Chipotle-Style Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe (Copycat)

Save money and enjoy restaurant-style flavor at home with this Copycat Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl. This easy, affordable recipe combines tender baked chicken, cilantro-lime brown rice, warm seasoned beans, and sautéed fajita vegetables. Finish with your favorite toppings like pico de gallo, guacamole, and cheese for a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

I’m a total Chipotle burrito bowl lover — I could eat one most days and be happy. Making them at home is simple, healthier, and far less expensive than buying them from the restaurant. A single burrito bowl at Chipotle typically costs around $8–$10; multiplying that for a family or a week of lunches adds up quickly. This recipe serves four and uses common pantry ingredients, making it an excellent option for meal prep and budget-friendly cooking.

Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl Equation

• Chicken
• Fajita vegetables
• Cilantro lime brown rice
• Beans
• Toppings

Toppings are optional but add great texture and flavor. My favorites are pico de gallo, guacamole, and a sprinkle of cheese. If you plan to prepare these bowls ahead of time for lunch or dinner during the week, wait to add fresh toppings until serving day — nobody wants warm guacamole or soggy pico de gallo. For meal prep, divide components into separate containers so they stay fresher longer.

Copycat Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl

Summary: This copycat Chipotle burrito bowl is a budget-friendly, convenient, and delicious way to enjoy a favorite restaurant dish at home. It’s easy to assemble and ideal for meal prep throughout the week.

By: Lee Funke

Ingredients

Chicken

• 16 oz chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 lime, juiced

Cilantro Lime Brown Rice

• 1 cup long grain brown rice (you may substitute white rice; adjust liquid accordingly)
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 lime, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Fajita Veggies

• 1 large red pepper, sliced
• 1 large green pepper, sliced
• 1/2 large yellow onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/8 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Beans

• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, rinsed (black beans work too)
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• Pepper, to taste

Toppings

• Cheese
• Guacamole
• Pico de gallo

Instructions

For the Chicken

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly spray with cooking spray or brush with a little oil.
2. Place the chicken breasts on the baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken and dice into bite-sized chunks.

Cilantro Lime Brown Rice

1. Combine rice and water in a medium pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
2. When the rice is done, stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and salt. Mix well and fluff with a fork.

Fajita Veggies

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced peppers and onion and sauté for 7–10 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the peppers are softened.
2. Season with minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook another minute to toast the spices and combine flavors.

Beans

1. Place the rinsed beans in a small pot with salt and pepper. Heat over medium-high until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide the cilantro lime rice, diced chicken, warm beans, and fajita veggies into four bowls or meal prep containers.
2. Top with your preferred toppings: cheese, guacamole, and pico de gallo. If packing for meal prep, store toppings separately to keep them fresh.
3. These bowls will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored properly.

Tips and Variations

• For a quicker rice option, use pre-cooked rice or a microwaveable pouch; adjust lime and cilantro to taste.
• Swap the chicken for grilled steak, shrimp, or tofu for different protein options.
• Make it low-carb by serving over a bed of lettuce instead of rice.
• For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chipotle powder to the chicken seasoning.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is provided as an estimate and will vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Per serving: Calories: 533 kcal, Carbohydrates: 57 g, Protein: 45 g, Fat: 13 g, Fiber: 8 g, Sugar: 3 g

Note: These values are approximate and should be used as a general guideline only.