Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowl Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, all-in-one meal that brings bold flavors with minimal effort, this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowl Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a hearty, colorful dish packed with tender chicken, wholesome brown rice, zesty salsa, and the perfect blend of spices. The best part? You set it and forget it, then come back to a warm, delicious meal that feels like a fiesta in a bowl. Whether you’re feeding family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe makes dinner exciting and truly fuss-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, pantry-friendly, and bursting with flavor, each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowl Recipe a standout. From the nutty brown rice to the smoky spices, these ingredients blend beautifully to create a rich, satisfying dish.

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provides lean protein that soaks up all the spices and salsa.
• 1 cup uncooked brown rice (not instant): Adds a wholesome, chewy texture that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
• 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses the rice with savory depth.
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creaminess and fiber, balancing the dish perfectly.
• 1 cup frozen corn: Brings a touch of natural sweetness and pops of color.
• 1 1/2 cups chunky salsa (your preferred heat level): Delivers a tangy, spicy kick that wakes up the whole bowl.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Essential for that classic Southwestern warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthiness that makes the flavors deeper and more vibrant.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle savory undertone.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall aromatic profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a gentle smoky note that elevates the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Basics that perfectly balance all the flavors.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional): Melts beautifully on top for a creamy, indulgent finish.
• Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, lime wedges, or sour cream for serving (optional): Adds freshness and a touch of variety for garnishing your bowl.

How to Make Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowl Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by spraying the bottom of your slow cooker with nonstick spray to ensure nothing sticks as the dish cooks. This little step makes cleaning up afterward a breeze, especially with all the rich ingredients going in.

Step 2: Layer the Base

Evenly spread the uncooked brown rice on the bottom of the crock pot. This creates the perfect foundation that will absorb all the delicious juices and come out tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Add Beans, Corn, and Salsa

Next, layer the black beans, frozen corn, and chunky salsa over the rice. These ingredients contribute essential textures and flavors that make this burrito bowl truly special. The beans add creaminess, corn adds sweetness, and salsa brings that lively, spicy punch.

Step 4: Season and Add Chicken

Place the chicken breasts right on top of the layered veggies and rice. Then sprinkle all the spices — chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika — plus salt and pepper evenly over the chicken. These spices infuse the chicken and everything beneath with warmth, smokiness, and depth.

Step 5: Pour in Broth

Pour the chicken broth evenly over all the ingredients. This liquid will cook the rice perfectly and keep the chicken juicy and tender as it slow cooks.

Step 6: Let It Cook

Cover the crock pot and cook on HIGH for 3.5 to 4 hours or LOW for 6 to 7 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. The slow cooking melds all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 7: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken breasts carefully, shred them with two forks, then return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir everything together. This ensures each bite is packed with shredded chicken and seasoned rice.

Step 8: Add Cheese (Optional)

If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt for a few minutes. This step adds a creamy, melty layer that makes the bowl even more comforting.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot in bowls with optional toppings like diced avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or a dollop of sour cream. These garnishes add freshness, creaminess, and a bit of zing that elevate the whole dish.

How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowl Recipe

Garnishes

The magic of a burrito bowl goes well beyond the base ingredients. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of bright herbal flavor, while creamy diced avocado brings richness. A squeeze of lime juice adds the perfect touch of acidity, and sour cream lends coolness that counters the spices beautifully. These finishing touches make every bite fresh and balanced.

Side Dishes

This bowl is a full meal by itself, but if you want to add a side, consider simple Mexican street corn salad (elote), a crisp green salad with lime dressing, or even some warm tortillas to scoop up the delicious filling. These sides add texture contrast and extra fun to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowl Recipe in taco shells or stuffed inside warm pita or naan for a fusion feel. You can also layer it in a mason jar for an easy grab-and-go lunch that’s both vibrant and satisfying. Presentation is all about making this hearty dish feel fresh and exciting each time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to airtight containers and refrigerate. The flavors continue to meld in the fridge, making it even tastier the next day. It’s a perfect weekday lunch or quick dinner after a busy day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Store individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. When you want a quick meal, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If it seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture and keep the rice from sticking.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Absolutely! White rice will cook faster and become softer, so you might want to adjust the cooking time slightly or monitor the texture to avoid mushiness. The flavor will still be fantastic.

Is it okay to use frozen chicken breast?

Yes, frozen chicken breast can be used, but the cooking time will be longer. It’s best to add about 1 to 2 extra hours on low or an additional 30 minutes on high to ensure it cooks fully and stays tender.

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat level depends largely on the salsa you choose and how much chili powder you add. You can easily tailor the spice by picking a mild salsa and adjusting the chili powder to your liking — it’s very forgiving!

Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply leave out the chicken and add extra beans, veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, and perhaps a meat substitute if you like. Just remember to substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.

What toppings are best for this burrito bowl?

Classic toppings include avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, and shredded cheese. You can also add pickled jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra brightness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowl Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s packed with flavor, simple to throw together, and perfect for busy days when you want something nourishing without fuss. I can’t recommend giving it a try enough — once you do, it’s likely to become a regular in your rotation just like it is in mine!

Print