Total Cooking Time: ~30 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
This High-Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl Skillet is the kind of meal that makes healthy eating feel genuinely satisfying. Juicy, well-seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, tender beans, and colorful veggies all come together in one pan, creating a dish that’s hearty, nourishing, and packed with bold flavor. The spices bloom as they hit the hot skillet, filling the kitchen with warm, smoky aromas, while fresh lime and herbs add a bright finish that keeps every bite balanced and crave-worthy.
What makes this recipe truly special is how it delivers comfort food vibes without feeling heavy. It’s high in protein, loaded with fiber, and endlessly customizable—perfect for busy weeknights, post-workout dinners, or meal prep lunches that actually keep you full. Everything cooks together in one skillet, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy a wholesome meal that feels just as good as it tastes.
Estimated Calories: ~480 calories per serving
Protein: ~38–42g per serving (approximate)
🫘 Key Ingredients
These ingredients work together to build flavor, texture, and balanced nutrition:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast – Lean, high-protein base that cooks quickly
- Olive oil – Helps sear the chicken and develop flavor
- Salt – Enhances all the spices and ingredients
- Black pepper – Adds subtle warmth
- Chili powder – Brings classic burrito bowl flavor
- Ground cumin – Adds earthy depth
- Smoked paprika – Provides smoky richness
- Garlic (minced) – Savory aromatic backbone
- Yellow onion – Adds sweetness and body
- Bell peppers – Bring color, crunch, and freshness
- Long-grain white or brown rice – Creates a hearty, comforting base
- Chicken broth – Adds flavor while cooking the rice
- Black beans – Boost protein and fiber
- Corn kernels – Add sweetness and texture
- Lime juice – Brightens and balances the dish
- Fresh cilantro – Fresh, herbal finish
- Avocado (optional) – Adds creaminess and healthy fats
🍳 How to Make It (Step-by-Step Method)
- Season the Chicken
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika until evenly coated. - Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside. - Build the Base
In the same skillet, add onion and bell peppers. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly golden. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. - Cook the Rice
Add rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil and spices. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes (or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed). - Add the Protein Boost
Stir in black beans and corn, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Cover and cook for 3–4 minutes until everything is heated through. - Finish with Freshness
Remove from heat. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the skillet and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Burrito Bowl Skillet is perfect for flexible, build-your-own meals. For a classic bowl-style presentation, scoop the skillet mixture into wide bowls and top with sliced avocado, a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream, and extra cilantro. A sprinkle of shredded cheese or a drizzle of hot sauce adds indulgence without overpowering the balanced flavors. This setup is ideal for quick dinners that still feel thoughtful and complete.
For meal prep or lunches, portion the burrito bowl into airtight containers and add fresh toppings separately to keep everything vibrant. You can also serve the mixture in lettuce cups for a lighter option, or wrap it in warm tortillas for protein-packed burritos. Hosting friends? Set out toppings like pico de gallo, jalapeños, salsa verde, and lime wedges so everyone can customize their bowl. No matter how you serve it, this dish adapts effortlessly to different needs while staying comforting and nourishing.
🧊 Storage + Meal Prep
This skillet meal is excellent for leftovers and meal prep. Allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight containers. Kept in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it ideal for weekday lunches or grab-and-go dinners. The flavors continue to develop over time, so it often tastes even better the next day.
To reheat, warm portions in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. For freezing, portion the burrito bowl into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add fresh lime juice, cilantro, or avocado after reheating to restore brightness and texture. Keeping toppings fresh ensures each reheated bowl still feels satisfying and balanced.
Conclusion
This High-Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl Skillet proves that healthy meals don’t have to feel boring or restrictive. It’s bold, filling, and comforting—exactly what you want when time is short but nourishment still matters.
Once you make this recipe, it’s easy to see why it becomes a repeat favorite. It’s flexible, forgiving, and endlessly customizable to fit your taste or nutrition goals. If you try it, share how you built your bowl and what toppings you loved most—those personal touches are what make simple recipes truly special.
