Let’s Eat
Everyone is tired of the inconsistency at Chipotle. So I decided to make our own bowls for dinner last night and they did not disappoint. Add as many of the fixings as you like. The key here is the Trader Joe’s Birria. For a family of four, you’ll need two packs. Costco also has their rotisserie chicken already pulled that you can season, or they have packs of carnitas.
I used the Trader Joe’s Veggie Hash instead of fajita veggies and seasoned those with a little salt and pepper and their Citrusy Garlic seasoning - go get it and stock up because you know how TJ’s likes to rotate things.
For the rice, Costco also has cilantro lime rice you can buy. We ran out, so I used Rice a Roni cheddar rice and it worked perfectly.
Top with guac, sour cream and salsa of choice and you’re all set.
Family loved it and you will have left overs.
Okay, let's be real – who hasn't been disappointed by a Chipotle order lately? The inconsistency, the shrinking portions, and the rising cost just pushed me to my limit! That's why I decided it was time to take matters into my own hands and recreate those beloved Chipotle-style burrito bowls right in my kitchen. And let me tell you, it's truly easier to make than you think and tastes even better because you control every delicious detail! My secret weapon for that authentic flavor? Trader Joe's Birria. Seriously, if you haven't tried it, run, don't walk! It’s perfectly seasoned and shreds beautifully, making it the star of these bowls. For a family of four, two packs are ideal. But if birria isn't your thing, or you want to mix it up, Costco's already-pulled rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. A quick season with some chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, and you’ve got a flavorful alternative. I’ve also used their carnitas packs, which are super tender once heated through. Now, for the veggies! The original recipe mentions Trader Joe's Veggie Hash, which is brilliant. But don't stop there! If you want to elevate your fajita game without the fuss, frozen bell pepper and onion mixes work wonders. Just sauté them with a splash of olive oil and that amazing TJ's Citrusy Garlic seasoning – seriously, stock up! Adding a squeeze of lime at the end brightens everything up. Sometimes I’ll even roast some sweet potatoes or corn for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Rice is another component where you can get creative. While Costco's cilantro lime rice is a dream, if you’re like me and sometimes run out (oops!), don’t fret. A simple hack is to cook your favorite white rice and then stir in fresh cilantro and a generous squeeze of lime juice. A pinch of salt and you're golden. I've even used brown rice for a healthier option, and it pairs perfectly. The beauty of these bowls lies in the toppings. Guacamole is non-negotiable, in my opinion! I love a good homemade guac, but store-bought is totally fine for convenience. Sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter twist), your favorite salsa (I’m a big fan of a good pico de gallo or a spicy salsa verde), and don’t forget the cheese! Shredded Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend adds that classic finish. For an extra kick, a dash of hot sauce or some pickled jalapeños are always welcome. What I love most about making these at home is the ability to customize. Everyone in my family gets exactly what they want, and there’s no disappointment. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective compared to takeout, and the leftovers are fantastic for lunches the next day. It’s truly a game-changer for busy weeknights, proving that delicious, satisfying meals don't have to be complicated. Give it a try – your taste buds and your wallet will thank you!
