High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup of uncooked brown rice; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced; Soy sauce for drizzling (optional)

Highlighted under: Wellness Collection

I love a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and nutrients, and this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl is definitely one of those meals. It's become a staple in my kitchen thanks to its balance of flavors and textures. I marinate the chicken in a simple mix of spices that really elevates the dish, and it’s served over perfectly cooked rice with vibrant veggies. In just a short time, I've created a filling dish that keeps me satisfied and energized for the day ahead.

Created by

Tilda Greenwood

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:23:34.883Z

When I first tried making this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I started by marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil and spices, which infuses so much flavor into the meat. The key is to let it sit for at least 30 minutes; this allows the seasonings to penetrate deeply, ensuring each bite is a burst of flavor.

The combination of rice and sautéed vegetables adds an exciting crunch and color to the dish. I love adding fresh spinach and bell peppers for their nutritional benefits and the vibrant visual appeal. Cooking the rice in chicken broth also enhances the flavor, making this bowl simply irresistible!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with lean protein for muscle recovery and energy
Fresh vegetables add a crunch and vibrant colors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Perfecting Your Rice

Cooking brown rice can sometimes be tricky, as it requires a longer cooking time compared to white rice. The key to perfectly fluffy brown rice is the right water-to-rice ratio; I recommend using 2 cups of liquid for every cup of dry rice. If you infuse the cooking liquid with chicken broth, you’ll gain an added depth of flavor. Once the rice is done, let it rest covered off the heat for about 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork for the best texture.

Make sure not to lift the lid while the rice is cooking, as steam is essential for proper cooking. If you find that your rice tends to stick to the pot, try adding a small amount of oil to the water, which can help prevent clumping. Leftover rice can be refrigerated and reheated easily, making it a versatile base for other meals throughout the week.

Marinating Techniques

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that boosts flavor and enhances texture. Allowing the chicken to sit in the olive oil and spice mixture for at least 30 minutes is crucial for infusing those flavors. If you’re short on time, consider letting it marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor. Alternatively, you can also use yogurt or buttermilk for marinating, which not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the chicken by breaking down the proteins.

When sautéing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This can cause the chicken to steam rather than brown. Cook in batches if necessary, and aim for a golden-brown crust for that delicious flavor. If you find the chicken is not browning as expected, you may need to increase the heat slightly or ensure the pan is hot enough before adding the chicken.

Customizing Your Bowl

This High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl is a flexible template for a variety of ingredients. Feel free to swap the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what's in season; zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas work brilliantly. If you want to add a little sweetness, consider incorporating diced mango or pineapple, which pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and adds a touch of tropical flair.

For a spicier version, you can add red pepper flakes to the marinade or serve with a sriracha drizzle on top. If you’re following a low-carb diet, swap out the brown rice for cauliflower rice or spiralized veggies for a lighter option. Remember, the key is to balance flavors and textures, so play around until you find your perfect combination!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl:

Ingredients

1 cup of uncooked brown rice
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 bell pepper, sliced
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Soy sauce for drizzling (optional)

Make sure to prep all your ingredients before you start cooking for the best results!

Instructions

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

Cook the Rice

In a pot, combine 1 cup of brown rice with 2 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Marinate the Chicken

While the rice is cooking, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Cut the chicken breasts into strips and toss them in the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the marinated chicken strips. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.

Add Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped spinach and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Assemble the Bowl

In bowls, layer the cooked rice, followed by the sautéed chicken and vegetables. Drizzle with soy sauce if desired, and top with sliced green onions.

Enjoy your nutritious and flavorful High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top before serving. You can also customize the vegetables based on your preference or what's in season.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and rice in separate airtight containers to maintain their texture. In the fridge, they should stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using a microwave, but for best results, add a splash of water over the rice and cover to steam it back to life. This will prevent it from drying out and helps retain moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled bowls. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave or oven. Just be cautious of overcooking the vegetables during the reheating process, as they can become mushy if heated for too long.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up to serve a crowd. Simply multiply the amounts of each ingredient by the number of servings you need. Keep in mind that when enlarging the batch, the cooking time for the rice may change slightly due to the increased volume. Always taste test to ensure the seasoning remains balanced, as larger quantities may require additional spices.

When scaling up the sautéing process, it’s better to cook in batches to maintain heat and achieve the desired sear on the chicken. You don’t want to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Remember, presentation matters—serving them in individual bowls or on a large platter adds a welcoming touch to the meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken can save you time. Just sauté the vegetables and heat the chicken through.

→ What can I substitute for brown rice?

You can use quinoa or white rice, but cooking times will vary based on the grain used.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe can be gluten-free.

→ How can I make this meal meal-prep friendly?

You can batch-cook the chicken and rice, and store them in separate containers. Just add fresh veggies when you're ready to eat.