Go Back

Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls - Easy, Flavorful, and Weeknight-Friendly

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice or brown rice (for serving; cook separately)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn (if canned, drain)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup your favorite salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional for richer sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Toppings: diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, jalapeños, pico de gallo, hot sauce

Method
 

  1. Prep the slow cooker base: Add the onion, garlic, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, chicken broth, and tomato paste to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  2. Season: In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the mixture over the chicken on both sides.
  3. Add the chicken: Nestle the seasoned chicken into the sauce mixture in the slow cooker, submerging it slightly.
  4. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 4–6 hours or High for 2.5–3.5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily.
  5. Shred the chicken: Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and shred with two forks. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and stir. Add lime juice and adjust salt to taste.
  6. Cook the rice: While the chicken finishes, cook your rice according to package directions. For extra flavor, use broth instead of water.
  7. Assemble bowls: Spoon rice into bowls. Top with the chicken mixture and add your favorite toppings. Finish with fresh cilantro.
  8. Serve: Add a squeeze of lime and a drizzle of hot sauce for a final punch of brightness and heat.