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 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cumin; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup cooked brown rice; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1/2 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1 lime, juiced; Sriracha or your favorite sauce (optional)

Highlighted under: Vital Meals Studio

I absolutely love making this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl because it’s a perfect combination of flavors and nutrients. Whenever I’m craving something filling yet healthy, this dish comes to the rescue. The succulent chicken blended with fragrant spices, crisp vegetables, and hearty rice creates a satisfying meal that keeps me energized throughout the day. The best part is how quick it comes together, making it ideal for busy weeknights when I still want a nutritious meal. Trust me, you’ll want to add this recipe to your weekly rotation!

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:21:35.512Z

When I first created this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl, I experimented with various spices that would elevate the chicken without overpowering the dish. I found that a blend of cumin and paprika added a wonderful dimension, while the garlic brought everything together. Pairing this seasoned chicken with fresh veggies not only boosts the nutritional content but also adds layers of texture that makes every bite delightful.

One tip I’ve learned is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each piece is tender and full of flavor. You can also swap out the rice for quinoa if you're looking for a protein boost while keeping this bowl gluten-free!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein to fuel your day
Versatile ingredients to cater to your taste
Quick to prepare, perfect for meal prep

Ingredient Insights

The choice of brown rice is essential in this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl due to its higher fiber content compared to white rice. This fiber not only helps keep you full longer but also supports digestive health. Cooking it until fluffy, with a bit of a bite, enhances the overall texture of the dish. For those who prefer white rice, you can substitute it, but be mindful that brown rice takes about 20-25 minutes longer to cook, so plan accordingly.

The vegetables in this bowl contribute vibrant colors and essential vitamins. Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients, offering vitamin C, K, and fiber, while bell peppers add a sweet crunch along with vitamin A and potassium. If you don’t have fresh vegetables on hand, frozen alternatives work just as well; just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they’re heated through but not overcooked.

Cooking Techniques

When preparing the chicken, it's crucial to let it rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in succulent and tender slices. If you cut into it immediately, you may lose moisture, leading to a drier bite. I recommend waiting at least 5 minutes before slicing to maximize juiciness.

Don't shy away from adjusting the spices to your taste! If you prefer a spicier profile, consider adding cayenne pepper or increasing the Sriracha drizzle. Conversely, if you’re looking for milder flavors, omitting the cumin or paprika can create a more subtle taste without compromising the overall satisfaction of the bowl.

Storage and Variations

If you’re making this dish ahead, store the components separately to maintain texture. The seasoned chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, while cooked rice and veggies can last around the same timeframe. When reheating, aim for a microwave-safe container to ensure even heating, and consider adding a splash of water to the rice to avoid dryness.

For a fun twist, you can transform this bowl into a burrito by wrapping the ingredients in a tortilla. This variation makes it easy to enjoy on the go. Alternatively, consider swapping the protein for tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option, creating a delicious and nutritious vegetarian version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Rice Bowl

1 cup cooked brown rice
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1/2 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1 lime, juiced
Sriracha or your favorite sauce (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the paprika, cumin, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mix onto the chicken breasts. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Let it rest before slicing.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken cooks, steam the broccoli and bell peppers until tender but still crisp. If using frozen corn, simply heat it in a saucepan.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer the rice first, followed by the sliced chicken. Create sections for the broccoli, bell peppers, corn, and top with cilantro. Drizzle lime juice over the top and add Sriracha if using.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. You can substitute any of the vegetables based on your preference or what's in season.

Meal Prep Tips

This recipe is an excellent candidate for meal prep! You can easily double the quantities of chicken and veggies. I often cook extra portions on Sunday to pack lunches for the week. Just ensure your rice is reheated thoroughly before serving, as cold or underheated rice can affect the overall experience.

When prepping, peel and chop your veggies ahead of time. Store in airtight containers in the fridge, which can save significant time on busy weekdays. The pre-prepped ingredients can quickly come together in under 15 minutes, making healthy eating effortless.

Cooking Tools

A good quality skillet is vital for cooking the chicken evenly; I prefer using non-stick varieties to prevent sticking and to enhance browning. If you have a meat thermometer, it can be incredibly helpful in ensuring your chicken is cooked through without being overdone, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.

For steaming the vegetables, a simple steamer basket placed over a saucepan can work wonders without the need for additional kitchen gadgets. Just make sure to keep an eye on the time, around 4-6 minutes is usually perfect for bright, tender vegetables that still have crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can meal prep the chicken and veggies and then assemble them when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I use instead of chicken?

To make it vegetarian, you can use tofu or chickpeas, seasoned similarly.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure the rice is gluten-free, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I add more protein?

Definitely! You can add beans, edamame, or nuts for an extra protein punch.