Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl

This Mexican-inspired slow cooker chicken burrito bowl packs juicy shredded chicken, beans, corn, rice, and creamy avocado into every bite. I love how my house fills with savory aromas while everything comes together hands-free. The cilantro lime dressing ties it all together for an easy, meal-prep friendly dinner.

I first tried this to simplify busy weeknights and was hooked after seeing how much my kids dig digging into their own colorful bowls. Now I double the batch and freeze extras so lunch is handled too.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breast: Tender lean protein that shreds beautifully Use fresh or thawed for juicy results
• Chunky salsa: Lays the flavor foundation Choose one with lots of tomatoes and chiles for freshness
• Cilantro lime dressing: Lively and creamy Touch of tang Brightens all ingredients Use a quality bottled brand with simple ingredients
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and blends flavors Choose low sodium to control saltiness
• Chili powder: Warm spice that echoes classic burrito flavor Use fresh spice for best taste
• Cumin: Earthy and aromatic Look for a ground version with a bold smell
• Smoked paprika: Subtle smokiness Pick a Spanish smoked variety for richer flavor
• Cooked rice: Fulfills and soaks up sauce Use fluffy white long-grain or brown rice
• Frozen sweet corn: Sweet crisp pops Choose kernels that look plump and bright yellow
• Canned black beans: Protein-packed and sturdy Look for low sodium with a glossy black color
• Avocados: Creamy coolness Pick ripe but not mushy for best texture
• Fresh cilantro: Herbaceous lift Chop right before serving for maximum flavor
• Fresh lime: Adds acidity and zing Choose heavy limes for juiciness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare and Start Chicken:

Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker Arrange in an even layer Pour chunky salsa cilantro lime dressing and chicken broth over the top Sprinkle chili powder cumin and smoked paprika evenly across everything Setting layers like this ensures every bite gets flavor

Cook the Chicken:

Set slow cooker to high and cover Let cook for four hours Letting the chicken simmer slowly with the salsa and spices lets the meat stay tender and juicy

Shred and Finish the Chicken:

Once cooking time is up remove chicken and shred with two forks Gently pull meat apart so it absorbs more juices Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and let it sit in the warm sauce for ten more minutes Taste and adjust salt if needed

Prep Bowl Ingredients:

While chicken cooks make rice according to package directions If using frozen corn microwave until just hot and plump Heat black beans in the microwave or on the stovetop Chop fresh cilantro dice avocado and cut lime into wedges Prepping toppings in advance makes assembly easy once chicken is ready

Build Your Burrito Bowls:

Spoon rice into serving bowls Top with generous scoops of shredded chicken Add black beans corn avocado chunks Finish each bowl with a scatter of fresh cilantro and squeeze of lime Drizzle with more cilantro lime dressing right before serving A well layered bowl brings out all the flavors

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Every time I add the creamy avocado my toddler tries to sneak extra slices before we even sit down To me the combination of tangy cilantro lime dressing and hot fluffy rice is what makes this recipe truly craveworthy

Storage Tips

Leftover chicken burrito bowls can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days For best texture keep avocados lime and cilantro separate until serving so they stay fresh If meal prepping portion bowls ahead but add those fresh toppings morning of

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breast for even juicier meat Quinoa or cauliflower rice work great for a grain free twist If you are out of black beans pinto beans are a perfect swap Salsa verde can sub in for classic salsa to give a tangier edge

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Serving Suggestions

These bowls are a complete meal but a topping bar always gets smiles at my table Offer shredded cheese sour cream pico de gallo or a little hot sauce on the side For kids serve with tortilla chips for scooping Fun for a crowd with easy set up

Cultural Context

The layered burrito bowl serves all the flavors of a classic Mexican burrito in a lighter fresher way Burrito bowls became popular for being easy to customize and better for meal prep Slow cooker versions like this let you enjoy Tex Mex flavor with almost zero fuss

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, chicken thighs can be substituted for a juicier texture and richer flavor. Adjust cooking time if needed.

→ How spicy is the final dish?

The bowl is mildly spiced from salsa and seasonings, but heat can be increased by adding hot sauce or extra chili powder.

→ Is a specific type of rice recommended?

Long grain white rice works well, but brown rice or even cauliflower rice can be used according to preference.

→ Can this be prepared ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely. Portion ingredients into containers and add avocado and cilantro just before serving for freshness.

→ What are good topping options?

Try shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or extra cilantro lime dressing for added flavor and texture.