Craving a vibrant and satisfying meal that bursts with flavor? Look no further than these Chicken Burrito Bowls with Black Beans and Kale! This quick and easy recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a deliciously wholesome option that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied. With just 40 minutes of your time, you can whip up a colorful bowl filled with tender shredded chicken, nutrient-rich kale, and hearty black beans, all drizzled with zesty lime juice. Perfect for meal prep or a family dinner, these burrito bowls are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Ready to dive into a world of flavor? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh lime for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by seasoning with cumin, salt, and pepper. If not already cooked, grill or bake chicken breasts until internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 15-20 minutes). Once cooled, shred the chicken using two forks.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped kale and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes slightly wilted and bright green. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In a separate saucepan, warm the drained and rinsed black beans. Add a dash of cumin for extra flavor if desired.
- If using rice or quinoa, ensure it is freshly cooked and still warm. Fluff with a fork to separate grains.
- Assemble the burrito bowls by layering ingredients: start with a base of rice or quinoa, then add shredded chicken, sautéed kale, and warm black beans.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top of each bowl for brightness and added flavor.
- Serve immediately while ingredients are still warm. Optional: Add additional toppings like salsa, sour cream, or avocado if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: For the juiciest chicken, marinate your chicken breasts in olive oil and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the meat tender.
- Kale Prep: To make the kale more palatable, massage it with a little olive oil and salt before sautéing. This will soften the leaves and make them more enjoyable to eat.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to add extra spices to the black beans while warming them up. A pinch of chili powder or garlic powder can elevate the flavor profile even further.
- Rice or Quinoa: If you want to save time, consider using pre-cooked rice or quinoa packets. They can be a lifesaver on busy nights and still provide a wholesome base for your bowls.
- Assembly Line: Set up an assembly line for your burrito bowls. Lay out all your ingredients so everyone can customize their bowl with their favorite toppings, whether it’s salsa, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Meal Prep: These bowls are perfect for meal prep! Prepare a batch and store them in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!
- Fresh Lime: Always squeeze fresh lime juice over the assembled bowls just before serving. It adds a refreshing zing that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
