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: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup chopped spinach; 1 avocado, sliced; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Daily Collection

I absolutely love this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl because it combines all my favorite flavors into one meal. It's packed with lean protein and healthy carbs, making it perfect for post-workout recovery. Each time I prepare it, I find that the fresh ingredients really elevate the dish, especially with the zing of lime and the crunch of fresh veggies. Plus, it’s super convenient as everything cooks in one pot, saving time on cleanup without sacrificing taste!

Created by

Lottie Pennington

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:41:34.878Z

When I first created this recipe, I wanted to maximize flavor while keeping it healthy. The marinated chicken, seasoned with garlic and herbs, turns out juicy and tender every time. I experimented with different types of rice until I found that brown rice not only adds a nutty flavor but also increases the fiber content, making this bowl even more satisfying.

One of my favorite aspects is how versatile it is. You can swap out vegetables based on what's in season, and the lime juice gives it a fresh twist that brightens up every bite. It's become a staple in my kitchen, and I often whip it up when I'm short on time but still want something nourishing.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with lean protein to fuel your day
Versatile and customizable with your favorite veggies
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

      

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a critical step that should not be rushed. The olive oil, garlic, and paprika not only infuse the chicken with flavor but also help to tenderize it. Aim for a minimum of 15 minutes, but if time allows, marinating for an hour or more in the refrigerator will significantly enhance the taste. This will also improve moisture retention during grilling, ensuring your chicken remains succulent and juicy. Don't skip this part—it makes all the difference in both flavor and texture.

When marinating, ensure that the chicken is evenly coated. Avoid overcrowding the bowl to allow for even coverage. Use a resealable plastic bag if you want to massage the marinade into the chicken more thoroughly. After marinating, let any excess marinade drip off before cooking to avoid flare-ups on the grill.

Perfecting the Rice Bowl Technique

The base of this dish, brown rice, is not only nutritious but also provides a hearty texture that complements the tender chicken. Make sure your brown rice is fully cooked before beginning assembly; it can take 30 to 40 minutes on the stove or around 15 minutes in a pressure cooker. Once cooked, let it sit covered for 5-10 minutes to allow it to steam further, enhancing its fluffiness.

When layering your rice bowl, consider the color and crunch of your veggies. For added texture, grill or sauté the bell peppers for a few minutes to bring out their sweetness and add a smoky note. If you want to change up the grains, quinoa or farro can serve as excellent alternatives, providing different flavors and health benefits.

Customizing and Storing Your Bowl

This recipe's versatility allows you to customize it based on your favorite ingredients or what you have on hand. Consider adding other nutritious toppings such as shredded carrots, sliced radishes, or cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor and color. You can also swap the avocado for a dollop of Greek yogurt or hummus for a creamy element without the added fat.

If you want to prepare this meal in advance, the components can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep. When reheating, be cautious with the chicken; microwave in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through to prevent drying it out.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup chopped spinach
1 avocado, sliced
Lime wedges, for serving

Feel free to add other sauces or herbs as desired!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Rice Bowl

While the chicken rests, prepare the rice bowl by adding cooked brown rice to four plates. Top with diced bell peppers, chopped spinach, and slices of avocado.

Assemble

Slice the grilled chicken and arrange it over the rice bowls. Garnish with lime wedges and serve immediately.

Enjoy your protein-packed meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try topping the bowl with your favorite sauce, like a spicy sriracha or a creamy yogurt dressing.

Grilling Tips

Grilling the chicken is straightforward, but attention to heat management is key. Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat; a good indicator is when water droplets sizzle upon contact. The ideal cooking time is approximately 6-7 minutes per side, but this can vary depending on thickness. Using a meat thermometer can take the guesswork out; you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

To achieve perfect grill marks, don't flip the chicken too soon—wait until it's easy to lift from the grill surface. If you notice sticking, your pan may need more oil or preheating. After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes to redistribute the juices before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

For an eye-catching presentation, consider plating your chicken rice bowls on a large serving dish, allowing guests to customize their portions. Present with an array of toppings on the side, such as cilantro, diced jalapeños, or shredded cheese, to cater to different palates. This not only encourages personalization but also adds a fun element to the meal.

For a heartier version, you can serve the chicken rice bowl with a side of black beans or a light salad with a zesty vinaigrette. This combination not only enhances the overall flavor but also adds additional protein and fiber, making the meal even more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed completely before marinating and cooking.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to customize with broccoli, carrots, or any seasonal vegetables you enjoy.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and rice in advance, then assemble the bowls when ready to eat.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or no soy at all, this recipe is gluten-free.