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: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup brown rice; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup corn kernels; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy Eats

I love creating meals that are as nutritious as they are delicious, and this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl is a perfect example. Packed with lean protein from the chicken and a medley of vibrant vegetables, it's not just filling, but also a feast for the eyes. The secret lies in the harmonious blend of spices and the way the ingredients come together in just one bowl. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or need a quick dinner, this recipe has got you covered with wholesome ingredients and incredible flavor.

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:16:17.908Z

Cooking this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl has quickly become one of my go-to meals. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. I marinated the chicken while prepping my veggies, which made for a super efficient process. The key is to use fresh ingredients, as they elevate the flavor profile incredibly!

One trick I discovered is to add a splash of lime juice just before serving. It brings out a zesty freshness that pairs perfectly with the savory elements of the bowl. Trust me, this simple addition makes all the difference and takes this dish to the next level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
High in protein to keep you satisfied and energized
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and grains
A balanced meal made in just one bowl for easy cleanup

Cooking Rice: A Key Element

The choice of brown rice in this recipe not only adds a nutty flavor but also increases the fiber and protein content. To achieve perfectly cooked rice, remember to bring the water to a full boil before reducing the heat to low. This process allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb water without burning. You can also substitute brown rice with quinoa for a gluten-free option; just adjust the cooking time to about 15 minutes.

After letting the rice sit for 5 minutes covered, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. This step enhances the texture and prevents clumping. For an added boost of flavor, consider cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water for richer taste. You can also stir in a teaspoon of olive oil before serving to give it a glossy finish.

Perfectly Cooked Chicken Every Time

To ensure your chicken breasts are juicy and well-seasoned, consider marinating them in the soy sauce and spices for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. The marinade infuses flavor and helps tenderize the meat. When cooking, maintaining a medium heat on your skillet is crucial; too high, and the chicken may sear without cooking through, leaving it dry.

Always check for doneness by using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you prefer, you can also grill the chicken to add a smoky depth of flavor. Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it easy to add protein to salads or wraps later in the week.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl:

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup brown rice
1 cup broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup corn kernels
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Lime wedges for serving

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious bowl:

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of brown rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Remove from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Chicken

While the rice is cooking, season the chicken breasts with soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Slice into strips.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the broccoli, diced bell pepper, and corn. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer the cooked brown rice, top with the sautéed vegetables, and sliced chicken. Drizzle with additional soy sauce if desired, and serve with lime wedges.

Enjoy your nutritious High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables or add in some edamame for extra protein. This dish is versatile and perfect for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Vegetable Variations

This High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl is highly versatile when it comes to the vegetables used. Feel free to swap out broccoli, red bell pepper, or corn for other options like snap peas, zucchini, or even diced sweet potatoes. Just remember that the texture of your veggies matters; aim for a colorful mix that offers a variety of nutrients and a satisfying crunch.

When sautéing the vegetables, keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking, which can lead to sogginess. You want them to be tender-crisp, meaning they still retain some bite. For an added flavor boost, toss in a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes just before serving for an extra kick.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare the chicken, rice, and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers. This makes assembly quick and easy throughout the week. The chicken and veggies can be refrigerated for up to four days, while the rice will hold its quality for up to a week. Just reheat everything in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

If you want to make it a freezer-friendly meal, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables in portions. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it moist. This not only saves time but also provides a healthy meal option at your fingertips.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, white rice can be used, but adjust the cooking time as it cooks faster than brown rice.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely! You can cook and assemble everything in advance and simply reheat before serving.

→ What other proteins can I use?

You can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or any lean meat of your choice.