Pin Recipe Enjoy the bold, vibrant flavors of a Mexican feast without the heavy calorie count. This 400-Calorie Burrito Bowl replaces traditional grains with a zesty, home-made cilantro-lime cauliflower rice, providing a light yet satisfying base for tender, spiced chicken breast and a rainbow of fresh toppings. It is a perfect solution for anyone looking for a high-protein, gluten-free meal that is ready in just 30 minutes.
Pin Recipe Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch option, this burrito bowl delivers on both nutrition and taste. The combination of warm, seasoned chicken and cool, creamy avocado topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt creates a texture profile that rivals any restaurant bowl.
Ingredients
- Cauliflower Rice: 1 1/2 cups cauliflower florets, 1 tsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, pinch of salt and pepper.
- Chicken: 3 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast, 1/4 tsp chili powder, 1/4 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, pinch of salt and pepper, 1/2 tsp olive oil.
- Toppings: 1/4 cup canned black beans (rinsed/drained), 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/8 cup diced red onion, 1/4 medium avocado (sliced), 1 tbsp plain Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves, lime wedge.
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower
- Pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until rice-sized pieces form.
- Step 2: Sauté Cauliflower
- Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add cauliflower rice and cook, stirring often, for 3–4 minutes until just tender.
- Step 3: Season the Rice
- Stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 4: Season the Chicken
- Season chicken breast with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 5: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1/2 teaspoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken breast for 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest 2 minutes, then slice or dice.
- Step 6: Assemble the Bowl
- Place cauliflower rice in a bowl. Top with chicken, black beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.
- Step 7: Final Garnish
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt, sprinkle with extra cilantro, and serve with a lime wedge.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the cauliflower rice doesn't become mushy, be careful not to overcook it in the skillet; 3-4 minutes is usually the sweet spot for a tender-crisp texture. If you don't have a food processor, you can use a box grater to create the cauliflower 'rice' manually.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for extra black beans or grilled tofu. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeño or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. For those with a higher calorie limit, a sprinkle of shredded cheese or cotija can add even more depth to the dish.
Serviervorschläge
This bowl is best served immediately while the chicken and cauliflower rice are warm and the toppings are fresh. It also works brilliantly for meal prep; simply store the cauliflower rice and chicken together to be reheated, while keeping the fresh toppings like avocado and yogurt in separate containers.
Pin Recipe
With its balance of spices, fresh vegetables, and lean protein, this 400-calorie burrito bowl is a testament to how flavorful healthy eating can be. It is a satisfying meal that leaves you feeling energized and fueled.
Recipe FAQs
- → How is the cauliflower rice prepared?
Cauliflower florets are pulsed in a food processor until they reach rice-sized pieces, then sautéed in olive oil with lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
- → What seasoning is used on the chicken?
The chicken breast is lightly seasoned with chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper before cooking.
- → Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes, substitute chicken with extra black beans or grilled tofu to keep it plant-based and maintain protein content.
- → What toppings complement the bowl?
Black beans, cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, sliced avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and fresh cilantro leaves enhance flavor and texture.
- → How long does preparation and cooking take?
Both preparation and cooking take about 15 minutes each, making it a quick meal to assemble in around 30 minutes total.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but verify canned goods and seasonings to ensure no gluten contamination.