The Healthy Chipotle Burrito Bowl: A Chiropractor-Approved Recipe

As a chiropractor in Sioux Falls, I spend my days making adjustments—aligning spines, easing tension, and helping people move better. But balance isn’t just about posture; it’s about what fuels your body too. If you’ve ever thought, “Man, I love Chipotle, but I wish it were a little healthier,” then this recipe is for you.

Much like a well-tuned spine, a good meal is all about structure: protein for strength, fiber for stability, and healthy fats for smooth movement. This high-protein, fiber-packed Chipotle-style burrito bowl is as satisfying as cracking that stubborn mid-back joint after a long week.

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Why This Burrito Bowl is a Nutritional Powerhouse

Think of your meals like a foundation for movement. Just like poor posture can lead to aches and pains, a diet lacking in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients can leave you sluggish and out of sync. This burrito bowl delivers:

• 45g of protein to build and repair muscle (like a solid frame for your body)

• 12g of fiber to keep digestion running smoothly (your body's natural alignment system)

• Healthy fats for sustained energy (the lubrication your joints—and brain—need!)

  
  

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Ingredients: Building Your Bowl Like a Chiropractic Plan

Cilantro Lime Rice (Your Base Support System)

• 1 cup jasmine or white rice

• 2 cups water

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Juice of 1 lime

• ¼ cup chopped cilantro

• ½ tsp salt

Black Beans (Your Stability and Core Strength)

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¼ cup water

Marinated Chicken Thighs (The Foundation of Strength)

• 1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 7oz can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp oregano

• 2 tsp salt

• 2-4 garlic cloves

• 3/4 cup of water

Hot Salsa (A Kick of Mobility and Flow)

• 3 tomatillos, husked and rinsed

• 2 dried arbol chiles (or 1 tsp crushed red pepper)

• 1 small garlic clove

• ¼ tsp salt

• Juice of ½ lime

Toppings (The Adjustments That Make It Perfect)

• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)

• ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)

• 1 avocado, mashed (or ½ cup guacamole)

  
  

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Step-by-Step Instructions: Aligning Your Ingredients

1. Cook Cilantro Lime Rice

Much like a solid spine supports movement, the right base is key.

1. Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

2. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add rice and salt, then cover and simmer for 15 minutes (or per package instructions).

3. Remove from heat, let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

4. Stir in olive oil, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.

2. Prepare Black Beans

These little powerhouses are like your core muscles—often overlooked but essential.

1. In a small pot, add beans, water, and seasonings.

2. Simmer over medium-low heat for 5 minutes. Set aside.

3. Marinate and Cook Chicken Thighs

Just as every spine needs the right adjustment, every protein needs the right marinade.

1. Mix olive oil, chipotle peppers, lime juice, and spices in a blender and blend

2. Add chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for deeper flavor).

3. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temp reaches 175°F. (Life Hack: Use an Air Fryer)

4. Rest for 5 minutes, then dice.

4. Make Hot Salsa

A fiery touch, like that post-adjustment energy boost.

1. Roast tomatillos in a dry pan over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until charred.

2. Blend tomatillos, arbol chiles, garlic, salt, and lime juice until smooth.

5. Assemble the Burrito Bowl

This is where the magic happens

1. Layer rice as the base.

2. Add black beans and chicken thighs on top.

3. Spoon over hot salsa.

4. Sprinkle with cheese.

5. Add sour cream and guacamole on the side.

   
   

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~620 kcal

• Protein: ~45g

• Carbs: ~52g

• Fat: ~28g

• Fiber: ~12g

  
  

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Eat Well, Move Well, Live Well

In my practice, I always say, “Movement is life.” But movement starts with fueling your body the right way. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, trying to maintain peak performance, or just wanting to feel better, what you eat matters just as much as how you move.

This healthy Chipotle-style burrito bowl isn’t just tasty—it’s engineered for performance. High in protein and fiber, it keeps you satiated, energized, and aligned—just like a great adjustment.

So, next time you’re craving Chipotle but want to keep things balanced, give this recipe a try. And if your spine needs a little adjustment, well—you know who to call.

Have a wonderful week,

Dr. Lucas Marchand - MyChiro, LLC