As I pulled the last fresh ingredient from my fridge, a delightful aroma enveloped my kitchen—Tex-Mex magic was about to unfold! This Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl is my go-to recipe when I’m craving a satisfying meal that won’t weigh me down. With just 25 minutes of prep time, it strikes the perfect balance between taste and convenience, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade yet healthy. Packed with over 35 grams of protein per serving and offering the versatility of meal prep, this bowl is your ally in achieving those fitness goals without sacrificing flavor. And did I mention how customizable it is? You’ll want to stick around to discover all the delicious variations you can create!
Why You’ll Love This Burrito Bowl
Quick and Easy: This Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl can be on your table in just 25 minutes, perfect for hectic evenings when time is short.
Protein Powerhouse: With over 35 grams of protein per serving, it supports your fitness journey while keeping carbs in check.
Endless Customization: Feel free to swap in ground turkey or plant-based protein, or add veggies like bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Refreshing Crunch: Enjoy the delightful combination of fresh romaine and creamy avocado, balanced with the savory seasoned chicken that mirrors your favorite restaurant flavors.
Meal Prep Friendly: Easily prepare components in advance and store separately for quick assembly throughout the week—making healthy eating a breeze!
Explore more hearty options like Buffalo Chicken Burritos or add a twist with some tasty Strawberry Yogurt Bites for a balanced meal plan.
Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl Ingredients
For the Protein
• Ground Chicken – Lean protein source; feel free to substitute with turkey, beef, or plant-based protein for a twist.
• Taco Seasoning – Adds a rich, spiced flavor; choose between homemade or store-bought for convenience.
For the Base
• Cauliflower Rice – Low carb alternative to traditional rice, providing bulk without the carbs; can be used fresh or frozen.
• Romaine Lettuce – Provides a fresh crunch and serves as a base for the bowl.
For the Toppings
• Avocado – Creamy texture and source of healthy fats that make every bite satisfying.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Sweet and juicy; they add a burst of freshness to the dish.
• Red Onion – Offers sharpness and crunch to balance the creamy ingredients.
• Mexican Cheese Blend – Creates a rich, cheesy layer that elevates the bowl’s flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro – Brightens and enhances flavors, making the dish feel fresh.
• Sugar-free Salsa – Adds moisture and spice without added sugar, perfect for a low-carb option.
• Full-fat Sour Cream – Creamy element that balances the flavors and offers a lovely finish.
• Fresh Lime Juice – Brightens the dish with acidity, enhancing the overall taste.
• Jalapeño – Adds heat; adjust the quantity to cater to your preferred spice level.
Now that you have all the essential components for this Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl, let’s dive into the cooking process that will turn these ingredients into a delicious masterpiece!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Add the ground chicken to the skillet, using a spatula to break it apart. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally for even cooking. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat is golden brown.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl lighter. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked chicken, adding 2-3 tablespoons of water to help distribute the seasoning. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for an additional 2 minutes until well-coated, letting those delicious flavors meld together.
Step 3: Rest the Chicken
Remove the skillet from the heat, allowing the seasoned chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps develop the flavors, making your Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl more flavorful. The chicken will retain moisture during this time, ensuring a juicy bite.
Step 4: Prepare the Cauliflower Rice
While the chicken rests, prepare the cauliflower rice as your hearty base. If using fresh cauliflower, grate it or pulse it in a food processor until it resembles rice. For frozen cauliflower, simply microwave it for 4-5 minutes or sauté it in a separate pan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until heated through and tender.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
In individual serving bowls, create a base with a layer of chopped romaine followed by the cauliflower rice. This combination adds texture to your Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl. Next, spoon the seasoned chicken on top, followed by slices of creamy avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and a sprinkle of Mexican cheese blend for added richness.
Step 6: Top it Off
Finish off each Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl with dollops of full-fat sour cream and sugar-free salsa for extra flavor and moisture. For a spicy kick, sprinkle minced jalapeño on top, adjusting the heat to your liking. Squeeze fresh lime juice over everything to brighten the dish, ensuring a refreshing and vibrant meal experience.
Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delightful dish to your taste!
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Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a deliciously leaner and lighter option.
Ground turkey provides a subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with Tex-Mex spices, making it a fantastic alternative. -
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute seasoned tempeh or black soybeans for a hearty vegetarian option.
This swap adds protein and a wealth of texture, ensuring everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal at the table. -
Veggie Boost: Add a medley of colorful bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and crunch.
The vibrant colors not only enhance the visual appeal but also pack extra vitamins into your bowl. -
Extra Creamy: Swap full-fat sour cream for Greek yogurt to boost protein with a tangy twist.
