Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl

If your family is anything like mine, Chipotle night is basically a standing tradition. But here’s the secret: you can make that famous, juicy, flavor-packed chicken right at home, and it’s actually so easy.

This copycat Chipotle chicken comes together with a quick blender marinade, a hot skillet (or grill, or air fryer!), and about 15 minutes of hands-on time. Add some fluffy cilantro lime rice, beans, and all your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a meal that’s every bit as satisfying as the restaurant version, but healthier and way more affordable.

They’re customizable, too! Kids love building their own with just what they like, and you can make everything ahead of time for meal prep lunches that never get boring. It’s fresh, it’s hearty, and it seriously tastes like the real deal (maybe even better).

Before You Get Started

A few simple tips will set you up for burrito bowl success.

• Let the chicken marinate. At least 15 minutes works, but an hour or overnight is even better for flavor and tenderness.
• Chicken thighs vs. breasts: Thighs stay juicier and more “Chipotle-like,” but breasts work great too. Pound them to even thickness for the best results.
• Don’t skip the rest time. Let the cooked chicken rest before slicing to keep it extra juicy.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep the chicken and rice ahead, then assemble bowls fresh all week.

How to Make Copycat Chipotle Chicken

Here’s how to get that perfectly juicy, flavorful chicken just like your favorite burrito bowl spot.

1. Blend the Marinade

Add sweet onion, cilantro, garlic, adobo sauce, olive oil, lime juice, ancho chile powder, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and water (or broth) to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Pour the marinade over your chicken thighs or breasts in a bowl or Ziploc bag. Toss to coat well. Marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes (up to overnight).

3. Cook the Chicken

Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron is perfect) over medium-high. Spray with oil or drizzle a little more olive oil. Cook chicken 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temp 165°F). You can also grill or air fry at 400°F for 6-7 minutes per side.

4. Rest and Slice

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice or chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Pro tip: Double the chicken and freeze half for super-fast future burrito bowls or tacos!

How to Make Burrito Bowls (Just Like Chipotle!)

Now for the fun part: putting everything together!

1. Make Cilantro Lime Rice

Toss cooked rice with half the chopped cilantro and half the lime juice. Season with salt, pepper, and a little oil if you like.

2. Make the Corn Salsa

Mix corn, diced red onion, remaining cilantro, remaining lime juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Build the Bowls

Layer your bowl with cilantro lime rice, corn salsa, black beans, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, and cheese.

4. Add Chicken and Toppings

Top with the sliced chipotle chicken, then go wild with extras, like green salsa or red salsa, sour cream, avocado, guacamole, pico de gallo, fajita veggies, or hot sauce.

Pro tip: Warm your bowls and tortillas before assembling to keep everything cozy and melty.

Recipe Tips, Swaps & Variations

Let’s make this recipe work for everyone at the table.

• Low-carb: Swap in cauliflower rice and go heavy on the lettuce and veggies.
• Dairy-free: Skip the cheese and sour cream, or use your favorite dairy-free alternatives.
• Make-ahead: Prep chicken, rice, and salsa up to 3 days ahead. Just assemble when you’re ready to eat.
• Kid-friendly: Let little ones build their own bowls! They’ll love it (and maybe even sneak in a few veggies).

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

These bowls are made for meal prep (and leftovers are just as tasty).

• Meal prep: Store chicken, rice, beans, and toppings in separate containers for 3-4 days. Assemble bowls as needed.
• Freeze chicken: The cooked chicken freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat.
• Leftover ideas: Stuff leftovers in burritos or quesadillas, or use them to top salads for a whole new meal.