Copycat Chipotle Bowl

Some days feel like a marathon I didn’t sign up for — and dinner still has to happen. I found myself craving the fresh, smoky flavors of a copycat Chipotle bowl but wanted to whip it up at home without the wait or the expense. This recipe, inspired by those bold, satisfying bowls, comes together quickly with wholesome ingredients and a homemade chipotle dressing that brings it all to life. Courtney, the passionate food blogger behind this site, loves recipes that are family-friendly and simple — this one checks both boxes beautifully. If you like the recipe, please share it!

The Copycat Chipotle Bowl is a versatile dish that combines smoky, spicy, and fresh elements all in one feel-good meal. Whether you’re cooking a Vegan Chipotle Bowl, a Steak Chipotle Bowl Recipe, or even a Chipotle Shrimp Bowl, this at home Chipotle Bowl Recipe is perfect. It’s also a Healthy Chipotle Bowl option that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy and customizable. Ready for some Chipotle Bowl ideas you can make anytime? Let’s dive in!

What is Copycat Chipotle Bowl?

A Copycat Chipotle Bowl is a homemade take on the iconic chain’s signature bowl, mixing seasoned protein, rice, beans, fresh vegetables, and a smoky chipotle dressing. It’s a flavorful meal that’s balanced, packed with nutrients, and easy to make in your own kitchen. Variations include vegan-friendly, steak-based, and shrimp options, making it a versatile recipe for many tastes and dietary needs. This DIY Chipotle Bowl lets you control the ingredients while delivering all that smoky, zesty charm you love.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked brown rice or white rice
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (red or green)
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup cooked protein: grilled steak strips, chipotle shrimp, or seasoned tofu (for Vegan Chipotle Bowl)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from chipotle peppers
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Medium saucepan
  • Skillet or grill pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Spoon or whisk for dressing
  • Serving bowls

How to Make Copycat Chipotle Bowl

Step 1:

Cook the rice according to package instructions and keep warm.

Step 2:

If using steak or shrimp, season and cook them in a skillet or grill pan until done. For tofu, season and pan-fry until crispy.

Step 3:

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, adobo sauce, olive oil, honey, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper to make the chipotle dressing.

Step 4:

In serving bowls, layer the rice, black beans, corn, bell peppers, onion, and lettuce.

Step 5:

Add your choice of protein on top.

Step 6:

Drizzle generously with the chipotle copycat dressing.

Step 7:

Garnish with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and a wedge of lime.

Step 8:

Serve immediately for a fresh and satisfying meal.

Some Tips!

  • Use leftover cooked rice and proteins to make this an easy weeknight meal.
  • Adjust the chipotle in the dressing to control the heat level.
  • Try adding pickled jalapeños or extra fresh lime juice for a bright kick.
  • For a Vegan Chipotle Bowl, swap Greek yogurt for vegan sour cream and use tofu or black beans as protein.
  • Customize your bowl with your favorite veggies or add a sprinkle of shredded cheese if you like.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Rice and beans keep well for up to 4 days, cooked proteins for 2–3 days, and fresh veggies are best used within 1–2 days. Keep the Chipotle dressing in its own container and add it just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What to Eat With

Pair this Copycat Chipotle Bowl with other home-cooked favorites for a diverse meal spread. It goes wonderfully alongside Creamy Butter Beans as a hearty companion, or a comforting bowl of Copycat Frisch’s Vegetable Soup. For something special, a Spicy Margarita offers a savory balance to your Chipotle feast, making your dinner table buzz with variety and flavor.

FAQ

Can I make a Vegan Chipotle Bowl with this recipe?

Absolutely! Use tofu or extra black beans as your protein, and swap Greek yogurt with vegan sour cream for the dressing.

How long does the Chipotle copycat dressing keep?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken or beef?

Yes, pre-cooked or leftover proteins work great to speed up meal prep.

Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spice can be adjusted by the amount of chipotle adobo sauce in the dressing. Start small and add more as you like.

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Prepare components ahead and assemble when ready to eat to keep veggies fresh and crunchy.

Conclusion

This Copycat Chipotle Bowl brings the smoky, fresh, and zesty flavors of the restaurant right into your kitchen. Whether you prefer a Vegan Chipotle Bowl, a hearty Steak Chipotle Bowl Recipe, or love the idea of a Chipotle Shrimp Bowl, this healthy, easy Chipotle bowl recipe is versatile and family-friendly. Give this homemade Chipotle bowl a try and enjoy a delicious meal that feels like a treat and fuels your day with simple, wholesome ingredients.

Copycat Chipotle Bowl

Recipe by SarahCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

2

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

520

kcal
Total time

35

minutes

Make this easy Copycat Chipotle Bowl at home with rice, beans, veggies, protein, and creamy chipotle dressing. A healthy, customizable meal ready in 35 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked brown or white rice
    1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
    ½ cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
    ½ cup chopped bell peppers
    ½ small red onion, finely chopped
    ½ cup chopped romaine lettuce
    ½ avocado, sliced
    1 cup cooked protein (grilled steak, shrimp, chicken, or seasoned tofu)
    ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
    1 lime, cut into wedges
    Chipotle Dressing
    ¼ cup Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream
    1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from chipotle peppers)
    1 tablespoon olive oil
    1 teaspoon honey or agave
    1 teaspoon lime juice
    ½ teaspoon cumin

Directions

  • Prepare the base: Cook rice according to package directions and warm the beans and corn if desired.
  • Cook the protein: Season and cook steak, shrimp, chicken, or tofu in a skillet or grill pan until fully cooked.
  • Make the dressing: Whisk together all chipotle dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
  • Assemble the bowls: Layer rice, beans, veggies, and protein in serving bowls. Drizzle with dressing, then top with avocado, cilantro, and lime.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of adobo sauce to control spice level.
    For a Vegan Chipotle Bowl, use tofu or beans and vegan sour cream.
    Great for meal prep—store ingredients separately for best freshness.
    Add extras like shredded cheese, fajita veggies, or pico de gallo if desired.
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Sarah

My name is Sarah. The short version about the Wine and Mommy Time mommy: I have a husband, two kids, and an 80 pound Pitbull who thinks he’s a lap dog.