Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls

Whenever I think about cozy dinners that bring the family together, I can’t help but reminisce about the time I first made Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls. It was a chilly evening, and the aroma of spices filled my kitchen, making everyone feel instantly at home. I was experimenting with flavors and ingredients, aiming to create a dish that was both comforting and vibrant. The combination of tender chicken, creamy polenta, and zesty toppings came together beautifully, transforming an ordinary night into a special occasion. This dish has since become a staple in our household, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend feast. Every bite of these burrito bowls bursts with flavor, making it hard to believe how simple they are to prepare!

Ingredient List for Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls

Understanding the ingredients that come together to create the hearty Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls is essential. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. Start with tender chicken, add a tangy red enchilada sauce, and blend in spices to awaken the taste buds. The creamy polenta serves as a comforting base, while fresh vegetables and toppings add a delightful crunch and freshness.

• 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast or thighs – I enjoy using a mix of both for a juicy result.
• 2 cups red enchilada sauce – This gives the dish a rich, zesty flavor that ties everything together.
• 2 tablespoons chili powder – Adds depth and warmth.
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika – Infuses a lovely smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cumin – A classic seasoning that enhances the overall profile.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for balancing flavors.
• 1 teaspoon pepper – For a touch of heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne – Adjust according to your spice preference.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – For subtle background flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the fresh onions.
• 1 onion, sliced – Fresh onions add a delightful crunch.
• 1 red pepper, sliced – Sweet and colorful.
• 1 orange pepper, sliced – Adds even more color and sweetness.
• 1 1/2 cups cooked black beans – A hearty addition that boosts protein and fiber.
• 2 cups chicken broth – For cooking the polenta and adding moisture.
• 2 cups milk – Helps create a creamy polenta texture.
• 1 cup polenta – This is the base that provides a lovely, creamy texture.
• 4 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded – For melty goodness throughout.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – For seasoning the polenta.
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper – To taste.
• 2-4 tablespoons butter – For richness in the polenta.
• 1 avocado, mashed with a pinch of salt and pepper – A creamy topping that balances flavors.
• 4 ounces queso fresco cheese, crumbled – Adds tanginess and texture.
• fresh cilantro, chopped – Brightens the dish.
• crushed tortilla chips – For a satisfying crunch.

Recipe Steps for Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls

Creating Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls is a fun and rewarding process. Begin by preparing your ingredients, then follow these straightforward steps to bring it all together. You’ll love how the flavors meld during cooking!

1. Start by heating a very large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. When the skillet is hot but not smoking, introduce the sliced onion and both sliced red and orange peppers. Stir-fry them for about three to five minutes until they begin to soften. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Cover them with foil to keep warm.
2. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Once heated, add the chicken pieces and brown them thoroughly on both sides, which should take around three to four minutes per side. You’re looking for a lovely golden color to develop on the chicken.
3. After browning the chicken, pour in the red enchilada sauce, along with chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. This step will infuse the chicken with all those amazing flavors.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the chicken to cook in the sauce for about ten to fifteen minutes, until it’s cooked through and can be easily shredded with two forks. The sauce will thicken slightly during this time.
5. While the chicken simmers, prepare the polenta. In a separate medium-sized saucepan, combine the chicken broth and milk and bring it to a boil. Slowly whisk in the polenta, stirring frequently. Keep cooking until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy, which should take about fifteen to twenty minutes.
6. Once the polenta is thick and creamy, stir in the cheddar cheese and butter. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. If the polenta seems too thick, feel free to add a bit more milk or butter.
7. After the chicken has finished cooking, remove it from the heat. Shred the chicken right in the sauce using two forks. If the peppers have cooled too much, toss them back in with the chicken to warm them through.
8. Add the black beans to the skillet with the chicken and stir until warmed through. This adds a nutritious element.
9. To assemble the bowls, start by adding a generous serving of polenta to each bowl. Top it with the peppers and the saucy chicken. Finish off with a dollop of mashed avocado, crumbled queso fresco, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for crunch. Enjoy!

Change It Up

Every chef loves to put their own spin on a classic dish. Here are some suggestions to customize your Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before enjoying again.
• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and sauce mixture for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Spice level: Adjust the cayenne pepper and chili powder to your taste preference for spiciness.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Extra toppings: Add sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or lime wedges for additional layers of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls is an opportunity to be creative and make it visually appealing. Here are some ideas:

• Family Style: Serve all components separately and let everyone build their own bowl with their preferred toppings.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a simple green salad or chips and salsa for a well-rounded meal.
• Occasions: These bowls are perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or even Taco Tuesday celebrations!
• Seasonal Pairing: In winter, add roasted vegetables like squash or sweet potatoes for a hearty twist.
• Leftover Ideas: Use leftover components to create burritos or quesadillas for a quick lunch option.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of lime juice over the top just before serving brightens the flavors beautifully.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them a standout meal. Using simple ingredients, you can create a hearty dish that will satisfy everyone at the table. I encourage you to try making these bowls for your next family dinner or gathering. They’re sure to impress and become a favorite in your home!

Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls combine tender chicken, creamy polenta, and zesty toppings for an easy weeknight dinner. Bursting with flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6 servings

Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Large Pot
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast or thighs I used a mix of both.
• 2 cups red enchilada sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 red pepper, sliced
• 1 orange pepper, sliced
• 1 1/2 cups cooked black beans drained and rinsed if using canned.
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup polenta I used Bob's Red Mill.
• 4 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded plus more for topping if desired.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2-4 tablespoons butter your preference.
• 1 avocado, mashed with a pinch of salt and pepper (or some guacamole).
• 4 ounces queso fresco cheese, crumbled
• fresh cilantro, chopped
• crushed tortilla chips (forgot to add these the photos but you should do this!).

Instructions

 

• Heat a very large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. When the skillet is hot but not smoking, add the onions and red and orange peppers. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until they begin to soften. Remove and set aside, covering to keep warm.
• Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the chicken and brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, add the enchilada sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder. Bring to a boil.
• Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily.
• Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and milk to a boil. Slowly whisk in the polenta and cook until soft and thick, about 15-20 minutes. Stir in cheddar cheese and butter, seasoning to taste.
• Remove the chicken from heat, shred it in the sauce, and toss in the black beans to warm through.
• To assemble bowls, place a serving of polenta in each, topping with peppers and chicken. Finish with avocado, queso fresco, cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips.

Notes

No additional notes.

Keyword chicken burrito bowls, comfort food, easy dinner recipes, Mexican cuisine

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!