Mediterranean Cilantro Lime Chicken Burrito Bowls with Avocado Cottage Dressing
These Mediterranean Cilantro Lime Chicken Burrito Bowls combine the freshness of the Mediterranean diet with the zesty comfort of a burrito bowl. Juicy chicken, tender rice, colorful veggies, and a creamy avocado-cottage cheese dressing come together in a bright, satisfying bowl. It’s protein-packed, nutrient-rich, and ready in no time — perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Bowls:
2 cups warm cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
2 cups cooked chicken, cubed (grilled, roasted, or leftover)
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or roasted)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
For the Avocado Cottage Dressing:
1 ripe avocado
1 cup cottage cheese
Juice and zest of 1 lime
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
1 tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Base:
Start with warm, cooked rice as the base of each bowl. You can use white, brown, or even quinoa for a Mediterranean twist.
Add the Protein and Veggies:
Divide chicken, black beans, corn, and cherry tomatoes evenly among the bowls.
Make the Dressing:
In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, cottage cheese, lime juice and zest, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning or add a splash of water for a thinner consistency.
Assemble the Bowls:
Drizzle the Avocado Cottage Dressing generously over each bowl.
Garnish and Serve:
Top with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Serve immediately while the rice and chicken are warm for the best flavor.
Tips & Variations
Use Any Grain You Like
These bowls work with almost any grain base — try quinoa, farro, couscous, or bulgur for a more Mediterranean feel.
For a lighter version, use cauliflower rice or mixed greens as the base.
Boost the Flavor of the Chicken
If you’re starting with plain chicken, toss it in olive oil, lime juice, cumin, and garlic powder before heating to give it a quick flavor lift.
Grilled chicken adds a smoky depth that balances beautifully with the creamy dressing.
Customize the Dressing Texture
For a thicker dip-style dressing, keep it as-is.
For a pourable sauce, add 1–2 tablespoons of water or olive oil while blending.
You can also use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a tangier taste.
Add More Mediterranean Touches
Mix in kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts for extra layers of flavor.
Sprinkle feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese on top for a salty contrast.
Spice It Up (Optional)
Add a pinch of smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, or a few drops of hot sauce to the dressing for a gentle kick.
If you like smoky-sweet notes, drizzle a little honey or balsamic glaze before serving.
Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips
These bowls hold up well for 3–4 days in the fridge — just store the dressing separately and drizzle it right before serving.
The dressing can be made ahead and kept refrigerated in an airtight jar for up to 3 days.
For lunches, layer the rice and chicken at the bottom and add fresh toppings on top to keep them crisp.
Serving Ideas
Serve the bowls warm, or enjoy them cold as a refreshing lunch.
Add a handful of arugula or spinach for a more salad-style version.
Pair with pita bread or grilled flatbread for a heartier meal.
Q&A
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for the dressing?
Yes. Greek yogurt works great if you prefer a tangier, smoother dressing. It’ll still be creamy but slightly lighter in texture.
Q: What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this recipe?
Grilled or pan-seared chicken adds the best flavor. You can also use rotisserie chicken or leftovers to save time. Just reheat gently before assembling the bowls.
Q: Can I make this bowl vegetarian?
Definitely. Skip the chicken and add extra beans, roasted chickpeas, or grilled halloumi for protein. It still pairs beautifully with the avocado cottage dressing.
Q: Is the dressing meant to be served cold or warm?
Serve it cold or room temperature for the best texture and freshness. It balances nicely with the warm rice and chicken.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Swap cottage cheese with silken tofu or dairy-free Greek yogurt, and you’ll still get a creamy, rich dressing.
Nutrition
(Approx. per serving – serves 4)
Calories: ~440
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 420mg
(Values may vary slightly depending on rice type, chicken seasoning, and dressing consistency.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Cilantro Lime Chicken Burrito Bowl is a perfect blend of bright, creamy, and hearty flavors. The avocado cottage cheese dressing ties everything together — rich yet refreshing — while the chicken, beans, and rice make it a balanced, filling meal.
It’s a great recipe for meal prep, family dinners, or even a quick lunch that feels like something special. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s both satisfying and light, proving that wholesome food doesn’t need to be complicated.