High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 bowls
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, julienned; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nourishing Favorites

I love creating dishes that are not only nourishing but also incredibly satisfying, and this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl has become a favorite in my kitchen. Packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies, it's the perfect meal for post-workout recovery. In just 30 minutes, I can whip up a flavor-packed bowl that fuels my day. I especially enjoy customizing it with whatever seasonal vegetables I have on hand, making it both versatile and delicious!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:10:24.162Z

When I first tried making a high protein chicken rice bowl, I was surprised by how satisfying it turned out! The combination of marinated chicken with fragrant rice and fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal that keeps me full for hours. I found that grilling the chicken adds a wonderful smokiness that complements the dish beautifully, making it a regular feature in my weekly meal prep.

I love to play around with the flavors depending on my mood. Sometimes, I’ll add a spicy sauce to kick things up a notch, and other times, I’ll keep it simple with a squeeze of lemon. This flexibility means I never get bored!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
High protein content to support muscle recovery
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and sauces
Quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in achieving maximum flavor and tenderness. By allowing the chicken to soak in the soy sauce and olive oil mixture for at least 10 minutes, you enhance its natural juiciness while infusing it with rich umami notes. For even deeper flavor, consider extending the marination time to 30 minutes if you have the luxury of time. This not only amps up the taste but can also help in keeping the chicken succulent during cooking.

Choosing the right vessel for marinating is also important. I prefer using a resealable plastic bag for ease of mixing and coating all sides of the chicken. If you’re short on time, even a quick 10-minute soak will still yield great results, but if you can plan ahead, marinating overnight in the fridge will take this dish to the next level.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chicken

When you cook the marinated chicken, it's essential to maintain a medium-high heat. This ensures a beautiful sear on the chicken, resulting in golden edges and a slight crispness. If you find that the chicken is releasing too much moisture, you may need to increase the heat slightly or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This prevents steaming, which can make the chicken rubbery instead of achieving that ideal golden-brown surface.

For even cooking, I recommend using a non-stick skillet to help prevent sticking and to allow for easy flipping. When the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center, it's done. If you're unsure, using a meat thermometer can help eliminate the second-guessing and ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Customization and Variations

One of the best features of this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preferences. Zucchini, snap peas, or even sweet corn can work beautifully in this bowl. Additionally, adding a splash of lime juice or a dash of chili flakes at the end can elevate the flavors and give it an exciting twist.

If you’d like to make this dish lower in carbohydrates, you can substitute the brown rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa for an alternative grain that is just as satisfying. This flexibility also extends to the sauces; while soy sauce is a classic, consider experimenting with teriyaki sauce or a spicy peanut sauce for different flavor profiles that can completely change how you enjoy this chicken rice bowl.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, julienned
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will create a delicious and healthy meal for you!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine diced chicken, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooking, steam the broccoli and sauté the bell pepper and carrot in a separate pan until tender.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, place a serving of brown rice, top with the cooked chicken and vegetables, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Serve

Enjoy immediately, or pack it for a healthy lunch option!

Enjoy the process of making your own customized rice bowl!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. This will deepen the taste and make the chicken even more tender!

Storage Tips

This High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl is not only quick to make but also perfect for meal prep. If you plan on batch cooking, store the cooked chicken and vegetables separately from the rice to maintain freshness. In airtight containers, this dish can last up to three days in the refrigerator, making it an excellent option for busy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the chicken and vegetable mix. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Adding a splash of soy sauce during reheating can help restore moisture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

While this bowl stands on its own, enhancing it with toppings can elevate your meal to an exciting culinary experience. Drizzling with a homemade sesame dressing or topping with sliced green onions, avocado, or even a fried egg can enhance both visual appeal and flavor complexity. Each addition brings its unique character to the dish, making each bowl a delightful surprise.

Pairing the bowl with a side of miso soup or a simple cucumber salad can also round out the meal. This not only adds freshness but can balance the flavors of the chicken and rice. Don't be afraid to get creative with your sides; it’s all about what satisfies your cravings and complements the main components.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other grains instead of brown rice?

Absolutely! Quinoa or white rice would work great as well.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this rice bowl stores well in the fridge for up to four days.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Certainly! Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian option.

→ What can I use instead of soy sauce?

Tamari sauce or coconut aminos are excellent gluten-free alternatives to soy sauce.