Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls โ Easy Meal Prep Mexican Comfort
Some recipes feel like a warm hug after a long dayโand 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 toppingsโall ready when you walk through the door. Itโs a comforting, customizable meal that brings everyone to the table. Whether youโre 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
- Lightly grease your slow cooker with olive oil or nonstick spray.
- Add the chicken breasts, diced tomatoes (with juice), beans, corn, bell pepper, onion, and spices. Pour in the chicken broth.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5โ6 hours or HIGH for 3โ4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
- Stir in the rice, ensuring itโs fully submerged in liquid. Cover and cook on HIGH for 25โ30 minutes, until rice is tender.
- Stir in lime juice, adjust seasoning, and serve with your favorite toppings.
Tips for Success
- Use long-grain riceโshort 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 balanceโprotein, 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 finishโor 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
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Calories (per serving) | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 34 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Storage | Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months |
| Reheat | Microwave 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. Theyโre 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 toppingsโsliced avocado, shredded cheese, pico de gallo, jalapeรฑosโand let everyone build their own burrito bowl. Itโs 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 workโjust 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! Iโd love to hear your favorite toppings and how you made them your own. Donโt forget to share a photo on Pinterest or Instagram with the hashtag #ChefSofiaRecipes.
Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Slow-cooked chicken with rice, beans, and vegetables for easy burrito bowls.
Ingredients
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 3โ4 hrs.
4. Shred chicken.
5. Add rice, cook 25โ30 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 lettuceโstill full of flavor and freshness, with fewer carbs!
Printable Recipe Card
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