• Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Follow these steps to whip up your splendid Qdoba chicken burrito bowl!

Step 1: Cook Your Rice

• Start by rinsing the rice in cold water to remove excess starch. This keeps it fluffy. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, salt, butter, and garlic powder. Stir once, cover, and let simmer on low heat until the rice absorbs the water and is tender. This will take about 15-20 minutes. Just keep an eye on it!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• While your rice is cooking, let’s turn our attention to the chicken. If using pre-cooked chicken, chop it into bite-sized pieces.
• If you need to cook it, grill or sauté seasoned chicken breasts until golden and cooked through. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes on the grill per side, depending on thickness. Slice and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Pico de Gallo

• Chop your tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro, and throw them together in a bowl. If you like a kick, add diced jalapeño. Pour in the lime juice and sprinkle salt, pepper, and cumin. Mix well and set aside. This can sit for a bit to let the flavors marry.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowl

• Grab a bowl and start with a base of rice. Next, add a generous serving of diced chicken on top. Scoop in the sweet corn and black beans. Layer on the shredded lettuce, followed by spoonfuls of pico de gallo. The vibrant colors should jump out at you!

Step 5: Add Optional Toppings

• Finally, get creative! Add some guacamole, a squeeze of fresh lime, or any grilled veggies you love. A little sprinkle of fresh cilantro can also lend a stunning visual and flavor accent.