minutes until veggies are tender but still crisp. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork in a large mixing bowl. Add lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. Toss gently to combine. Adjust lime or salt to taste.
  6. Divide cilantro lime rice evenly between 4 bowls. Top each with sliced chicken, sautéed veggies, black beans (about 1/4 cup per bowl), and avocado slices.
  7. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream if desired. Sprinkle with extra cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lime. Serve immediately.

Notes

[‘Soaking brown rice for 20 minutes before cooking can speed up cooking time and improve texture.’, ‘Resting the chicken after cooking keeps it juicy and easier to slice.’, ‘Use fresh lime zest for more vibrant flavor than bottled juice alone.’, ‘Avoid overcooking chicken by using medium-high heat and careful timing.’, ‘Keep ingredients separate until serving to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.’, ‘For smoky depth, finish chicken under a broiler for 1-2 minutes after pan-searing.’, ‘Swap brown rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for low-carb options.’, ‘Use coconut yogurt or skip yogurt for a dairy-free version.’, ‘Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts; adjust cooking time accordingly.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken burrito bowl, high protein, healthy dinner, cilantro lime rice, easy meal prep, gluten-free, zesty rice, quick chicken recipe

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