Easy Copycat Moe's Burrito Bowl Recipe - Simple & Customizable
Recreate the fresh, flavorful goodness of a Moe's burrito bowl at home with this easy copycat recipe! Learn how to make seasoned rice, flavorful beans, juicy protein, and pile on all your favorite toppings for a fully customizable, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying meal that's perfect for any day of the week.
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan with lid
- 1 Skillet or Pan
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Sharp Knife
- 1 Measuring Cups
- 1 Measuring Spoons
- 1 Colander
- 4 Large Bowls for serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Long-grain White Rice or brown rice
- 2 cups Water or chicken/vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Butter or Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice
- 2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) Black Beans rinsed and drained
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/2 tsp Cumin
- 1/4 tsp Chili Powder
- Pinch Cayenne Pepper optional
- 2 Garlic Cloves minced
- 1/4 cup Water or Broth
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
- 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs diced; OR 1 pound Steak (sirloin or flank, thinly sliced); OR 1 block (14 oz) Extra-Firm Tofu (pressed and diced)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Chili Powder
- 1/2 tsp Cumin
- 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/4 tsp Onion Powder
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
- Shredded Romaine Lettuce
- Shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack Cheese
- Pico de Gallo or your favorite Salsa
- Sour Cream or plain Greek Yogurt
- Sliced Avocado or Guacamole
- Canned or roasted Corn Kernels
- Pickled Jalapeños optional
- Chopped Red Onion or Pickled Red Onions
- Queso Blanco optional
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring water (or broth), salt, and butter/oil to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, stir once, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid while it's cooking. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Keep warm. Properly cooked rice is key to a great bowl.
- While the rice is cooking, dice or slice your chosen protein. In a bowl, toss the protein with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned protein and cook, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked through and slightly browned. This takes about 5-7 minutes for chicken/tofu, slightly less for thinly sliced steak. Remove from the skillet and set aside. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear.
- In the same skillet (or a separate small pot), heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the rinsed black beans, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne (if using). Pour in the water or broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced slightly and the beans are heated through and flavorful. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can lightly mash some beans against the side of the pan for a creamier texture if desired.
- While the other components are cooking, wash and shred your lettuce, shred cheese, chop onions, prepare salsa or guacamole, and slice avocado. Have all your desired toppings ready to go.
- Now for the fun part! Start with a generous scoop of warm cilantro-lime rice in the bottom of your bowl. Next, add a scoop of the seasoned black beans and your cooked protein. Finally, pile on your favorite toppings – shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, sour cream (or yogurt), avocado (or guac), corn, jalapeños, onions, and a drizzle of queso if using. Build it high!
Notes
Store individual components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat protein, rice, and beans gently before assembling bowls with fresh toppings.