Name: Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowls with Lime Rice and Black Beans Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken thighs (skin-on, boneless or skinless all work); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime); 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar (or regular white vinegar); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder (or regular chili powder); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce; 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 15-ounce can whole kernel corn, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cooked cilantro lime rice (or plain white or brown rice); 1 cup chopped tomatoes; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup guacamole; Optional toppings: lime juice, jalapenos, hot sauce or salsa

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 15 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant, nourishing meal that’s as satisfying as it is colorful, then this Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowls with Lime Rice and Black Beans Recipe is just what you need. It brings together perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken thighs with zesty lime rice, hearty black beans, fresh veggies, and creamy toppings, creating a deliciously balanced bowl that feels like a fiesta in every bite. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick dinner, this recipe delivers comfort and nutrition without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a cooked chicken piece on a wooden board with one large piece and the front piece sliced into five thick layers. The chicken skin is golden brown and crispy with dark grill marks and some blackened spots. The inside meat is light and juicy. Part of a large knife with a white handle is visible on the right side. The surface under the board is a white marble texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet every ingredient plays a crucial role in building unforgettable flavors and textures. From the tangy lime juice that brightens the rice to the smoky spices that elevate the chicken, each component brings something special to the table.

Chicken thighs: Use boneless and skinless or skin-on depending on your preference for juiciness and flavor.
Olive oil: Helps tenderize the chicken and assists in browning it to a perfect crust.
Lime juice: Adds a fresh, citrusy zing that livens up the marinade and rice.
White wine vinegar: Provides a subtle acidity to balance the spices in the chicken.
Chili powder and ancho chili powder: Offer smoky, mild heat that’s essential for authentic taco-inspired taste.
Onion and garlic powder: Build a savory backbone for the chicken marinade.
Ground cumin and smoked paprika: Introduce warm earthiness and a touch of smokiness.
Black pepper and salt: Basic seasonings that amplify all other flavors perfectly.
Romaine lettuce: Provides crisp, refreshing contrast in the bowl.
Black beans: Protein- and fiber-packed, contributing heartiness and texture.
Corn kernels: Add natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Cilantro lime rice: A zesty, herbaceous rice base that complements the chicken beautifully.
Chopped tomatoes: Fresh bursts of juiciness for balance.
Plain Greek yogurt: A creamy, tangy topping that lightens the dish and adds protein.
Guacamole: Provides luscious creaminess and healthy fats.
Optional toppings: Lime wedges, jalapenos, hot sauce, or salsa to customize heat and brightness.

How to Make Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowls with Lime Rice and Black Beans Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing together olive oil, lime juice, white wine vinegar, chili powders, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and black pepper in a large bowl or sealable bag. Toss in the chicken thighs and ensure every piece is generously coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential as it infuses the chicken with layers of tangy, smoky, and savory flavors that will carry through the entire dish.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until the chicken is fully cooked and has developed a beautiful, slightly charred crust. Discard any leftover marinade. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting keeps the juices locked in for a tender, juicy bite every time. Slice the chicken into strips or chunks—whatever feels right for your bowl.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice and Vegetables

While the chicken marinates, cook your cilantro lime rice or prepare your preferred rice. Rinse and drain canned black beans and corn to ensure they are fresh and ready to add. Chop the romaine lettuce and tomatoes. These fresh ingredients bring brightness and crunch that perfectly complement the warm, tender chicken and rice components.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls

Divide the chopped lettuce, black beans, corn, cilantro lime rice, and tomatoes evenly into four bowls. Top each bowl with the sliced chicken, a generous dollop of plain Greek yogurt, and creamy guacamole. To add a final punch of flavor, serve with lime wedges, jalapenos, hot sauce, or salsa on the side. This assembly encourages everyone to customize their bowl exactly how they like, which makes mealtime more fun and interactive.

How to Serve Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowls with Lime Rice and Black Beans Recipe

The dish features a white bowl filled with several colorful layers arranged closely. At the top right is a mound of bright yellow corn kernels, next to a scoop of light green guacamole with a chunky texture. Below the guacamole is a pile of shiny black beans topped with a dollop of smooth white sour cream. To the right of the beans are two slices of fresh green jalapeño with visible seeds. Below the beans and jalapeños is a portion of white rice with green herbs mixed in, showing a fluffy texture. Two thin, fresh lime slices with a bright green color rest near the rice at the bottom left of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The little extras can elevate these bowls from great to unforgettable. I love adding freshly chopped cilantro for herby brightness, extra lime wedges to squeeze on for zing, and pickled jalapenos if you enjoy heat. A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of cotija cheese can also take the flavor profile up a notch, adding richness and complexity.

Side Dishes

This bowl is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round out your spread for guests or a special occasion, consider serving with a simple side salad or some crisp baked tortilla chips. A light Mexican street corn salad or roasted veggies seasoned with chili powder and lime can also complement the bowls beautifully without overpowering the fresh flavors already in play.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner, serve the bowls family-style and let everyone build their own. For a party or meal prep, pack the components separately in glass containers and assemble at mealtime to keep things fresh. You can also use vibrant bowls or reusable mason jars to showcase the layers and colors—perfect for grabbing attention on social media or pleasing picky eaters with visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken, rice, and beans keep wonderfully for up to 3 days when stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep wet ingredients like guacamole and yogurt separate until serving to prevent sogginess. This makes for a quick yet wholesome lunch or dinner when time is tight.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and the bean and corn mixture separately for up to 2 months. Be mindful that fresh lettuce and toppings like yogurt and guacamole do not freeze well, so these should be added fresh. Freezing helps you enjoy the deliciousness of this Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowls with Lime Rice and Black Beans Recipe anytime without sacrificing quality.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and rice gently in a skillet or microwave until warm throughout. Stir occasionally to keep the chicken from drying out. Then add fresh vegetables and toppings after reheating for the best texture and flavor, making each bowl taste like it was freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine though they can be leaner and cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out. Marinating well and not overcooking will help retain flavor and juiciness.

Is it okay to use canned black beans and corn?

Yes, canned beans and corn are perfect for this recipe. Just be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium and any canned taste. They save time and add that easy convenience we’re all loving.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Swap out chicken for sautéed veggies, tofu, or your favorite meat alternative. Make sure to keep the zesty lime rice and black beans for that authentic flavor and great texture balance in your bowl.

Can I prepare these burrito bowls ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is fantastic for meal prep. Cook and assemble the bowls but hold off on adding lettuce, yogurt, and guacamole until just before eating to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

What type of rice works best for the lime rice?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice are excellent choices because they stay fluffy and absorb the lime flavor well. Brown rice is a hearty, nutritious alternative if you prefer a nuttier texture and extra fiber.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowls with Lime Rice and Black Beans Recipe is one of those dishes that hits all the right notes: fresh, filling, and packed with layers of vibrant flavors. It’s a fantastic way to add colorful nutrition to your weeknights without complicated steps or exotic ingredients. Give it a whirl—you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again because it just works every single time!

Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowls with Lime Rice and Black Beans Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need