Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowls Recipe

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Say goodbye to busy weeknight stress with these delicious Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowls! Packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant spices, this easy recipe is perfect for a quick family dinner. Save this pin for a tasty meal that’s ready in no time, ideal for Taco Tuesday or any night you crave comfort food!

Oh, how I love weeknight dinners! They often come with a side of chaos, a dash of tiredness, and a whole lot of “What’s for dinner?” stress. That’s why I’m absolutely thrilled to share my go-to recipe for Instant Pot Weeknight Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowls. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate that comes together in, quite literally, a flash.

I still remember the first time I made this recipe; it was a Tuesday evening. I had promised myself that the week would be different: no takeout, no frozen pizzas. I stood in my kitchen, staring blankly at the ingredients scattered across my counter, wondering how I was going to pull this off without losing my mind. Then I found my Instant Pot and realized I was saved! 10 minutes later, I was sitting down to one of the most flavorful and satisfying dinners—and with so little effort. Okay, soul sisters and brothers, let’s dive into what makes these burrito bowls not only easy to whip up but also unforgettable!

What’s in Instant Pot Weeknight Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowls?

Let’s break down the ingredients that transform simple pantry staples into a scrumptious meal!

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts: I love using thighs because they add so much flavor and tenderness, but breasts work just as well if that’s what you have on hand.

Long-Grain Rice: Whether you choose white or brown rice, this is the heart of the dish. Brown rice will give a nuttier flavor and chewy consistency, while white rice cooks up softer and faster.

Black Beans: These are packed with protein and fiber, adding a hearty base to our bowls. Canned ones make it quick and easy—just drain and rinse!

Frozen Corn: Sweet corn gives a pop of color and flavor. I keep a bag in my freezer at all times because it’s so versatile.

Salsa: The star of the flavor show! Use your favorite kind, whether you like it mild or fiery hot. It adds a delicious zest to the bowls.

Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor. If you want to keep it simple, store-bought works wonders—just avoid anything too salty!

Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder): These little flavor bombs bring depth and warmth to the dish. I always use a good quality chili powder for that rich taste.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Who can resist a melty cheese topping? It’s the ultimate final touch to these delicious bowls.

Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds freshness and a vibrant pop of color. If you’re not a cilantro fan, feel free to skip it!

Optional Add-ons: Avocado, sour cream, or lime wedges can elevate your burrito bowls even further. I mean, who doesn’t love a creamy scoop of guac or a squeeze of fresh lime?

Is Instant Pot Weeknight Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowls Good for You?

Absolutely! This recipe packs a punch of nutrition with no guilt attached.

Chicken: A great source of lean protein, perfect for muscle repair and keeping you feeling full longer.

Black Beans: These are truly a superfood! They are rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron.

Corn: Not only does it add sweetness, but it’s also a good source of vitamins B and C.

Rice: When you’re going with brown rice, you’re getting extra fiber which can help keep your digestive system on track.

The only thing to watch out for is salt. Many canned products, like beans and broth, can contain added sodium, so I always opt for low-sodium versions when possible.

Ingredients List

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice (white or brown)
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn
– 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy, based on preference)
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Optional: avocado, sour cream, or lime wedges for serving
– Serves 4

How to Make Instant Pot Weeknight Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowls?

1. Start by placing the chicken into the Instant Pot. Season it with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a little massage; show it some love!

2. Add the rinsed rice, black beans, corn, salsa, and chicken broth on top of the seasoned chicken.

3. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to the sealing position.

4. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, then switch to a quick release.

5. After opening the lid, shred the chicken using two forks and stir everything together until it’s all well combined and heavenly.

6. Serve the burrito bowls hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and garnished with fresh cilantro. Feel free to go wild with optional toppings like avocado, sour cream, or lime wedges!

7. Sit down, take a breath, and enjoy your quick and delicious weeknight dinner!

Tips and Variations for Your Burrito Bowls

Here’s where you can get creative! Swap out the chicken for lean ground turkey or even sautéed bell peppers for a tasty vegetarian option.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some spices like smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick. You could even toss in some diced red onion for crunch or jalapeños if you’re craving a spicy surprise.

And if you can’t resist a little crunch, serve your burrito bowls on a bed of tortilla chips, or even in a warm tortilla for a DIY burrito!

So there you have it, my friends! I hope you’ll give these delicious Instant Pot Weeknight Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowls a try on your next busy night. I promise you, once you taste how easy and delightful they are, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen, just like they are in mine. Share your experience or any tweaks you make—I’m always excited to hear how my friends are cooking! Bon appétit!

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