Pin Imagine transforming your everyday dinner into a fiesta of flavors while keeping the calories in check. This 400-Calorie Burrito Bowl does exactly that—bringing together the zesty brightness of lime, the freshness of cilantro, and the satisfaction of perfectly seasoned chicken without weighing you down. By swapping traditional rice for cauliflower, we've created a dish that's not just kind to your waistline but packed with nutrients and bold Mexican-inspired flavors.
Pin This burrito bowl represents the perfect balance between nutrition and satisfaction. The cauliflower rice base provides a light, grain-free alternative that soaks up the bright cilantro-lime flavors, while the perfectly seasoned chicken delivers lean protein. Topped with fresh vegetables and a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, it's a smarter way to enjoy Mexican-inspired cuisine without the calorie overload that often comes with restaurant versions.
Ingredients
- For the Cauliflower Rice: 1 1/2 cups (180 g) cauliflower florets, 1 teaspoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, pinch of salt and pepper
- For the Chicken: 3 oz (85 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, pinch of salt and pepper, 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
- For the Toppings: 1/4 cup (40 g) canned black beans (rinsed and drained), 1/4 cup (30 g) cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/8 cup (20 g) diced red onion, 1/4 medium avocado (sliced, about 30 g), 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt (2% or nonfat), 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves for garnish, lime wedge for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the cauliflower rice
- Pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until rice-sized pieces form.
- Step 2: Cook the cauliflower rice
- Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add cauliflower rice and cook, stirring often, for 3–4 minutes until just tender.
- Step 3: Season the cauliflower rice
- Stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 4: Season the chicken
- Season chicken breast with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 5: Cook the chicken
- Heat 1/2 teaspoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken breast for 3–4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest 2 minutes, then slice or dice.
- Step 6: Assemble the bowl
- Place cauliflower rice in a bowl. Top with chicken, black beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.
- Step 7: Add finishing touches
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt, sprinkle with extra cilantro, and serve with a lime wedge.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, don't overcook the cauliflower rice—it should be tender but still have a slight bite. If using a food processor for the cauliflower, pulse in short bursts to avoid turning it into a puree. The chicken cooks quickly due to its size, so keep a close eye on it to prevent it from drying out. For meal prep purposes, the cauliflower rice and chicken can be prepared up to two days ahead and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Make this recipe vegetarian by replacing the chicken with an extra 1/2 cup of black beans or 3 oz of grilled tofu seasoned with the same spices. For a dairy-free version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a dollop of dairy-free plain yogurt or guacamole. If spice is your preference, add a finely chopped jalapeño to the mix or incorporate a dash of hot sauce. For those who aren't counting calories quite as strictly, a sprinkle of reduced-fat cheddar or cotija cheese adds another layer of flavor.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this burrito bowl fresh and warm for the best experience. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of cucumber slices sprinkled with tajin seasoning or a small side salad dressed with lime juice and olive oil. If you're serving this for a casual gathering, set up a DIY burrito bowl bar where guests can assemble their own bowls with additional toppings like pico de gallo, corn salsa, or pickled red onions. This dish is best enjoyed immediately after assembly to maintain the varied textures.
Pin This 400-Calorie Burrito Bowl proves that healthy eating doesn't mean sacrificing the flavors you crave. By thoughtfully replacing higher-calorie ingredients with nutrient-dense alternatives, you can enjoy the vibrant taste of Mexican-inspired cuisine while supporting your wellness goals. It's a perfect example of how small, smart substitutions can create a satisfying meal that nourishes both body and soul—all while keeping the calorie count impressively low at under 400 calories per generous serving.
Recipe Questions
- → How do you prepare cauliflower rice?
Pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains, then cook briefly in olive oil until tender but not mushy.
- → What spices complement the chicken breast?
A simple blend of chili powder, ground cumin, and garlic powder with salt and pepper enhances the chicken's flavor without overpowering.
- → Can this bowl be made vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the chicken with extra black beans or grilled tofu to keep it hearty and protein-rich.
- → What toppings add freshness to this bowl?
Cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, creamy avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime add layers of fresh, bright flavors.
- → How can I add extra heat or richness?
Consider adding chopped jalapeño for spice or a sprinkle of cheese if your calorie goals allow for more indulgence.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Prepare cauliflower rice and cooked chicken ahead of time for an easy, quick-assembly meal later.