Moe’s Southwest Grill is a popular fast-casual restaurant chain known for its bold Tex-Mex flavors and customizable dishes. Among its most beloved offerings is the Moe’s Burrito Bowl—a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal packed with rice, beans, grilled meat, vegetables, and toppings, all without the tortilla wrap. This guide provides a step-by-step, restaurant-style Moe’s burrito bowl recipe that can be recreated at home using fresh and accessible ingredients.
What Is a Moe’s Burrito Bowl?
A burrito bowl is a deconstructed burrito served in a bowl instead of a tortilla. Moe’s version is highly customizable and typically includes the following core components:
- Cilantro-lime rice
- Seasoned beans (black or pinto)
- Choice of protein (chicken, steak, pork, tofu, etc.)
- Grilled or sautéed vegetables
- Toppings like pico de gallo, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole
- Fresh greens or shredded lettuce
- Signature sauces like Moe’s famous queso or chipotle ranch
Ingredients for a Moe’s-Style Burrito Bowl
Here’s a breakdown of essential ingredients for a classic Moe’s burrito bowl recipe:
1. Cilantro-Lime Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt to taste
2. Seasoned Black Beans
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
3. Grilled Chicken (or alternative protein)
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thigh
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- Juice of ½ lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Alternative Proteins: Steak, ground beef, pork carnitas, tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives can also be used.
4. Grilled Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper
5. Toppings
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Fresh pico de gallo (diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice)
- Shredded lettuce or romaine
- Guacamole or sliced avocado
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Moe’s-style queso (optional)
How to Make Moe’s Burrito Bowl at Home
Step 1: Cook the Cilantro-Lime Rice
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add rice and stir for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Add water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, add lime juice and chopped cilantro. Stir to combine.
Step 2: Prepare the Black Beans
- Heat a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add rinsed beans and seasonings (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper).
- Stir and cook for 5–7 minutes until heated through. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken (or Protein)
- Cut chicken into bite-sized strips.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, and spices. Add chicken and marinate for 15–30 minutes.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice or cube.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
- Slice peppers and onion.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add veggies and sauté for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp with slight char. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Assemble the Burrito Bowl
- Start with a base of cilantro-lime rice.
- Add a layer of black beans.
- Top with grilled chicken and sautéed vegetables.
- Add shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, cheese, guacamole, and sour cream.
- Drizzle with Moe’s queso or chipotle ranch if desired.
Tips for Customizing Your Bowl
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice or chopped lettuce.
- Vegetarian or Vegan: Use tofu, black beans, or plant-based protein. Skip cheese and sour cream or use vegan alternatives.
- Extra Crunch: Add crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions on top.
- Spicy Version: Include jalapeños, hot sauce, or Moe’s El Guapo hot salsa.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
Here’s an estimated breakdown for a standard serving with chicken:
- Calories: 650–750 kcal
- Protein: 35–40g
- Carbohydrates: 50–60g
- Fat: 25–30g
- Fiber: 8–10g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and ingredients used. Always refer to packaging or use a nutritional calculator for precise data.
Health Benefits of a Burrito Bowl
Burrito bowls can be a balanced meal when made with whole ingredients. Key benefits include:
- High Protein: Grilled meats or legumes provide muscle-building nutrients.
- Fiber-Rich: Beans, vegetables, and whole grains aid digestion.
- Customizable Calories: Easy to adjust for dietary goals—low-calorie, low-carb, or high-protein.
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vitamins A, C, and potassium from fresh vegetables and citrus.
According to the CDC, diets rich in vegetables and lean proteins can help reduce chronic disease risks, making dishes like the burrito bowl a smart meal choice.
Why Moe’s Burrito Bowl Is So Popular
The appeal of Moe’s burrito bowl lies in its:
- Customizability: Choose from a wide range of proteins, toppings, and sauces.
- Speed and Convenience: Ideal for meal prep or a quick family dinner.
- Flavor Fusion: Combines Tex-Mex spices with fresh, zesty toppings for a crave-worthy dish.
Moe’s popularity also stems from its focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, which cater to a broad audience looking for both taste and nutrition.
Conclusion
Recreating a Moe’s Burrito Bowl at home is simple, nutritious, and rewarding. By using fresh ingredients, bold seasonings, and your favorite toppings, it’s easy to build a flavorful, restaurant-style meal tailored to any diet or taste. Whether for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this homemade Moe’s burrito bowl recipe offers the same satisfying experience with more control over ingredients and nutrition.
