Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl – 25min Breakfast Protein-Packed

You know those mornings when you want something tasty, filling, and not like every sad breakfast sandwich on the planet? I got you. This Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl gives you big breakfast vibes in just 25 minutes, and it packs a serious protein punch so you stay full until lunch without crashing.

I started making this when I wanted the flavors of a burrito without the carb hangover. I tweak it sometimes, and honestly, it rescues my rushed mornings. If you want a similar low-carb swap, check out this low-carb casserole idea for dinner — it’s cozy and equally satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast: Ready in about 25 minutes, ideal for busy mornings.
• Low carb: Uses cauliflower rice instead of tortillas or real rice.
• Protein-packed: Ground chicken (or beef/turkey/plant-based) gives a solid protein boost.
• Customizable: Swap proteins and toppings without guilt.
• Meal-prep friendly: Holds up well in the fridge for a few days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground chicken (or beef, turkey, or plant-based protein)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 3 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
• 4 cups romaine lettuce (chopped)
• 1 large avocado (diced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 0.5 cup red onion (finely diced)
• 1 cup Mexican cheese blend (shredded)
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 0.5 cup sugar-free salsa
• 0.25 cup full-fat sour cream
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 whole jalapeño (minced, adjust to taste)

Ingredient and Method

I keep the ingredients simple and the method straightforward so you can get the bowl on the table fast. The goal: bold flavor, minimal fuss.

How to Make (Step-by-Step)

Brown the Meat

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks for 5–6 minutes until no pink remains and it lightly browns. Use a spatula to keep it shreddy and even.
2. Season and finish the protein

Add Taco Seasoning

1. Drain any excess fat, then add the taco seasoning packet with 2–3 tablespoons of water. Stir constantly for 2 minutes until the meat gets evenly coated and the liquid mostly evaporates. I smell the difference here — yes please.
2. Let it rest

Rest Briefly

1. Remove the seasoned protein from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes while you prep other parts. That pause lets the flavors settle and prevents your lettuce from turning limp when you assemble.
2. Prepare the cauliflower rice

Heat the Cauliflower Rice

1. If using frozen cauliflower rice, microwave for 4–5 minutes until heated through. For fresh cauliflower rice, heat a dry skillet over medium heat and sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender but firm. Let it cool slightly so it doesn’t wilt the lettuce.
2. Assemble the bowls

Build Your Bowl

1. Layer the chopped romaine in serving bowls, add a portion of cauliflower rice alongside, then top with the seasoned protein, diced avocado, tomatoes, red onion, cheese, and cilantro.
2. Finish with sauces and zing

Final Touches

1. Finish each bowl with dollops of sour cream, a generous spoonful of salsa, minced jalapeño to taste, and a fresh squeeze of lime juice just before serving. I always add an extra lime wedge because I’m dramatic about citrus.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

• Don’t overcook cauliflower rice. Keep some texture so the bowl doesn’t go mushy.
• Use full-fat sour cream. It tastes richer and keeps you satisfied longer.
• Toast the taco seasoning. Stir it with the meat for the last minute so the spices bloom.
• Prep toppings ahead. Chop avocado and tomatoes in the morning or the night before for faster assembly.
• Adjust heat gradually. Try jalapeño first; add more if you want a bigger kick.
• Make it vegetarian. Swap in crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat substitute seasoned the same way.

Fun Variations & Topping Ideas

Variations:

• Add a cup of charred corn if you don’t mind extra carbs.
• Crumble cooked breakfast sausage in place of ground chicken for a greasy, glorious option.
• Use the seasoned protein as a base for a loaded potato soup — yes, it works and yes, it’s delicious.

Toppings:

• Bacon bits for crunch and salt.
• Extra cheddar if you love melty cheese.
• Green onions for a fresh bite.
• Pickled jalapeños for tang and heat.
• Hot sauce for the unapologetically spicy crowd.

Storing and Reheating

Store the components separately for best texture. Keep the protein and cauliflower rice in sealed containers for up to 4 days. Dice avocado right before eating to avoid browning, unless you toss it in lime juice. To reheat: microwave protein and cauliflower rice together for 60–90 seconds until warm, then assemble over fresh romaine. If you prefer, reheat in a skillet for a fresher texture. I never refrigerate assembled bowls because soggy lettuce makes me sad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use beef or turkey instead of chicken?

Yes. I often swap ground turkey or beef depending on what I’m craving. The cooking time stays the same. Use the same taco seasoning for a comparable flavor profile.

Is cauliflower rice really necessary?

Nope. You can use shredded cabbage, zucchini noodles, or a small portion of regular rice if you’re not strictly low-carb. Cauliflower rice keeps carbs low and adds a mild, rice-like base.

Can I meal prep these for the week?

Absolutely. Prep the protein and cauliflower rice in bulk, chop toppings ahead, and assemble daily. The protein stays juicy and reheats well.

How spicy does this get?

You control the heat. Use the jalapeño and hot sauce sparingly if you’re heat-sensitive. I usually stick to one jalapeño and a splash of hot sauce for a lively but manageable kick.

Conclusion

This Easy Low Carb Burrito Bowl gives you a fast, protein-packed breakfast that tastes like it took hours to make but actually fits into your hectic morning. You get bold seasoning, fresh toppings, and a bowl that stays satisfying without extra carbs. Try different proteins and toppings until you land on your personal favorite — I did, and now I feel oddly proud every time I squeeze lime on it. If you want another breakfast bowl idea with a slightly different vibe, check out this Easy Breakfast Burrito Bowl Recipe – Bowls Are The New Plates.

Leave a comment and a rating if you try this — I read every one and I’m not above bragging that I told you so when it becomes your new go-to.