Most people will not have tried Quinoa but I dreaded it but now it is a healthy substitute that absorbs flavours like a sponge. Squeeze a little lemon into the water for even more taste. Chicken Quinoa Burrito Bowl is a tasty Mexican main dish using lettuce, avocado, salsa, beans and cheese on a bed of quinoa. It is full of body and flavour and ideal when you want to try something new.
At the heart of the Chicken Quinoa Burrito Bowl is tender grilled chicken, brushed with a smoky chipotle glaze made from finely chopped chipotle chili peppers in adobo, olive oil, cumin, and garlic powder. This bold combination infuses the chicken with a warm, earthy heat and just the right touch of smokiness. Grilled until juicy and slightly charred, then chopped into bite-sized pieces, the chicken forms the protein-packed centrepiece of the dish.
A generous scoop of fluffy quinoa brings a nutty, wholesome base, standing in beautifully for rice. It’s light, satisfying, and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal foundation for this modern burrito-inspired bowl. Around it, a vibrant mix of fresh romaine lettuce, creamy avocado chunks, and soft pinto beans adds both substance and freshness. The creamy avocado contrasts deliciously with the bite of the greens and the earthiness of the beans.
A spoonful of zesty pico de gallo (or your favourite salsa) livens things up with a splash of acidity and a fresh tomato kick, while a sprinkle of grated Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese provides a rich, melty finish. A final squeeze of lime over the top ties it all together with a bright, citrusy zing.
A Chicken and Quinoa Burrito Bowl is a bowlful of balance—perfect for lunch, dinner or even meal prep. It’s nutritious without being dull, indulgent without being heavy, and endlessly customisable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re after bold Tex-Mex flavours or just something fresh and satisfying, this bowl is a delicious step in the right direction.
Chicken Quinoa Burrito Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp chipotle chili peppers in adobe, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Extra Virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 lb Chicken Breasts boneless/skinless
- 2 cups quinoa cooked
- 2 cups romaine lettuce shredded
- 1 cup pinto beans can/rinsed
- 1 large avocado ripe/diced
- 1/4 cup pico de gallo or another salsa
- 1/4 cup cheddar cheese Monterey / grated
- Lime wedges
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high or preheat broiler.
- Combine chipotles, oil, garlic powder and cumin in a small bowl.1 tbsp chipotle chili peppers, 1 tbsp Extra Virgin olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Oil the grill rack. Season chicken with salt. Grill the chicken for 5 minutes.1 lb Chicken Breasts, 1/4 tsp salt
- Turn, brush with the chipotle glaze and continue cooking until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part registers 165°F, 3 to 5 minutes more on the grill.
- Transfer to a clean cutting board. Chop into bite-size pieces.
- Assemble each burrito bowl with 1/2 cup quinoa, 1/2 cup chicken, 1/2 cup lettuce, 1/4 cup beans, 1/4 avocado, 1 tablespoon pico de gallo (or other salsa) and 1 tablespoon cheese. Serve with a lime wedge.2 cups quinoa, 2 cups romaine lettuce, 1 cup pinto beans, 1 large avocado, 1/4 cup pico de gallo, 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, Lime
- To oil a grill rack, oil a folded paper towel, hold it with tongs and rub it over the rack. (Do not use cooking spray on a hot grill.)
13 comments
Light, filling, and packed with goodness — perfect for a quick, healthy lunch or dinner.
resh, vibrant, and full of bold flavours.
It’s hearty without feeling heavy, and so easy to customise.
Every ingredient works together beautifully.
A brilliant alternative to a traditional burrito.
I loved how the creamy avocado balanced the smoky heat from the chipotle glaze — perfection in a bowl.
The chipotle chicken is the star of the show — juicy, smoky, and packed with flavour.
Healthy food that actually tastes amazing! The mix of textures kept every bite interesting.
Super easy to put together and full of fresh, clean flavours.
The combination of tender chicken and fluffy quinoa is so satisfying.
Definitely going to be a regular dish.
I could eat this every day.
The smoky chipotle chicken and fresh toppings make every bite a burst of flavour.