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Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl – Easy, Flavor-Packed, and Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for a meal that’s comforting, colorful, and incredibly easy to prepare, this Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl is exactly what you need. It combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with bold Mexican-inspired flavors, hearty rice, and fresh toppings — all in one customizable bowl that everyone can enjoy. What makes this recipe stand out is the slow cooker method. With minimal prep, the chicken gently cooks in salsa, spices, and broth, becoming juicy, flavorful, and easy to shred. Once cooked, it forms the perfect base for a burrito bowl that feels just as satisfying as takeout, but far more wholesome and homemade. This chicken burrito bowl is ideal for: Busy weeknights Meal prep for the week Family-style dinners Healthy, balanced lunches It’s flexible, filling, and packed with bold flavors and fresh textures. Whether you serve it warm right away or portion it out for the week, this recipe is a true kitchen lifesaver.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 bowls
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Prepare and measure all ingredients before starting.
Protein
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
Grains
  • 4 cups cooked rice white or brown
Canned & Frozen
  • 16 oz canned black beans low sodium, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups frozen sweet corn
Liquids
  • ½ cup chicken broth
Sauces & Condiments
  • 16 oz chunky salsa
  • ⅓ cup cilantro lime dressing
Fresh Ingredients
  • 3 small avocados sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 lime cut into wedges
Spices
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
Ingredient Notes:
  • Salsa provides both moisture and seasoning for the chicken.
  • Cilantro lime dressing adds a creamy zesty finish without heaviness.

Equipment

  • To prepare this slow cooker chicken burrito bowl, you’ll need:
  • Slow cooker (crockpot)
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Forks (for shredding chicken)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Serving bowls
  • Tip: A 5–6 quart slow cooker works best for even cooking.

Method
 

  1. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly cooked slow cooker chicken burrito bowl.
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
  1. Lightly grease the slow cooker if needed.
  2. Place chicken breasts evenly at the bottom.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
  1. Sprinkle chicken evenly with:
  2. Chili powder
  3. Smoked paprika
  4. Ground cumin
Step 3: Add Liquids and Salsa
  1. Pour chicken broth over the chicken.
  2. Add chunky salsa on top.
  3. Do not stir yet.
Step 4: Slow Cook
  1. Cover and cook:
  2. Low: 6–7 hours
  3. High: 3–4 hours
  4. Chicken should be tender and easy to shred.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
  1. Remove chicken and shred using two forks.
  2. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
  3. Stir gently to coat in the sauce.
Step 6: Add Beans and Corn
  1. Add black beans and frozen corn.
  2. Stir to combine.
  3. Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes, until heated through.
Step 7: Finish with Dressing
  1. Stir in cilantro lime dressing.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 8: Assemble the Bowls
  1. Add cooked rice to bowls.
  2. Top with chicken mixture.
  3. Add avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store chicken mixture and rice separately in airtight containers
Refrigerate for up to 4 days
Freezing
Freeze chicken mixture (without avocado) for up to 2 months
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warm
Add fresh toppings after reheating
Tip: Always add avocado and lime fresh for best flavor.
🥄 Variations
Make this chicken burrito bowl your own with these ideas:
Spicy Burrito Bowl
Add extra chili powder or hot sauce
Low-Carb Option
Replace rice with cauliflower rice
Extra Veggie Bowl
Add bell peppers or zucchini
Creamy Bowl
Add extra cilantro lime dressing
Tex-Mex Style
Add shredded cheese on top
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs work very well.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s balanced with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Can I cook this overnight?
It’s best cooked during the day to avoid overcooking.
Do I need to thaw frozen chicken first?
For safety, thaw chicken before slow cooking.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep.
What rice works best?
White or brown rice both work well.
Can I skip the dressing?
Yes, but it adds extra flavor.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and customizable.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, if your slow cooker is large enough.
What toppings go well with it?
Avocado, cilantro, and lime are classic choices.
🏁 Conclusion
This slow cooker chicken burrito bowl is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a bold, satisfying meal. With tender shredded chicken, hearty rice, and fresh toppings, it delivers everything you love about burrito bowls in an easy, homemade way.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, planning meals for the week, or just want something comforting and flavorful with minimal effort, this recipe is a guaranteed win. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.