Smoked Chicken Breast Burrito Bowl

A Smoked Chicken Breast Burrito Bowl is a flavorful and healthy meal packed with smoky, juicy chicken, fresh toppings, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner, this bowl delivers bold Tex-Mex flavors with a delicious smoky twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor – The smoked chicken adds a deep, smoky taste that elevates every bite.
• Customizable – Choose your favorite toppings, grains, and dressings.
• Healthy and Nutritious – A balanced mix of protein, fiber, and fresh ingredients.
• Great for Meal Prep – Store ingredients separately and assemble fresh when needed.
• Easy to Make – The Traeger (or any smoker) does most of the work for you!

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Smoked Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Chili powder
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cumin
• Salt and pepper
• Lime juice

For the Burrito Bowl Base:

• Cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice)
• Black beans (drained and rinsed)
• Corn (grilled or canned)
• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Avocado (sliced or diced)
• Red onion (chopped)
• Shredded lettuce or cabbage
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or cotija)

For the Dressing:

• Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Lime juice
• Hot sauce (optional)
• Cilantro (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper

Directions

Step 1: Smoke the Chicken

1. Preheat the Smoker – Set your smoker to 225°F and use hickory, mesquite, or applewood pellets.
2. Season the Chicken – Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and coat evenly with chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Smoke the Chicken – Place the chicken on the smoker and cook for 60-75 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Rest and Slice – Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice or shred.

Step 2: Prepare the Burrito Bowl Base

5. Cook the rice according to package instructions. For extra flavor, mix with lime juice and chopped cilantro.
6. In a bowl, layer rice, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, lettuce, and cheese.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

7. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, hot sauce, chopped cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

8. Add the sliced smoked chicken on top of the burrito bowl base.
9. Drizzle with the lime-cilantro dressing and serve immediately!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add jalapeños, chipotle powder, or extra hot sauce.
• Low-Carb Option – Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
• Vegan Version – Swap chicken for smoked tofu or grilled mushrooms.
• Extra Protein – Add a fried egg or extra beans for a protein boost.
• Different Dressing – Try avocado crema or a chipotle-lime dressing for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store ingredients separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: The smoked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave, then assemble fresh.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! If using rotisserie or grilled chicken, add a bit of smoked paprika for extra flavor.

What’s the best rice for burrito bowls?

Cilantro-lime rice, brown rice, or even quinoa works great.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cook the chicken to 165°F and let it rest before slicing to retain juices.

Can I grill the chicken instead of smoking it?

Yes! Grill over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side.

How do I make the sauce thinner?

Add a splash of milk or lime juice to thin out the dressing.

What toppings go well with this bowl?

Pico de gallo, guacamole, salsa, or crispy tortilla strips all make great additions.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure all ingredients (especially seasonings) are gluten-free.

Can I make this bowl dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free yogurt or dressing alternative.

What other proteins can I use?

Try shrimp, steak, or carnitas for a different take on the bowl.

How do I add more smoke flavor?

Let the chicken sit in the smoker longer at a lower temp (200°F for 90 minutes) for deeper smoke infusion.

Conclusion

A Smoked Chicken Breast Burrito Bowl is the perfect balance of smoky, zesty, and fresh flavors in one satisfying dish. Whether you’re making it for meal prep or serving it at a family dinner, this protein-packed bowl is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, homemade burrito bowl with a smoky twist!

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