High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup snap peas; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Highlighted under: Warm Planning

When I first set out to create the High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl, I wanted a dish that could fuel my busy days without sacrificing flavor. I blended succulent chicken breast with perfectly seasoned rice and vibrant vegetables to create a meal that's not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. I love how this bowl is so versatile; you can easily customize the ingredients to fit your taste and dietary needs, making it a go-to for meal prep or a quick dinner during the week.

Created by

Questa Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:29:35.285Z

Creating the High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl was a delightful experience for me. As I chopped the fresh vegetables and carefully sliced the chicken, I realized how much I enjoy the process of assembling a meal that prioritizes both health and taste. The combination of protein-packed chicken and wholesome rice really fills you up, and I noticed that it can keep cravings at bay for hours!

One of my favorite aspects of this dish is its adaptability. You can swap the vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal favorites, which keeps the recipe exciting. The secret here is to perfectly season the chicken, ensuring it’s juicy and full of flavor. Trust me, you’ll love how simple yet fulfilling this bowl can be!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with protein to fuel your day
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy schedules
Customizable to fit your taste with different vegetables and sauces

Cooking the Perfect Rice

To achieve perfectly cooked brown rice for your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl, it's essential to follow the right water-to-rice ratio and cooking method. For two cups of cooked rice, start with one cup of dry brown rice and two cups of water. Bring the water to a rapid boil before reducing the heat to low, covering the pot to keep the steam in. This method traps moisture and cooks the rice evenly, resulting in tender grains that don’t clump together.

Keep an eye on the cooking time; brown rice typically takes about 35 minutes to cook. If the rice isn’t cooked through or seems too chewy, add a few extra tablespoons of water and continue cooking, checking every 5 minutes. Once done, remove it from heat, fluff with a fork, and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to allow residual steam to complete the cooking process. This step enhances the texture and ensures that the rice doesn’t become too sticky.

Enhancing the Chicken Flavor

The seasoning of the chicken breast is crucial for the overall flavor of the bowl. By seasoning the diced chicken with garlic powder, paprika, and a generous amount of salt and pepper, you create a savory base that complements the freshness of the vegetables. Be sure to coat the chicken evenly, allowing the flavors to penetrate as it cooks. I recommend using a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.

Cook the chicken over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This high cooking temperature helps to caramelize the surface, contributing to both flavor and texture. If you notice any residual liquid in the pan at the end of cooking, you can increase the heat slightly to reduce it, concentrating the flavors and achieving a nice golden sear on the chicken.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best features of this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl is its versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables based on availability or personal preference. For instance, if you prefer green beans over snap peas, feel free to make that substitution. Similarly, if broccoli isn’t in season, try zucchini or spinach for a fresh twist. Just make sure any substitutions maintain the colorful, crisp texture that makes this dish so appealing.

In addition, the sauce can be modified to suit your taste buds. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of sriracha or some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. Alternatively, a splash of lime juice can brighten the dish and enhance the freshness of the vegetables. These small tweaks can significantly change the taste profile while keeping your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this nourishing bowl:

Chicken and Rice Base

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables

1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas
1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Sauce

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Make sure to rinse the rice well before cooking for optimal texture!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl:

Cook the Rice

In a pot, combine 2 cups of water with 1 cup of brown rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 35 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked.

Add the Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced bell peppers, broccoli florets, and snap peas to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.

Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir to combine, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.

Assemble the Bowl

To serve, place a portion of the cooked brown rice at the bottom of a bowl, then top with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle green onions on top for garnish.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances the taste and tenderizes the meat.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to prepare components ahead of time for easy assembly throughout the week. You can cook the brown rice and chicken in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat the rice and chicken together in a microwave or skillet until piping hot.

If you're looking to freeze for later meals, allow the chicken and rice to cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers. You can freeze the chicken and rice separately or combined. For best results, consume frozen portions within three months. Reheat thoroughly in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl in deep bowls, layering the cooked rice first and then topping it with the chicken and vegetables mixture. This not only makes for a visually appealing presentation but also allows for easy mixing at the table. To enhance the dish further, consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of additional sesame oil for added richness.

To turn this bowl into a more filling meal, you could add avocado slices or a soft-boiled egg on top. Both options provide additional healthy fats and protein, enriching the overall nutritional profile while adding a creamy texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Dietary Variations

This recipe can be easily adapted to suit various dietary requirements. If you're following a gluten-free diet, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which provide a similar umami flavor without the gluten. Additionally, if you're seeking a low-carb option, consider replacing the brown rice with cauliflower rice, which can be sautéed quickly and takes on the delicious flavors from the chicken and sauce.

For vegetarian eaters, you can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, seasoned and cooked in the same manner. Both options provide a solid protein source and absorb flavors beautifully when sautéed. This flexibility invites a range of dietary adaptations while ensuring everyone can enjoy this nourishing meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of rice?

Yes, you can use white rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

→ Is this bowl suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute the chicken?

Yes, feel free to use tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ What sauces can I use instead of soy sauce?

You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor.