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A close-up view of the juicy, charred chipotle chicken used in the burrito bowl, highlighting its texture and adobo marinade.

Chipotle Chicken Bowl (The Ultimate Homemade Recipe)

This homemade Chipotle Chicken Bowl recipe is the ultimate copycat! Featuring perfectly seasoned adobo chicken, zesty cilantro-lime rice, and all your favorite toppings for a healthy, easy, and delicious meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 750

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced plus 2 tbsp of the sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 limes, juiced
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained (15-ounce)
  • 1 cup corn salsa store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup pico de gallo store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup guacamole store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • Romaine lettuce, shredded

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Medium Saucepan
  • 2 Mixing Bowls

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine the minced garlic, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, olive oil, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat them completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, let it marinate for 4-6 hours.
  2. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water and 1 tsp of salt to a boil. Add the rice, stir once, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the olive oil, chopped cilantro, and lime juice.
  3. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it's cooked through and has a nice char. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Start with a generous base of cilantro lime rice. Top with the diced chipotle chicken, warmed black beans, corn salsa, pico de gallo, and shredded lettuce. Finish your Chipotle Chicken Bowl with a dollop of guacamole, sour cream, and a sprinkle of cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

Tip 1: For extra flavor, warm the black beans with a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of cumin before adding to the bowl.
Tip 2: The chicken marinade has a bit of a kick. If you prefer less heat, use only 1-2 chipotle peppers and skip adding extra adobo sauce.