Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun sets and the kitchen begins to sparkle with that delicious aroma, I can’t help but smile, thinking about the joyful moments that come with my Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls. There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the tender, shredded chicken mingling with chile-spiced rice, zesty salsa, and an array of colorful toppings. This dish isn’t just a quick fix; it offers the perfect blend of comfort food and flexibility, with just 10 minutes of prep time. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, it’s a customizable delight that caters to everyone’s taste buds. What toppings will you choose to elevate your bowl to taco perfection? Why are Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls a game-changer? Effortless Preparation: Spend just 10 minutes on prep, letting the slow cooker work its magic. Flavor Explosion: Experience tender chicken cooked in zesty salsa, infused with rich spices for a truly delectable bite. Customizable Delights: Mix and match your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for that perfect finishing touch. Comforting Warmth: Enjoy a bowl of warmth that embodies the essence of Mexican comfort food, perfect for cozy nights at home. Family-Friendly Fare: A dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters, much like these Fiery Chicken Ramen or Baked Chicken Tenders, making it ideal for gatherings! Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls Ingredients For the Chicken Base • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – This main protein source provides tenderness after cooking and shredding. • 1 medium yellow onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; red onion can substitute for a milder taste. • 1 (16 oz) jar salsa – Acts as the base flavor; choose mild, medium, or hot depending on your heat preference. • 1 (15 oz) can black beans – Adds protein and fiber; kidney beans can be a tasty alternative. • 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes – Adds moisture and acidity; fresh tomatoes can work if they’re in season. • 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles – Enhances flavor with mild heat; consider jalapeños if you prefer more spice. • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps everything moist; for a vegetarian option, swap with vegetable broth. For the Seasoning • 1 tsp chipotle chile powder or regular chile powder – Imparts smokiness and spice; use paprika for a milder flavor. • 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp ground oregano, 1 tsp table salt, 1 tsp finely ground black pepper – Essential spices that elevate the dish; Herbs de Provence can serve as an alternate seasoning. For the Rice • 2 cups instant rice (such as Minute Rice) – Quickly absorbs moisture and cooks well in the slow cooker; do not substitute with regular rice without adjustments. For the Topping • 8 oz shredded Colby-Jack cheese – Adds creamy texture; cheddar or a dairy-free alternative can also be used. • Optional garnishes: Sour cream, olives, avocado, hot sauce, cilantro, green onion – Customize according to your taste preferences to make this Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls shine! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Base Begin by placing 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of a 6-7 quart slow cooker. Evenly distribute 1 medium diced yellow onion over the chicken, then pour in the 16 oz jar of salsa. This initial layering sets the foundation for your Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls, ensuring the chicken absorbs all those delightful flavors while it cooks. Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients Next, add in the remaining ingredients for your savory dish. Pour in 1 can of black beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and 1 can of diced green chiles, followed by 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Sprinkle in 1 tsp each of chipotle chile powder, paprika, ground oregano, table salt, and finely ground black pepper to season. Gently stir to combine, ensuring everything is well coated and ready for cooking. Step 3: Cook the Chicken Set your slow cooker to low heat and allow the mixture to cook for 4 hours. This slow and gentle cooking process will transform the chicken into tender, shreds of goodness while melding the flavors together. As you wait, the enticing aroma of Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls will fill your kitchen, promising a delightful meal ahead. Step 4: Shred the Chicken Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker using tongs. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring it’s juicy and packed with flavor. Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker, mixing it into the savory broth, fully integrating it into your aromatic dish. Step 5: Incorporate the Rice Stir in 2 cups of instant rice into the slow cooker mixture. Ensure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the filling. Cover the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 45 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the flavorful broth, growing fluffy and adding heartiness to your Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls. Step 6: Melt the Cheese With the rice tender and cooked through, sprinkle 8 oz of shredded Colby-Jack cheese evenly across the top. Cover the slow cooker again and let it sit for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully, creating a deliciously creamy layer over the hearty base. Step 7: Serve with Toppings Finally, scoop the delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls into serving bowls. These customizable dishes can be adorned with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, olives, avocado, hot sauce, cilantro, or green onion. Each bowl is now a comforting, colorful medley ready to delight your family! Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5-7 days. Make sure the bowl is completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: Freeze any remaining Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheating: Gently reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For the best texture, reheat on low heat in a pot on the stove. Airtight Containers: Always use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and maintain that delicious flavor. Enjoy those comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls again soon! Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls Variations Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls even more exciting! Protein Swap: Try using pork, beef, or tofu for a different flavor profile. Each protein brings its unique taste, and can elevate your bowl in a surprising way! Whole Grain Goodness: Substitute brown rice for instant rice. This adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture, but do adjust cooking time to ensure the rice is perfectly tender. Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken entirely and enhance the dish with extra beans or vibrant vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. It’s a hearty twist that feels just as comforting! Add a Kick: Mix in jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you crave more heat. This can transform the experience into a fiery feast with each bite! Cheesy Goodness: Swap Colby-Jack cheese for pepper jack for an extra kick of spice. The creamy texture combined with the heat makes it utterly delicious—who could resist? Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right before serving for a burst of freshness. It not only enhances the flavor but also brightens the dish visually. Extra Crunch: Top with crushed tortilla chips or crunchy fried onions for a delightful texture contrast. The added crunch makes your meal more exciting and satisfying! Flavorful Broth: Use a mix of chicken broth and your favorite beer or lime juice for cooking. This gives a unique and complex flavor profile to your Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls, making them even more memorable! No matter how you choose to customize, let your culinary creativity shine while preparing this comforting meal! For a delicious protein-packed option, consider trying these Garlic Butter Chicken or add some zest with Korean Chicken Bao. Enjoy experimenting! Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls Keep it Tender: Shred the chicken while keeping the lid closed to trap heat and moisture, ensuring perfect texture for your Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls. Rice Matters: Use instant rice for quick cooking; do not substitute with regular rice without adjusting the liquid and cooking time. Flavor Balance: Monitor salt levels if you’re using regular chicken broth; consider low-sodium options to prevent overpowering flavors. Customize Wisely: Mix and match toppings according to personal taste; avoid overly wet ingredients that may make the dish soggy. Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days, making them a great meal prep option! What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls As you prepare to indulge in your wonderfully comforting Chicken Burrito Bowls, think about how easily you can elevate the meal experience with delicious and thoughtful pairings. Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping and adding a satisfying crunch, these chips complement the soft textures of your burrito bowls. Fresh Guacamole: Creamy, zesty, and packed with avocado goodness, this dip adds a refreshing element that balances the flavors perfectly. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad of corn, lime, and spices puts a delightful twist on traditional flavors, bringing brightness to your meal. Pico de Gallo: Fresh and zesty, this salsa of diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds a punch of flavor, enhancing the dish’s overall taste. Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and fragrant, this rice option can be served alongside your burrito bowls for a flavor-enhancing side. Homemade Margaritas: A refreshing drink option, these can perfectly balance the spice of the burrito bowls and provide a festive touch to your meal. Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For dessert, these sweet treats offer a crispy exterior and soft, doughy interior, rounding off the meal with a perfect sweet touch. Make Ahead Options These Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables, measure the spices, and layer the ingredients (like the chicken, beans, and salsa) in the slow cooker insert up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld. When you’re ready to cook, simply set the slow cooker on low for 4 hours. To maintain quality, ensure everything is tightly covered in the fridge to prevent any drying out. Your delicious burrito bowls will be just as tasty, ready to enjoy with your favorite toppings! Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting chicken, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are fresh and have a nice pink color. Avoid any that appear discolored or have a foul odor. If possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken for better flavor and quality! What if I have leftovers? How should I store them? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. Make sure to let them cool down completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Reheating can be done gently in the microwave or on the stove, with a splash of broth to keep it moist. Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls? Yes, you can freeze them! Place any remaining Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm through in the microwave or on the stove. It’s a great meal prep option for busy days ahead! What can I do if the rice isn’t fully cooked? If you find that the rice isn’t cooked to your liking after the additional 45 minutes, simply add a bit more liquid—water or broth—and cover to cook for another 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally and check until you achieve the desired tenderness. You’ve got this! Any dietary considerations for this recipe? Very! For gluten-free options, ensure that your salsa and broth are certified gluten-free. If you have any dairy allergies, you can replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative, or simply omit it. The toppings are completely customizable, so feel free to make it suit your needs! Savory Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls for Cozy Nights Enjoy heartwarming Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls with tender chicken, zesty salsa, and customizable toppings, perfect for cozy nights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 4 hours hrsRice Cooking Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 55 minutes mins Servings: 6 bowlsCourse: ChickenCuisine: MexicanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Base2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts Main protein source, provides tenderness after cooking.1 medium yellow onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth; can substitute with red onion.1 16 oz jar salsa Choose mild, medium, or hot based on heat preference.1 15 oz can black beans Adds protein and fiber; kidney beans can be an alternative.1 10 oz can diced tomatoes Adds moisture and acidity; fresh tomatoes can work if in season.1 4 oz can diced green chiles Enhances flavor; jalapeños can be used for more spice.2 cups low-sodium chicken broth Keeps everything moist; swap with vegetable broth for vegetarian option.For the Seasoning1 tsp chipotle chile powder or regular chile powder Imparts smokiness and spice.1 tsp paprika1 tsp ground oregano1 tsp table salt1 tsp finely ground black pepper Essential spices that elevate the dish.For the Rice2 cups instant rice (such as Minute Rice) Quickly absorbs moisture; do not substitute with regular rice.For the Topping8 oz shredded Colby-Jack cheese Adds creamy texture; cheddar or dairy-free alternative can be used.1 optional garnishes (sour cream, olives, avocado, hot sauce, cilantro, green onion) Customize to elevate your bowls. Equipment slow cooker Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPlace 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of a 6-7 quart slow cooker. Evenly distribute 1 medium diced yellow onion over the chicken, then pour in 1 jar of salsa.Add 1 can of black beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of diced green chiles, and 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Season with 1 tsp each of chipotle chile powder, paprika, ground oregano, table salt, and finely ground black pepper. Stir to combine.Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 4 hours.Remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.Stir in 2 cups of instant rice. Cover and cook for an additional 45 minutes.Sprinkle 8 oz of shredded Colby-Jack cheese over the top and let it sit for 3-5 minutes until melted.Serve in bowls with your choice of toppings. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesKeep shredded chicken warm by keeping the lid closed. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
