Better Than Takeout? Homemade Burrito Bowls

By: Matt Saemrow

Craving Chipotle but don’t want to leave the house? This easy homemade Chipotle Chicken Bowl has you covered — with smoky, marinated chicken, fresh corn salsa, and all your favorite toppings. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner that hits the spot. Prepared as listed, this recipe should yield 6-8 servings. These burrito bowls will quickly become a household favorite.

🔥 Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 3–4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 2 tbsp adobo sauce (from the can)
  • 2 tbsp ancho chili powder
  • 2 garlic cloves (or 2 tsp of minced garlic)
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup avocado oil
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Blend the marinade:
    Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth.
  2. Marinate the chicken:
    Coat the chicken in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. 💡Tip: Marinade overnight for best results.
  3. Cook:
    Cook (griddle or stove top work best) over medium-high heat for 4–6 minutes per side, making sure the chicken is fully cooked. Rest, then chop into bite-sized pieces. 💡Tip: Cut chicken into bite size pieces prior to marinading to maximize flavor

🌽 Corn Salsa

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups raw corn (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 1 cup finely chopped red onion
  • ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • ¼ cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Optional: diced jalapeño for heat

Instructions:

  1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
  2. Adjust to taste (more lime, vinegar, or salt as needed).
  3. Let sit 20 minutes for best flavor. Keeps in the fridge for 3–4 days.

🥗 Bowl Assembly

Layer the chopped chipotle chicken over a base of rice (Uncle Ben’s Ready Rice is a quick and easy option) or shredded lettuce, then add:

  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
  • Corn salsa
  • Fajita veggies (sautéed peppers + onions)
  • Pico de gallo
  • Shredded cheese
  • Avocado or guacamole

💡 Tips

  • Adjust number of chipotle peppers for more or less spice
  • Char the corn for a roasted twist on the salsa.
  • Great for leftovers — store each component separately.