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:
- Blend the marinade:
Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth. - Marinate the chicken:
Coat the chicken in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. 💡Tip: Marinade overnight for best results. - 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:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Adjust to taste (more lime, vinegar, or salt as needed).
- 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.