High Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl
A Flavor-Packed Meal High in Protein and Fiber
If youโre taking GLP-1 medication, you know how important it is to get enough protein and fiber. But letโs be honest, flavor matters too. Thatโs why I love this chicken burrito bowl. Itโs hearty, colorful, and nourishing, with juicy marinated chicken, fresh veggies, creamy toppings, and wholesome grains.
This oneโs a regular at my house, and Iโm excited for you to try it.
Why Youโll Love This Bowl
- High in protein and fiber
- Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
- Perfect for meal prep
- Packed with flavor
Burrito bowls are endlessly flexible; load them up with what you love. Black beans, pinto beans, extra veggies, or even a different proteinโitโs all fair game.
The Ingredients (and Why They Work)
Protein
Chicken
Four ounces of chicken breast gives you over 30 grams of lean protein. Thatโs especially important if youโre on GLP-1 medication, since protein helps you maintain muscle while you lose weight.
Base
Rice and beans add staying power and balance.
Black Beans
Half a cup offers about 6 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber. Beans are nutrient powerhouses and add a satisfying, earthy flavor.
Brown Rice
Brown rice has more fiber and minerals, while white rice is gentler on digestion. And reheating it even boosts its resistant starch, which acts like fiber. They both work; use what fits your taste and needs.
Veggies
Bell peppers and onions bring sweetness, crunch, and antioxidants. A single red bell pepper can give you more than 100% of your daily vitamin C needs!
Toppings
- Avocado: Healthy fats + 2.5 grams of fiber in just a quarter of an avocado. Great for taste and digestion.
- Greek Yogurt: Creamy, tangy, and a smart swap for sour cream. Adds probiotics and protein.
- Pico de Gallo: My secret way to sneak in more veggies. Fresh, bright, and perfect here.
Spices & Lime: Layers of smoky, zesty flavor, plus antioxidants.
High Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Juice of 4 lemons
- 1 tablespoon olive oil to marinate the chicken
- 2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke optional but delicious
- pinch salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 cup brown, cooked or white rice
- 2 bell peppers I like red for sweetness
- 2 onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil to cook chicken and vegetables
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado Hass
- 4 tablespoons Greek yogurt plain or sour cream
- 4 tablespoon pico de gallo
- .25 cups Fresh cilantro
- 8 Lime wedges
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Pat the chicken dry. In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine chicken, olive oil, lemon juice, liquid smoke, and spices. Marinate at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor
- Cook the rice: Prepare according to package directions.
- Prep the veggies: Slice the peppers and onions into strips.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Add a drizzle of oil, then place the chicken in the pan. Cook 4โ6 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Add the veggies: Once the chicken is seared, add the peppers and onions to the skillet. Cover, reduce heat, and cook about 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165ยฐF and the vegetables are tender. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest before slicing.
- Warm the beans: Drain and rinse the beans until the water runs clear to remove excess sodium. Warm them in a small pan.
- Assemble Your bowl: Layer rice, beans, veggies, and sliced chicken. Finish with avocado, Greek yogurt, pico de gallo, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Nutrition
Meal Prep Burrito Bowls
This recipe makes four meals, perfect for the week ahead.
- Assemble bowls with rice, beans, veggies, and chicken (leave toppings off).
- Store in glass or BPA-free airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat for 2 minutes in the microwave, then add your toppings.
Final Thoughts
Burrito bowls are an easy and fun way to eat high-protein, high-fiber meals. With simple ingredients and a little prep, you get a flavorful, nourishing meal youโll actually look forward to.
And the best part? You can make it your own by swapping out different ingredients. Try beef, shrimp, or a vegetarian version with extra beans. Play with toppings. Turn up the spice. The possibilities are endless.
This recipe saves me time and energy every week, and I know itโll do the same for you. Give it a try, youโll be glad you did.
Bookmark this recipe and let us know if you make it.
This post is a collaboration between Dr. Su-Nui Escobar and nutrition intern Anna Linville, who created the recipe.
From recipes to meal prep tipsโfind your next high-protein idea in our blogโs High-Protein Foods section.