Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl

Nothing beats coming home to a bowl loaded with tender slow-cooked chicken, fluffy rice, sweet corn, creamy avocado, and all the bright flavors of a classic burrito—drizzled with sharp cilantro-lime dressing. This chicken burrito bowl recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, and for years it has saved my busiest weeknights thanks to a hands-off slow cooker approach and simple meal prep.

I remember the first time I served this for friends after a long day my house smelled incredible all evening and everyone went back for seconds before I could blink.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breast: This cut stays tender and shreds easily after slow cooking choose plump fillets without too much fat
• Chunky salsa: Gives deep tomato and pepper flavor opt for a quality jar with nothing too watery
• Cilantro lime dressing: Brightens the dish with fresh tang try to find a variety with real herbs and lime juice BRIANNAS is my favorite
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and layers of comforting flavor use a low-sodium version for better control over seasoning
• Chili powder: Brings a hint of heat for that authentic Mexican taste check dates for freshness
• Cumin: Adds subtle earthiness fresh ground if possible
• Smoked paprika: Gives gentle smoke and color Spanish smoked paprika is best
• Cooked rice: Fluffy rice soaks up all the flavors use jasmine or basmati for best texture
• Frozen sweet corn: Pops of sweet crunch pick corn with no added sugar
• Canned black beans: Fiber and protein use a low-sodium version and rinse well for best flavor
• Avocados: Creamy richness choose dark green avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure
• Chopped cilantro: Fresh herby lift always use bright green leaves with no yellowing
• Fresh lime: Adds a zesty finish always choose limes with glossy skin and a little give when squeezed

How to Make It

Prepare the Chicken and Sauce:

Place chicken breasts in your slow cooker nestled side by side and cover with chunky salsa cilantro lime dressing chicken broth chili powder cumin and smoked paprika Be sure the pieces are coated well so every bite is flavorful

Slow Cook the Chicken:

Set slow cooker to high and let cook for four hours The chicken should be cooked through and incredibly tender by the end a fork should glide right through it

Shred and Rest the Chicken:

Using two forks shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker Mixing everything together ensures the meat stays juicy Let the mixture sit uncovered for another ten minutes so flavors meld Taste and adjust salt if needed

Prep Rice and Toppings:

While the chicken finishes chop cilantro dice avocados cut limes into wedges and prepare the rice Heat corn and black beans until warm I recommend rinsing beans for a cleaner taste

Assemble the Bowls:

In each bowl start with a bed of rice then layer on shredded chicken corn black beans and diced avocado Top with fresh cilantro a squeeze of lime and a generous drizzle of cilantro lime dressing for big bright flavor

Serve:

Bring everything to the table and let everyone build their perfect bowl I love how easy it is for each person to make their own version

One of my favorite parts has always been the punchy cilantro lime dressing I try never to skimp on it because it ties the whole bowl together My family knows that dinner time is not negotiable when this is bubbling away

Flavor Boosters

Keep leftovers in airtight containers rice toppings and chicken all separate if you want them to stay fresher longer The burrito chicken lasts for up to four days refrigerated If you want to freeze just portion out the chicken mixture into zip bags and thaw as needed

Serving Suggestions

This can be eaten warm or cold Assemble everything over a chopped salad for a lighter lunch Add extra toppings like pickled jalapenos cotija cheese or sliced radishes Serve with tortilla chips for scooping

Creative Twists

In summer add ripe cherry tomatoes or grilled corn In winter sub in roasted butternut squash or swap salsa for a chipotle sauce

This recipe has shown up at potlucks game days and family reunions more times than I can count Everyone customizes their bowl and the slow cooker means I can visit without being stuck in the kitchen It is always a winner at my table

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ How do I keep the chicken moist?

Cooking the chicken with salsa and broth in the slow cooker ensures it stays tender and juicy.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra flavor and richness to the dish.

→ Is this bowl suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Assemble the ingredients ahead and store separately to keep everything fresh, then combine before serving.

→ What toppings go well with the bowl?

Top with cheese, extra cilantro, sliced jalapenos, or a squeeze of lime for added flavor and texture.

→ Can I make it vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for roasted veggies or extra beans, and use vegetable broth instead.