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

Smoked Chicken Breast Burrito Bowl 9 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.

(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

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

Step 3: Make the Dressing

  1. 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

  1. Add the sliced smoked chicken on top of the burrito bowl base.
  2. 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.
Smoked Chicken Breast Burrito Bowl

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!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Smoked Chicken Breast Burrito Bowl

Smoked Chicken Breast Burrito Bowl

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Meal Prep
  • Method: Smoked
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Smoked Chicken Breast Burrito Bowl is packed with juicy, smoky chicken, fresh toppings, and flavorful rice. It’s an easy, meal-prep-friendly dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Whether you use a Traeger, pellet grill, or traditional smoker, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort!


Ingredients

For the Smoked Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional, for heat)

  • Juice of 1 lime

For the Burrito Bowl:

 

  • 2 cups cooked cilantro lime rice (see notes)

  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 cup corn (grilled or canned)

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced

  • 1 avocado, sliced

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or cotija)

  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • Salsa or pico de gallo (for topping)

  • Lime wedges (for serving)


Instructions

Smoke the Chicken:

  1. Preheat smoker to 225°F using hickory, mesquite, or applewood pellets.

  2. Prepare the chicken – Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, onion powder, and cayenne. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top.

  3. Smoke the chicken – Place the chicken directly on the smoker grates. Smoke for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

  4. Rest & slice – Remove from the smoker, let it rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice into strips.

2. Assemble the Burrito Bowl:

 

  1. Divide the cilantro lime rice into bowls.

  2. Add smoked chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and red onion.

  3. Top with avocado slices, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro.

  4. Drizzle with sour cream and salsa, then serve with lime wedges


Notes

  • Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe: Mix 2 cups cooked rice with 1 tablespoon lime juice, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ cup chopped cilantro.

  • For extra smoky flavor, let the chicken rest in the fridge for 2 hours before smoking.

  • Meal prep: Store all ingredients separately in airtight containers for easy lunches.

 

  • Variations: Swap chicken for smoked steak, shrimp, or tofu.

Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe!

If you love this recipe, please consider giving it a star rating when you leave a comment. Star ratings help people discover my recipes online. Your support means a lot to me, I appreciate you.

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *