Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls served with toppings.

Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls โ€“ Easy Meal Prep Mexican Comfort

Some recipes feel like a warm hug after a long dayโ€”and these Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls are exactly that. I first made this dish on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty yet nourishing, with all the bold Mexican flavors I love. Imagine tender shredded chicken simmered in smoky spices, layered with rice, beans, and colorful toppingsโ€”all ready when you walk through the door. Itโ€™s a comforting, customizable meal that brings everyone to the table. Whether youโ€™re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this slow cooker recipe makes eating healthy and flavorful a joy.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls

Ingredients

  • 1 ยฝ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice (or brown rice)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 ยฝ cups chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ยฝ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional toppings: avocado, cheese, sour cream, salsa

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease your slow cooker with olive oil or nonstick spray.
  2. Add the chicken breasts, diced tomatoes (with juice), beans, corn, bell pepper, onion, and spices. Pour in the chicken broth.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 5โ€“6 hours or HIGH for 3โ€“4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
  4. Remove the chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
  5. Stir in the rice, ensuring itโ€™s fully submerged in liquid. Cover and cook on HIGH for 25โ€“30 minutes, until rice is tender.
  6. Stir in lime juice, adjust seasoning, and serve with your favorite toppings.

Tips for Success

  • Use long-grain riceโ€”short grains can become mushy.
  • Add rice later to avoid overcooking; it should simmer just before serving.
  • Meal prep friendly: Divide into bowls for easy lunches.
  • Customize it! Try quinoa instead of rice or use pinto beans instead of black beans.
  • For extra flavor, add a spoonful of chipotle in adobo sauce.

Why These Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls Are So Satisfying

The beauty of burrito bowls lies in their balanceโ€”protein, fiber, and vibrant colors all in one bowl. Cooking everything in a slow cooker allows the flavors to deepen while keeping prep effortless. The chicken becomes fall-apart tender, soaking in the smoky spices, while the beans and corn give body and sweetness. You can pile it high with avocado, cheese, and lime for that restaurant-style finishโ€”or keep it light with fresh salsa and a sprinkle of cilantro. These bowls are naturally gluten-free, high-protein, and ideal for busy weeknights.

Nutrition & Storage Table

AspectDetails
Calories (per serving)420 kcal
Protein34 g
Carbohydrates45 g
Fat10 g
StorageRefrigerate up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months
ReheatMicrowave or reheat on stovetop with a splash of broth

Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls for Meal Prep

If you love planning ahead, these bowls are your best friend. Each portion packs satisfying nutrients that keep you full for hours. Store them in airtight containers and top with fresh garnishes before eating. Theyโ€™re equally delicious warm or cold, making them perfect for office lunches or quick weeknight dinners.

Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls โ€“ Family-Style Dinner Idea

What I adore about this recipe is its flexibility. Lay out all the toppingsโ€”sliced avocado, shredded cheese, pico de gallo, jalapeรฑosโ€”and let everyone build their own burrito bowl. Itโ€™s fun, interactive, and guaranteed to please even picky eaters. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!

FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but add an extra hour of cook time on LOW and ensure it reaches 165ยฐF internally.

2. Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the chicken and add extra beans or tofu for a protein boost.

3. What rice works best?

Long-grain white or brown rice both workโ€”just adjust cooking time slightly for brown rice.

4. How can I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeรฑos or chipotle peppers in adobo for smoky heat.

If you try these Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls, leave me a comment below! Iโ€™d love to hear your favorite toppings and how you made them your own. Donโ€™t forget to share a photo on Pinterest or Instagram with the hashtag #ChefSofiaRecipes.

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Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls served with toppings.

Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls


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  • Author: Chef Sofia
  • Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Slow-cooked chicken with rice, beans, and vegetables for easy burrito bowls.


Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs chicken breasts

1 cup rice

1 can black beans

1 can corn

1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 bell pepper

1 onion

1.5 cups chicken broth

2 tsp chili powder

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

Salt, pepper

Juice of 1 lime

Cilantro, toppings


Instructions

1. Add chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, peppers, onion, and spices to slow cooker.

2. Pour in broth.

3. Cook on LOW 6 hrs or HIGH 3โ€“4 hrs.

4. Shred chicken.

5. Add rice, cook 25โ€“30 mins more.

6. Add lime juice, adjust seasoning, and serve.

Notes

Use long-grain rice to prevent mushiness.

Add chipotle for smoky flavor.

Freezes well for meal prep.

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 6 hrs
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Final Tip

For a low-carb version, swap rice with cauliflower rice or shredded lettuceโ€”still full of flavor and freshness, with fewer carbs!

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Author

  • women chef RvHYcIWuTeydmbRTRd9HOA 3wNG0kX RuKBJlY5L3dwcg -Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls โ€“ Easy Meal Prep Mexican Comfort

    Sofia Romano is a passionate recipe creator who blends wholesome Mediterranean flavors with modern wellness. She grew up surrounded by simple, nourishing ingredients and believes food should be both comforting and balanced. On EnzoRecipes, Sofia shares family-friendly meals, health-conscious twists, and inspiring stories from her kitchen โ€” all written with a warm, approachable touch.

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One Comment

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