There’s something truly magical about the aroma of a Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl wafting through your home. The warmth that fills the air as it simmers softly in your kitchen beckons you, ushering in thoughts of cozy evenings spent with loved ones. Juicy, seasoned chicken melting into fluffy rice, all mingled with zesty salsa, just feels like a hug in a bowl. As you take that first bite, a sense of comfort envelops you, making it clear why this dish has become a cherished staple in homes across the country.
Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A comforting and flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl with tender chicken, fluffy rice, zesty salsa, and fresh toppings.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- Cilantro lime vinaigrette, for drizzling
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the salsa over the chicken, coating each piece.
- Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
- About an hour before serving, add the rice to the slow cooker.
- Once cooked, gently shred the chicken in the slow cooker and stir everything together.
- Serve the mixture in bowls, topping with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, cheese, and black beans.
- Drizzle with cilantro lime vinaigrette before serving.
Notes
Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Let’s Make It Together
Creating a Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl is a breeze, allowing you to savor the moments instead of standing over the stove. Just layer your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let the flavors dance together while you get on with your day. It really is that simple and rewarding!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- Cilantro lime vinaigrette, for drizzling
Step-by-Step Directions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the salsa lovingly over the chicken, allowing it to coat each piece.
- Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This is where the magic happens; cook until the chicken is fork-tender, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
- About an hour before serving, add the rice to the slow cooker, watching it absorb all those beautiful flavors.
- Once cooked, gently shred the chicken right in the slow cooker and stir everything together, letting the joy of a harmonious meal wash over you.
- Serve the mixture in bowls, generously topping each bowl with slices of creamy avocado, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a handful of cheese, and a scoop of black beans.
- Finally, drizzle with cilantro lime vinaigrette before indulging in this delightful dish.
Nutritional Snapshot
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 40g
- Carbs: 55g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 12g
Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe keeps you full without feeling heavy, making it perfect for those busy nights when comfort food is a must.
Moments Made for This Dish
Imagine gathering around the table with your family after a hectic day, the sun setting in a golden glow. This Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl is perfect for family dinners, where everyone can customize their bowls with their favorite toppings. Pair it with a simple green salad and a refreshing pitcher of lemonade, or even a glass of chilled white wine for a delightful evening.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze your burrito bowl mixture in portions for up to three months. When you’re ready to revisit this cozy dish, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
Betty’s Secrets
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to your chicken for an extra depth of flavor.
- Use a mixture of brown rice and white rice for a heartier texture and additional nutrition.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for a burst of zesty freshness with each bite.
Creative Twists
- For a fall twist, incorporate sweet potatoes or corn, which meld beautifully with the other flavors.
- In summer, add chopped bell peppers for crunch and color, bringing a festive vibe to your dish.
Your Questions Answered
What can I use instead of chicken in my Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl? You can substitute chicken with turkey or even black beans for a delicious vegetarian option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate it, then cook it the next day for a quick meal.
What toppings go well with this burrito bowl? Toppings like sour cream, pickled jalapeños, or salsa fresca elevate the dish nicely, adding layers of flavor.
Is this recipe good for meal prepping? Absolutely! This Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl is perfect for meal prep and keeps well, making it an excellent choice for quick lunches throughout the week.
