Copycat Qdoba Chicken Burrito Bowls

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When I think of a satisfying meal, few things come to mind as quickly as a hearty burrito bowl. These bowls are not only delightful to the palate but also adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs.

Last summer, I had a mini burrito bowl competition with friends. Everyone was tasked with creating their version of the perfect burrito bowl. Spoiler alert: my copycat Qdoba chicken burrito bowls stole the show! So why not take a culinary journey together and recreate this winner in your own kitchen?

Now, before we dive into those tantalizing layers of goodness, let’s discuss what pairs perfectly with this dish. Think fresh pico de gallo, cheese, and creamy guacamole. These toppings add texture and flavor that elevates the entire experience. A refreshing drink like a lime-infused sparkling water or an iced tea could be your delightful sidekick. Now, let’s set the stage for how to make these copycat burrito bowls that everyone will love.

Burrito bowls have become a staple in many restaurants, particularly at fast-casual chains like Qdoba. They offer a customizable, wholesome meal option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. This copycat recipe brings the flavors of Qdoba right into your kitchen, offering a delicious way to enjoy a flavorful experience at home.

In this exploration, I’ll share why this recipe works, what you’ll need, and guide you through each cooking step. You’ll find tips for storage, nutrition information, and even some innovative suggestions for serving. Plus, there’s a handy FAQ section because, let’s face it, cooking can raise a lot of questions.

Table of Contents

What is Copycat Qdoba Chicken Burrito Bowls?

Essentially, copycat Qdoba chicken burrito bowls comprise all the flavors you love about Qdoba but in a convenient, DIY format. You’ll have seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant vegetables, and zesty toppings all in one bowl. It’s a way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal while saving time and money.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe shines because it balances flavor and freshness. The spices used in the chicken blend beautifully with the other ingredients. You can make it ahead of time, adapt it to your liking, and it doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Dive into this dish, and you’ll uncover a delightful mix of flavors that genuinely resonates.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Gathering your ingredients is the first step in this culinary adventure. Here’s what you’ll need:

Burrito Bowl Ingredients

1 cup shredded lettuce
1 (15 oz) can sweet corn, drained and rinsed
¼ cup diced red bell pepper
4 cups cooked and chopped chicken seasoned Qdoba-style
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, grilled vegetables, or salsa

Pico de Gallo Ingredients

1 jalapeño pepper, deseeded and finely diced (optional)
½ cup red onion, finely chopped
1 small bunch fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
½ teaspoon minced garlic (optional)
1 cup ripe Roma tomatoes, finely diced
Juice of 1 fresh lime
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Rice

2 teaspoons salt
3½ cups water
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups long-grain white rice
Juice of ½ lime
½ teaspoon ground cumin
Small handful of chopped cilantro leaves

How to Make Copycat Qdoba Chicken Burrito Bowls

Let’s keep it simple. This recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts seasoned with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Marinate it for at least 30 minutes. Not only does this enhance flavor, but it keeps the chicken juicy. Once marinated, grill or pan-sear the chicken until cooked through. Cut it up into bite-sized pieces, and set it aside for assembly later.

Step 2: Make the Rice

In a medium pot, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring it to a boil. Stir in the rice, reduce heat, and cover. Cook according to the package directions. Once the rice is fluffy, stir in lime juice and cumin for an added zing.

Step 3: Prepare the Pico de Gallo

Dice the tomatoes and chop the onions, cilantro, jalapeño, and garlic (if using). Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper. This fresh topping is a showstopper!

Step 4: Assemble the Burrito Bowls

In a bowl, layer the chicken, rice, black beans, corn, bell pepper, and lettuce. Top it off with your favorite toppings. You can arrange the layers so it’s picture-perfect, or just toss it all in and go to town!

Step 5: Enjoy!

Serve immediately, but save some for later if you want—because leftovers can be just as good.

Tips for Making Copycat Qdoba Chicken Burrito Bowls

Here are some pointers to enhance your burrito bowl experience:

Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust spice levels to fit your palate. Adding cayenne or smoked paprika can give that extra kick!
Cook Rice Perfectly: Rinsing your rice before cooking helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains.
Add Fresh Ingredients: Incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro not only elevates the flavor but adds vibrant color to your dish.
Make it a Meal Prep: These bowls are fantastic for meal prepping. Make a big batch and divide it into containers for easy meals throughout the week.
Mix and Match Ingredients: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have available in your kitchen. This makes your meals more versatile.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra burrito bowls, store them in airtight containers in the fridge. They are good for about 3-4 days. For optimal freshness, store toppings separately. You can also freeze the cooked chicken and rice for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Nutrition Information

How Would I Recommend Serving Copycat Qdoba Chicken Burrito Bowls?

Build Your Own Bar: Set it up like a taco bar! Offer separate bowls with each ingredient laid out—guests can construct their own masterpieces. It’s sociable and fun!
Pair with a Salad: Serve alongside a fresh salad to balance the heartiness of the burrito bowl. A light vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch.
Add a Side of Chips: A sprinkle of tortilla chips on the side adds crunch and pairs perfectly with your favorite salsa.
Top with Fried Eggs: For breakfast lovers, adding a fried egg on top of your burrito bowl creates a breakfast twist.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?

Chicken: Tofu or Seitan can be great vegetarian substitutes, soaking up the same marinade for fantastic flavor.
Rice: Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice works wonders for a low-carb or gluten-free version.
Black Beans: Pinto Beans or Chickpeas can replace black beans, adding different textures and flavors.
Corn: Frozen Peas not only work as a substitute but also enhance nutrition with vitamins and minerals.