High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup shredded carrots; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Busy Ideas

I love a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein, and this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl hits the mark! Combining juicy chicken, fragrant rice, and colorful veggies, it's perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. The best part is how customizable it is – I often mix in whatever seasonal vegetables I have on hand, which keeps things fresh and exciting. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for a nourishing and satisfying option any day of the week.

Created by

Etta Langton

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:01:35.913Z

This recipe came to life during my quest for healthy yet filling meals. After experimenting with various grains and proteins, I discovered that the combination of tender chicken and fluffy brown rice was a winner. The addition of steamed broccoli and carrots not only makes this bowl vibrant but adds essential nutrients too.

I found that marinating the chicken briefly before cooking really enhances the flavor and tenderness. Using spices like garlic powder and paprika creates a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the vegetables. It’s a simple yet filling dish that never fails to satisfy my cravings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein to keep you full longer
Customizable with your favorite vegetables
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

Achieving perfectly cooked chicken is crucial to the success of this dish. When sautéing the marinated chicken, use medium heat to ensure that it cooks evenly. You want the chicken to start browning on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. If you find that it’s browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption, which usually takes about 7 to 10 minutes.

To add extra flavor, avoid overcrowding the skillet. If your pan feels too crowded, consider cooking the chicken in two batches. This prevents steaming and helps develop a nice, golden-brown crust that enhances the overall taste of the bowl. A well-cooked chicken provides a rich, savory base that complements the freshness of the vegetables.

Elevating the Veggie Experience

The role of vegetables in this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl cannot be overstated. Steaming the broccoli and carrots not only preserves their vibrant colors but also their nutrients. Aim for a texture that's tender yet still has a slight crunch; this usually takes about 5 minutes of steaming. Over-steaming can lead to mushy veggies, so keep a close watch and test for doneness before transferring them to the bowls.

Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. Snap peas, bell peppers, or even spinach can be great additions. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly; for instance, bell peppers can be added to the skillet when cooking the chicken if you prefer them sautéed, while spinach can be simply wilted at the end for added nutrition.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl is an excellent meal prep option that can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep the ingredients fresh, store the chicken, rice, and vegetables separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. The rice can be microwaved in a covered bowl with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

If you're looking to make this dish even more convenient for busy weekdays, consider doubling the recipe. This way, you'll have hearty meals ready to go, saving both time and effort. Additionally, you can freeze portions of the chicken and rice for up to three months. Just be sure to cool everything to room temperature before freezing and label your containers with dates to keep track of freshness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a flavorful meal.

For the Chicken Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup shredded carrots
Chopped green onions for garnish

Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables with your favorites!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious chicken rice bowl.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine diced chicken breast, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Steam the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooking, steam the broccoli and carrots until just tender, about 5 minutes.

Assemble the Rice Bowls

In serving bowls, divide the cooked brown rice, top with the sautéed chicken, and arrange the steamed vegetables around it. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Enjoy your nutritious and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider drizzling your bowl with a spicy sauce or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Flavor Variations

To add a new twist to the High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl, try exploring different marinade combinations for the chicken. For a zesty flavor, incorporate lime juice and cilantro into the marinade or add a splash of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist. These ingredients enhance the dish's complexity and can completely change the dining experience without requiring a complete overhaul.

Experimenting with sauces is another avenue to explore. Drizzling the finished bowl with sriracha or a homemade peanut sauce can elevate the flavor profile further. This flexibility makes it enjoyable to switch things up each week, keeping your meals exciting while still delivering the nourishment you need.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken rice bowl can be served as is or accompanied by fresh greens for added texture. Leafy greens like baby spinach or arugula make great side salads, topped with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the bowl. You can also sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty crunch and extra nutrition.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a fried egg on top of your bowl. The runny yolk will create a creamy texture that enhances the dish even further. This simple addition not only makes the dish visually appealing but also adds an extra punch of protein that aligns with the healthy focus of this recipe.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find the chicken dry, it could be a sign of overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you pull it off the heat right when it reaches 165°F (75°C). If this happens, consider serving the dish with a flavorful sauce to help moisten it, or add the chicken back to the skillet with a splash of broth to bring it back to life.

On the vegetable front, if your broccoli or carrots turn out too soft, aim to adjust your steaming time in future preparations. Alternatively, you can add a quick sauté at the end to reintroduce some structure. It’s all about finding that balance between tenderness and crunch in the overall bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can use white rice, but keep in mind that brown rice offers more fiber and nutrients.

→ How can I meal prep this dish?

You can batch-cook the chicken, rice, and vegetables and store them separately in airtight containers for up to four days.

→ Can I freeze the Chicken Rice Bowl?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and rice. Just ensure that the vegetables are cooked but not overdone to retain their texture.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, snap peas, spinach, or any of your favorite vegetables. Just ensure they cook through in the time allotted.