Recreating my go-to Chipotle order 🌶️✨

Now it might not be an exact dupe, but it sure did hit the spot! And makes plenty of extra leftovers for easy work lunches (and saves you that $20 you know you’d be dropping at chipotle 😉)

Rice 🍚✨

🌾 1 cup brown or white rice

💧 2 cups water

🧈 1 tbsp butter

🌿 1/2 cup cilantro

🍃 1 lime

🧂 Salt, pepper to taste

1. Prep: Finely chop cilantro, zest lime, and slice lime once zested to be juiced.

2. Combine all ingredients above, as well as lime zest/juice into pot, bring to boil, then once boiling bring down to low heat and cover.

3. Leave covered 25min or until rice is cooked.

Chicken/Fajita Veggies 🌶️

🐓 1 pack chicken breasts

🫑 2-3 bell peppers

🧅 1 red onion

🌿 1/2 cup cilantro

🍃 1 lime

🧂 Salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, olive oil to taste

1. Prep: Cut peppers and onions into thin strips, finely chop cilantro, zest lime & slice for juice later, cut chicken into bite sized pieces.

2. Heat drizzle of olive oil over medium high heat. Once hot, add in peppers and onions. Season with salt & pepper, and cook 7-8min until cooked, and set aside.

3. In same pan add chicken, cilantro, and seasoning. Cook until chicken is finished & has good color (here is where I go amiss with it not being exactly chipotle chicken, as I don’t have their marinade or ability to get that blackened crispiness)

4. Assemble rice bowl & top with avocados, guac, or cheese!

Enjoy 🌶️✨

#lemon8partner #chipotleorder #chipotlebowldupe #chipotlebowl #ricebowl #restuarantdupe #chipotledupe #chipotlerice #dinnerideas #chipotlehack

2024/1/25 Edited to

... Read moreAs a huge fan of Chipotle, I used to find myself dropping way too much money on their delicious bowls. That's why I became obsessed with creating my own version at home – a true 'Chipotle dupe' that not only satisfies my cravings but also saves a significant amount from my budget! After many trials, I’ve refined my process for these 'Chipotle Rice Bowls' to make them just as satisfying, if not more so, than the restaurant's. One of the biggest advantages of making your own 'Chipotle chicken bowl white rice fajita veggies' at home is the sheer level of customization. While the original recipe covers the staples like cilantro-lime rice, seasoned chicken, and vibrant fajita veggies, you can truly "build your own Chipotle" experience. For example, if you're looking for a 'high protein high fiber bowl Chipotle,' you can easily swap the white rice for brown rice or even a cauliflower rice base. I often add a can of seasoned black beans or pinto beans (or both!) to boost the fiber and make it even more filling. For extra protein, sometimes I’ll add a sprinkle of cotija cheese or even some extra grilled steak if I have it on hand, making it a truly versatile 'burrito bowl' experience. Beyond the main components, don't forget the toppings that make a Chipotle bowl truly special. While the original recipe suggests avocado or guacamole, I always recommend going all out! A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt (for a healthier twist), a sprinkle of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and a fresh corn salsa can elevate your homemade bowl to the next level. If you're a fan of the 'Chipotle salad bowl chicken fajita veggies,' just serve your chicken and veggies over a bed of crisp romaine lettuce instead of rice, and add a zesty lime vinaigrette – it’s a game-changer for a lighter meal! Making these bowls at home is also fantastic for meal prepping. After you "make the rice" and "prep the chicken/veggies," I find it super easy to portion everything into individual containers. This way, you have grab-and-go lunches for the entire week, preventing those impulse Chipotle runs. When I'm cooking the chicken, I make sure to get a good char on it by not overcrowding the pan – it really helps mimic that smoky flavor. And don't rush "cooking veggies"; let them caramelize slightly for deeper flavor. Finally, when it's time to "assemble & enjoy!" I like to warm up the chicken and veggies separately and then combine everything so it’s perfectly fresh. This homemade method truly allows you to enjoy your favorite flavors while keeping your wallet happy!