High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 2 chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, sliced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Creations

I adore quick and healthy meals, and the High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl has become a favorite in my kitchen. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this bowl brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies in a delightful combination. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility; I can switch up the vegetables based on what I have on hand. It's perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, allowing me to create a balance of protein and carbs effortlessly.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:04:15.413Z

When I first created the High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl, I wasn't sure if I could truly achieve the depth of flavor I craved without a lengthy cooking time. However, by marinating the chicken in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for just a few minutes, it infuses incredible taste without much effort. This technique is a game-changer for busy weekdays!

One of the tips I swear by is using cooked rice—whether it's leftover or instant. It cuts down cooking time and allows me to focus on searing the chicken just right, achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. The combination of textures from the tender chicken and crispy vegetables takes this bowl to the next level!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
High protein content to fuel your day
Customizable with your favorite vegetables
Quick and easy for weeknight dinners

Bringing Flavor to the Forefront

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in this recipe that enhances both flavor and tenderness. By allowing the chicken to soak in the soy sauce, garlic, and ginger mixture for at least 10 minutes, you create a savory base for each bite. If you're short on time, even a quick five-minute marinade can make a difference, but longer is always better for deeper flavor penetration.

The cooking method used here, sautéing, is essential for achieving that slightly crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy. Cooking over medium heat helps the chicken develop a nice golden color. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking, ensuring even cooking throughout. You want it cooked through and just losing its pinkness while still remaining moist.

Vegetable Variety and Nutrition Boost

The choice of vegetables can significantly impact both the texture and nutrition of your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl. Broccoli not only adds a vibrant green color but also provides a hearty crunch and essential vitamins. Feel free to swap in other favorites like snap peas, zucchini, or spinach for variety. The key is to keep the cook time short, about five minutes in the pan, to retain their crispness and nutrients.

Adding a splash of soy sauce at the end of cooking not only enhances the overall flavor but helps in coating the veggies to make them glossy and appealing. Additionally, if you prefer a bit of heat, consider tossing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha at this stage for a kick that complements the savory chicken wonderfully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for the High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
2 chicken breasts, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, sliced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish

With these ingredients ready, you're set to make a delicious Chicken Rice Bowl!

Instructions

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

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine diced chicken, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.

Serve

Layer the cooked rice in bowls, top with the chicken and vegetable mixture, and sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra crunch.

Enjoy your delicious High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out the vegetables for whatever is in season or what you have on hand. Adding a pinch of chili flakes can give it an extra kick!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This chicken rice bowl is a fantastic meal prep option. You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator, which not only saves time but also allows for even more flavor development. Cooked components like rice and chicken can be kept in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days, making it ideal for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

If you want to freeze portions, separate the cooked chicken and veggies from the rice. Both can be saved in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, restoring that original savory goodness.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize this recipe according to your dietary preferences. For a lower-carb option, substitute cauliflower rice for regular rice. It absorbs flavors beautifully and gives a similar texture but with fewer calories and carbs, making it a fantastic alternative for those keeping an eye on their carb intake.

For added creaminess, you could drizzle a bit of sesame oil or a tahini sauce over the top right before serving. These additions enhance the dish's richness while also providing healthy fats. Additionally, don’t hesitate to serve this bowl with a side of edamame or a light salad to round out your meal and add even more textures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice is a great option and will add more fiber to the dish!

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian version.

→ What can I do with leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; simply reheat in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and vegetable mixture separately from the rice. Just make sure to thaw completely before reheating.