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; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Favorites

I absolutely love making this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl because it's not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Each bite is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic option for lunch or dinner. I find that the balance of protein from the chicken combined with the wholesome rice and fresh veggies creates a perfect meal that is both filling and nutritious. Plus, it’s so easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or sauces, creating a dish that never gets boring!

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:19:35.952Z

When I first tried this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl, I was amazed at how well the flavors melded together. The seasoned chicken is tender and juicy, while the rice provides a perfect base that soaks up all the delicious sauce. I love adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end for an extra flavor burst. It truly elevated the dish!

One of my tricks is to marinate the chicken ahead of time, even just for 30 minutes. This step makes a significant difference in flavor, and the quick cooking process ensures that the chicken remains moist. Don't skimp on the veggies either, as they provide not just color but also crunch and nutrients!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
High in protein, perfect for post-workout meals
A one-bowl meal that's easy to prepare and clean up
Endlessly customizable with different veggies and sauces

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of brown rice and chicken makes this dish not only high in protein but also rich in whole grains. Brown rice provides essential fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you full longer. Opting for brown rice over white also gives the dish a nutty flavor and chewy texture that complements the tenderness of the chicken beautifully.

Chicken breasts are known for their lean protein content, which is crucial for muscle recovery, especially post-workout. When selecting your chicken, ensure that the breasts are fresh and ideally organic to enhance the flavor. If you're in a pinch, pre-cooked grilled chicken strips can serve as a convenient substitute, just reduce cooking time to warm them through.

Perfecting Cooking Techniques

Cooking the rice in chicken broth rather than water infuses it with additional flavor, making every bite more delicious. Keep an eye on the rice toward the end of the cooking time; it should be fluffy and the liquid fully absorbed. If you notice that the rice is still firm and the liquid is nearly gone, add a splash more broth and let it simmer for an extra 5 minutes.

When preparing the chicken, I recommend using a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F. This prevents overcooking, which can dry out the chicken. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, flavorful bites.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup brown rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, chopped
1 cup broccoli florets
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish

Make sure to prep your ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl:

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the brown rice with chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Prepare the Chicken

While the rice cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and shred or slice the chicken.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and broccoli. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Season with additional soy sauce if desired.

Assemble the Bowl

In bowls, layer the cooked rice, topped with chicken and sautéed vegetables. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Enjoy your nutritious and protein-packed meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in other vegetables or proteins such as tofu or shrimp based on your preference. Experimenting with different sauces can also enhance the dish significantly.

Customization Options

One of the great things about this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Zucchini, snap peas, or even carrots can be delicious additions. Keep in mind that denser vegetables like carrots may require slightly longer sautéing times, around 8-10 minutes, to become tender.

If you're looking to add more flavor, experiment with different sauces such as teriyaki, sriracha, or a simple garlic sauce. A drizzle of sesame oil right before serving adds a lovely nuttiness that enhances the overall taste. You can also throw in a handful of nuts—like cashews or almonds—for an extra crunch and healthy fats.

Storage and Meal Prep

This chicken rice bowl is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the chicken and rice ahead of time, and store them separately in airtight containers. The cooked rice can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator, while the chicken can stay fresh for about 4 days. Reheat both in the microwave for a quick meal, adding a splash of broth or water to the rice to prevent it from drying out.

If you prefer, you can also freeze the chicken and rice. Just make sure they cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat. The vegetables can be sautéed fresh for a crunchy texture, or you can toss in leftover cooked vegetables to save time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! This bowl is perfect for meal prepping. Just store the components separately in airtight containers and combine when ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for brown rice?

You can use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even white rice if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap out the soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.