This creamy upgrade brings a delightful zing that brightens each bite while keeping it healthy. -
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of chipotle sauce to turn up the heat.
Perfect for spice lovers, this addition will set your taste buds ablaze and elevate each flavor in your bowl. -
Cheese Fusion: Experiment with different cheese blends, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a Mediterranean twist.
Each variation creates a unique flavor profile, adding excitement to your meal prep routine. -
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs such as basil or mint for a refreshing twist that complements the Tex-Mex flavors.
These herbs will add a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the other ingredients.
For more inspiration, you might enjoy making easy ground beef enchiladas or switch things up with some fun strawberry yogurt bites for dessert!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl
Fridge: Store any leftover Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl components in airtight containers for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the seasoned chicken and cauliflower rice in separate airtight bags for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken and cauliflower rice together in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Airtight Storage: Always make sure each component is cooled before sealing in airtight containers to prevent condensation and maintain quality.
What to Serve with Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl
As you savor this vibrant bowl, consider complementing it with delightful sides and drinks to create a well-rounded meal experience.
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Zesty Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime adds brightness, enhancing the flavors of your burrito bowl and elevating every bite.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: These crunchy snacks provide a satisfying texture contrast, perfect for scooping up the ingredients in your bowl.
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Refreshing Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, this salad made with cucumbers and citrus offers a cooling element that balances the spiciness.
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: A creamy, cheesy addition that brings sweetness and tang, perfectly complementing the savory notes of your dish.
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Margaritas: A classic pairing; the refreshing lime flavor of a margarita complements the Tex-Mex spices, making every sip a treat.
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Guacamole: Creamy avocado goodness adds extra richness and flavor, making each spoonful of your burrito bowl even more indulgent.
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Chili Lime Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy and packed with flavor, these can be a delightful side that adds a little zing and protein to your meal.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this indulgent yet healthy treat made with avocado will surprise your guests and provides a satisfying finish to your meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowls are perfect for busy weeknights and can be made ahead to save you time! You can prepare the seasoned ground chicken and cauliflower rice up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the chicken as directed, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The cauliflower rice can be prepped and refrigerated as well. To maintain freshness, store ingredients like avocado and tomatoes separately and add them just before serving to prevent browning. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken and cauliflower rice together for 1-2 minutes in the microwave or stovetop, then simply assemble your bowls. Enjoy a delicious, guilt-free meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl
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Rest the Chicken: Allowing the seasoned chicken to rest enhances its flavor and juiciness, giving your Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl a delightful depth.
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Store Smart: For peak freshness, store each component separately in airtight containers. This keeps everything delicious for up to 4 days.
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Avoid Browning: To prevent avocado from browning, add it just before serving. This ensures your bowl looks vibrant and appetizing.
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Cauliflower Prep: Use fresh or frozen cauliflower rice — just ensure it’s well-drained if using frozen to avoid extra moisture in your dish.
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Spice it Up: Adjust the jalapeño quantity according to your spice preference. Start small, then add more for a delicious kick!
Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl Recipe FAQs
What type of ground meat should I use for my burrito bowl?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a fantastic lean protein option, but you can also substitute it with ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based proteins like tempeh or black soybeans for a delicious twist.
How should I store leftover burrito bowl components?
For peak freshness, store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keeping them separate helps maintain the texture and flavor of each ingredient, ensuring your Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl tastes great every time you indulge!
Can I freeze my burrito bowl ingredients?
Very! You can freeze the seasoned chicken and cauliflower rice in separate airtight bags for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let them fully cool before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost them in the fridge overnight, then reheat together in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
Why is my avocado browning quickly?
To prevent browning, it’s best to add avocado just before serving your Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl. If you have any leftover avocado, you can sprinkle a bit of lime juice on it to slow down the browning process.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
No worries at all! You can make a homemade taco seasoning by mixing cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Use about 2 tablespoons for this recipe for that lovely Tex-Mex flavor you crave!
Is this recipe suitable for gluten allergies?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in the Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl can be gluten-free. Just be sure to use gluten-free taco seasoning and check the labels on any packaged items, like the cheese or sour cream, to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
Savor Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl for a Healthy Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart. Cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the chicken, adding 2-3 tablespoons of water.
- Mix thoroughly and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the cauliflower rice. For fresh, grate or pulse in a food processor, or microwave frozen for 4-5 minutes.
- In serving bowls, layer chopped romaine, then cauliflower rice, followed by the seasoned chicken and toppings.
- Finish with dollops of sour cream and salsa, sprinkle with minced jalapeño, and squeeze lime juice over.
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