A busy day calls for a meal that’s easy to make but full of flavor, and these slow cooker chicken burrito bowls check all the boxes. Picture this: tender, seasoned chicken that falls apart as it simmers in a mix of tomatoes, beans, and spices.
The slow cooker does all the hard work while you get to enjoy a dish that’s loaded with vibrant flavors—and it’s ready when you are.
This meal is great for meal prep, family dinners, or when you want to impress your friends with minimal effort. Plus, it’s customizable! Serve it on rice, in tortillas, or top it with your favorite toppings, like guacamole, sour cream, and cheese. It’s everything you love about burritos, without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
If you’re looking for a delicious, no-fuss dinner, here’s why you need to make this:
- Minimal Effort – Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. No need for constant attention!
- Tender Chicken – The slow cooking process ensures the chicken turns out juicy and shreddable, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- Endless Customization – Serve it over rice, in a taco shell, or on a salad for a fresh twist. Top it with all your favorite burrito fillings, from cheese to salsa to jalapeños.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and have meals ready for the week. It stores well in the fridge and is just as tasty the next day.
This is a dish that’s not only flavorful but also versatile, so it’ll work for whatever you’re craving.
Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
A few simple ingredients come together to make this hearty, flavorful dish:
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Boneless, skinless chicken is best for easy shredding.
- Canned Black Beans – A hearty addition for protein and texture.
- Corn – Adds sweetness and crunch, balancing the richness of the chicken.
- Diced Tomatoes – Create a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Spices – Chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder bring the authentic burrito flavor.
- Chicken Broth – Keeps everything moist and adds a savory depth.
- Lime Juice – For a fresh, zesty finish.
These ingredients come together to create a hearty, balanced meal that’s loaded with flavors from all over. It’s the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and spicy.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
Making these chicken burrito bowls is incredibly simple. Here’s how:
- Season the Chicken – Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Add them to the slow cooker.
- Add the Veggies – Pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Give everything a quick stir to combine.
- Slow Cook the Chicken – Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the Chicken – Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce.
- Assemble the Bowls – Serve the chicken and sauce over rice, in tortillas, or on a salad. Top with cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and your favorite burrito toppings.
This method ensures that the chicken is tender and juicy, with a flavorful sauce that’s perfect for soaking up in each bite.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
Here are some delicious sides and toppings to complete your burrito bowl:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Cilantro Lime Rice | A fragrant, zesty rice that complements the chicken perfectly. |
| Guacamole | Creamy and cool, it adds richness and balances the heat. |
| Tortilla Chips | Crunchy and salty, perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce. |
| Sour Cream | A creamy topping that cools down the spice and adds tang. |
| Shredded Cheese | Adds melty richness on top of the warm chicken. |
| Pico de Gallo | Fresh and vibrant, it adds a burst of flavor and texture. |
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
This dish is great for leftovers, and it stores really well. Here’s how:
How to Store Leftovers
- Allow the dish to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
- It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
- Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little water or chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully heated.
- Slow Cooker: You can reheat the leftovers in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
Here are some helpful tips to make sure this dish turns out perfectly:
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat. However, chicken breasts also work well for a leaner option.
- For extra flavor, top your bowls with salsa, jalapeños, or pickled onions for a tangy bite.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. Once it’s tender and shreddable, it’s ready. Cooking it too long may dry it out.
- Customize the toppings – add your favorite burrito fillings like avocado, pico de gallo, or hot sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Simply add the frozen chicken directly to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 5 hours. The chicken will be just as tender and flavorful.
2. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! To make it spicier, add jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the slow cooker. Adjust the level of spice to your liking.
3. Can I use a different cut of chicken?
While chicken thighs work best for slow cooking, you can use boneless skinless breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prepping. The flavors get even better after sitting overnight. Store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
5. What can I substitute for rice in this dish?
You can substitute rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
These slow cooker chicken burrito bowls are flavorful, customizable, and simple to make. The tender chicken paired with a rich, savory sauce and fresh toppings makes this a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy it with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to add extra guacamole!
Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
Equipment
- Large Skillet For browning chicken and sautéing garlic
- Slow Cooker For slow cooking the chicken
- Wooden Spoon For stirring
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 cup fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1 cup chopped peanuts for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir everything to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shredded.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the sauce.
- Serve the shredded chicken over rice, in tortillas, or on a salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Notes
- Top with **sour cream**, **guacamole**, or your favorite salsa for added flavor.
- This recipe works great for **meal prep**—store leftovers in the fridge for up to **3 days** or freeze for **up to 3 months**.
- If you like more heat, add **jalapeños** or **hot sauce** to the slow cooker.
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