Save This Chicken and Rice Bowl is a simple yet satisfying dish featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant seasonal vegetables, perfect for a wholesome meal any day of the week.
Save Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option, this bowl combines savory marinated chicken with the freshness of sautéed broccoli, peppers, and carrots for a truly balanced meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 450 g), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup (200 g) long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
- 2 cups (480 ml) water
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the chicken
- In a bowl, combine chicken with olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat and let marinate while you prepare the rice.
- Step 2: Prepare the rice
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (white rice) or 35 minutes (brown rice), until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Cook the chicken
- While the rice cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
- Step 4: Sauté the vegetables
- In the same skillet, add a splash of oil if needed. Sauté broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot for 4–5 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
- Step 5: Combine
- Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1–2 more minutes to heat through.
- Step 6: Assemble the bowls
- Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide among bowls. Top with the chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Step 7: Garnish and serve
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh herbs as desired. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Always rinse your rice until the water runs clear to ensure a fluffy texture. To maintain nutritional value and texture, cook the vegetables just until they are tender-crisp. This recipe provides approximately 390 calories and 30g of protein per serving.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as snap peas, zucchini, or spinach. For variation, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp. If you prefer more fiber, swap the long-grain white rice for brown rice, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
Serviervorschläge
For extra flavor, drizzle with your favorite sauce like teriyaki, sriracha, or a fresh squeeze of lime. This bowl is best served immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch.
Save Enjoy this simple yet satisfying Chicken and Rice Bowl as a reliable go-to meal that brings together fresh ingredients and savory flavors in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, brown rice works well in this bowl. Simply increase the cooking time to about 35 minutes and adjust the water ratio according to package instructions.
- → What other vegetables can I add?
Snap peas, zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or snow peas all work beautifully. Use whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand for variety.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store the cooked chicken, rice, and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before assembling.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. Portion into individual containers and refrigerate. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight.
- → What sauces work well with this bowl?
Teriyaki, sriracha, soy-ginger, or a simple squeeze of fresh lime juice all complement the flavors beautifully. Add your favorite sauce just before serving.
- → Can I use a different protein?
Definitely. Shrimp, tofu, or even thinly sliced beef work great with this same preparation. Adjust cooking times accordingly for your chosen protein.