Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl

This protein-packed low carb burrito bowl comes together in just 25 minutes and has quickly become my go-to breakfast for busy mornings. Seasoned ground chicken pairs with nutty cauliflower rice and a fresh hit of Tex-Mex toppings so every bowl is filling yet refreshingly light. Whether you are looking to cut carbs or just want a hearty start to your day this bowl hits the spot with every bite.

The first time I made this my family ravenously scooped up every bite. Now it is our Sunday brunch tradition and even my picky teenager requests extra avocado.

Ingredients

• Ground chicken or beef turkey or plant-based protein: Provides a filling and lean base Choose the freshest option for the best flavor
• Taco seasoning: Brings bold savory flavor Look for a seasoning with minimal additives or make your own for freshness
• Cauliflower rice: Keeps it low carb and adds a subtle nuttiness Use freshly riced for texture or frozen for convenience
• Romaine lettuce: Adds crunch and volume Opt for crisp deeply green leaves
• Avocado: Contributes creaminess and healthy fats Select one that yields slightly to gentle pressure
• Cherry tomatoes: Offer a juicy sweet pop Choose firm and glossy tomatoes for best taste
• Red onion: Lends a slight sharpness Finely dice for a balanced bite
• Mexican cheese blend: Melts beautifully and packs a punch of flavor Buy pre-shredded or shred your own for ultimate meltiness
• Fresh cilantro: Brightens every bowl with herby notes Use vibrant green leaves with no wilting
• Sugar-free salsa: Delivers tangy moisture and a kick Opt for one with real tomatoes and no added sugars
• Full-fat sour cream: Adds richness and balances the heat Use real sour cream instead of light for best texture
• Fresh lime juice: Wakes up all the flavors Squeeze from a plump heavy lime
• Jalapeño: Brings heat and a little crunch Mince with gloves if sensitive to spice

Instructions

Brown the Protein:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high Add your ground chicken Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until no longer pink and lightly browned This step gives depth and a delicious seared bite

Season the Meat:

Drain off any excess fat Sprinkle in the taco seasoning with 2 to 3 tablespoons of water Stir constantly for 2 minutes so every piece gets fragrant and coated Stop cooking when the liquid has just evaporated

Rest the Protein:

Transfer the seasoned meat off the heat Let it rest for 5 minutes while prepping the other components This brief rest infuses the flavor throughout and keeps the meat juicy

Prep the Cauliflower Rice:

If you are using frozen cauliflower rice microwave it for 4 to 5 minutes until steamy and hot For fresh cauliflower rice heat a dry skillet over medium and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until tender but still holding some bite Let it cool just enough so it does not wilt your lettuce later

Layer the Bowls:

Start with a generous handful of chopped romaine in each serving bowl Add a portion of cauliflower rice on the side Spoon on the seasoned chicken Top with avocado diced tomatoes red onion shredded cheese and fresh cilantro

Finish with Toppings:

Give each bowl a dollop of sour cream and a hefty spoonful of salsa Sprinkle on as much minced jalapeño as you like Squeeze a fresh lime wedge over the bowl right before eating for bright acidity

My absolute favorite part here is the avocado It melts perfectly into the warm protein and cool toppings I will never forget our first weekend making these together Everyone was gathered around with spoons digging deep to get every last bit

Storage Tips

Store each component in separate airtight containers in the fridge This keeps everything fresh for up to four days Only cut the avocado right before serving so it stays green and creamy If prepping in advance add the toppings just before eating for the best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground turkey or beef for chicken Go plant-based with crumbled tofu or your favorite meatless option Try pepper jack or cheddar instead of Mexican blend cheese Greek yogurt works in place of sour cream If you are not a fan of cilantro skip it or add scallions instead

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this bowl as a hearty breakfast or make it part of your meal prep lunch menu Add a poached or fried egg on top for even more protein If you like extra crunch toss in pepitas or roasted chickpeas It is also great with hot sauce and extra salsa on the side

Cultural Context

Burrito bowls put a fresh spin on classic Mexican flavors without the tortilla Rice bowls have become staples in American kitchens thanks to their adaptability This low carb version brings in all the Tex-Mex vibrancy but lets the vegetables shine

Seasonal Adaptations

Add roasted squash or corn in the fall for a deeper sweetness In summer toss in grilled zucchini or fresh corn off the cob Change up the herbs to use basil or parsley from your garden

Success Stories

One reader told me her picky kids now fight over who gets to build their own burrito bowl for dinner Another friend made a double batch for healthy work lunches and said it was the highlight of her week Even my mother in law calls to ask for this exact recipe before her Sunday bike rides

Freezer Meal Conversion

Double the ground chicken and seasoning then freeze half after cooking Lay flat in a zip top bag to save space Thaw overnight in the fridge Pair with freshly prepped vegetables for easy weeknight lunches Cauliflower rice and toppings are best added the day you serve

This bowl is light but hearty and easily customizable Use it for a quick breakfast or adaptable meal prep that never gets boring

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use beef or turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground beef or turkey work well and can be easily swapped in for chicken based on preference or dietary needs.

→ How can I prepare cauliflower rice for this bowl?

If using frozen, microwave until hot. For fresh cauliflower rice, sauté in a dry skillet until just tender, then let cool to avoid wilting the greens.

→ Are there dairy-free alternatives for the cheese and sour cream?

Absolutely. Substitute dairy cheese and sour cream with your favorite plant-based versions for a fully dairy-free bowl.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Keep each component in separate containers in the refrigerator. Add avocado and lime just before serving to preserve freshness.

→ What other toppings work well?

Try black beans, grilled corn, sliced radishes, or shredded lettuce for added crunch and color.