Hey there, food lover! If you’re on the lookout for a hearty, wholesome meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this Shredded Chicken & Rice Bowl is calling your name. It’s the perfect mix of juicy, tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies. This bowl is not only satisfying but also customizable to your tastes, so you can make it exactly how you like it. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular meal rotation.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why You’ll Love Shredded Chicken & Rice Bowl
This isn’t just another boring bowl of food—this is a meal that brings comfort and flavor to your plate. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Perfectly Balanced: This bowl has it all—protein, carbs, and veggies, making it a complete meal that fuels you without weighing you down. Whether you’re getting through a busy day or need a post-workout meal, this is the way to go.
- Quick and Easy: No need for hours in the kitchen! This recipe is quick to make, and you can even meal prep it for the week. A great go-to for busy nights when you need something healthy but simple.
- Customizable: Want to spice things up? Add some hot sauce, switch out the rice for quinoa, or toss in some fresh avocado. The options are endless, so you can make it just the way you like it.
- Healthy and Filling: The combination of lean chicken, wholesome rice, and fresh veggies will keep you full and satisfied without the guilt. Plus, it’s packed with all those nutrients you need.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a family dinner, this bowl is bound to make everyone happy. It’s a dish that’s not only good for you but also delicious.
Ingredients
Let’s talk about what goes into this flavor-packed bowl:
- Chicken Breast: The star of the dish! It’s lean, juicy, and easy to shred into perfect bite-sized pieces.
- Rice: You can use white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. It’s the base that brings everything together.
- Olive Oil: To sauté the chicken and veggies, giving them that rich, savory flavor.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients add depth and a little bit of zing to the chicken and rice.
- Bell Peppers & Other Veggies: Colorful bell peppers add crunch and sweetness, but feel free to add your favorite veggies like zucchini, corn, or spinach.
- Lemon or Lime: A squeeze of citrus brightens the entire dish and brings it all together with a fresh zing.
- Spices: Season the chicken with your go-to spices—think cumin, paprika, or chili powder. You can make it as mild or as spicy as you like!
- Optional Toppings: Things like salsa, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream can make it even more flavorful and fun.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in!
- Cook the Rice: Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. If you’re using white rice, it’ll usually take about 10-15 minutes. For brown rice, it might take a bit longer—around 30 minutes. Set it aside when it’s done.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices (paprika, garlic powder, cumin are a good place to start). Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and shred it using two forks.
- Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil and sauté the chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers (or any veggies you’re using). Cook them until they’re softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Combine Everything: Add the shredded chicken back to the skillet with the veggies. Stir in the cooked rice and squeeze in some lemon or lime juice for that fresh zing. Mix it all together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the chicken and rice mixture into bowls, and top with any optional toppings like fresh cilantro, salsa, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve it warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Shredded Chicken & Rice Bowl
This Shredded Chicken & Rice Bowl is super versatile and can be paired with all kinds of sides and toppings to make it even more exciting:
- Fresh Guacamole: Serve with a side of creamy guacamole for an extra hit of flavor.
- Tortilla Chips: Add some crunchy tortilla chips on the side for a fun, Tex-Mex touch.
- Steamed Veggies: If you’re craving more veggies, some steamed broccoli or green beans go perfectly with this meal.
- Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the chicken and rice.
Additional Tips
- Meal Prep: This bowl is great for meal prepping! Simply store individual portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just thaw and reheat before serving.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some chili flakes or jalapeños to the mix. A drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can also give it a spicy kick.
- Substitute the Chicken: Don’t have chicken breast? You can use ground turkey or even rotisserie chicken for a faster option.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb, veggie-packed twist on the classic.
- Add Extra Protein: Want to pump up the protein? Add some beans or even a handful of nuts like cashews or almonds for extra crunch and nutrition.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
A1: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are just as tasty and flavorful. They’ll add a bit more richness, which is perfect if you prefer dark meat.
Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A2: Yes, you can! Swap the chicken for tofu, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
Q3: How can I make this dish spicier?
A3: You can add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even fresh jalapeños to spice it up. If you like heat, this is your chance to go wild with the spices!
Q4: Can I freeze this bowl?
A4: Yes! This bowl freezes really well. Just store the rice, chicken, and veggies in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Q5: How long will leftovers last?
A5: Leftovers will last about 3-4 days in the fridge. Just store them in an airtight container, and make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Q6: Can I add other veggies to this bowl?
A6: Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you like—zucchini, spinach, or even corn would be amazing additions.
Q7: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A7: Yes! You can prepare the chicken and rice in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just heat it up when you’re ready to eat.
Q8: Can I use a different type of rice?
A8: Yes, you can use brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa if you want a different twist.
Q9: How do I reheat leftovers?
A9: You can reheat the leftovers in the microwave or on the stove. Just add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Absolutely! Doubling the recipe is a great way to make extra for meal prep or to feed a larger group.
Conclusion
This Shredded Chicken & Rice Bowl is everything you need in a meal—quick, satisfying, healthy, and totally customizable. It’s a bowl full of comfort and flavor that works for lunch, dinner, or even as a meal prep option. So, go ahead, try it out, and let this recipe bring a little extra flavor and nourishment to your day!
Print
Shredded Chicken & Rice Bowl
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Shredded Chicken & Rice Bowl is a flavorful and satisfying dish, perfect for lunch or dinner. Marinated chicken, a tangy and spicy dressing, fresh vegetables, and steamed rice come together for a wholesome and delicious meal. Great for meal prep too!
Ingredients
-
For the Chicken Marinade:
-
500g skinless chicken thigh fillets
-
Salt & pepper, to taste
-
1 tbsp soy sauce
-
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
-
-
For the Dressing:
-
2 tbsp soy sauce
-
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
-
1 tbsp fresh chili, finely chopped
-
2 tbsp lime juice
-
2 tbsp fish sauce
-
1 tbsp soy sauce
-
1 tbsp brown sugar
-
1 tbsp sesame seeds
-
-
For the Salad:
-
1 cup fresh coriander, finely chopped
-
1/4 cup spring onion, sliced
-
1/2 red onion, sliced
-
1 tbsp sesame seeds
-
-
To Serve:
-
Steamed rice
-
Broccolini and cabbage, lightly steamed or sautéed in olive oil
-
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken Marinade:
-
In a bowl, combine the chicken marinade ingredients: salt, pepper, soy sauce, and olive oil. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
-
-
Cook the Chicken:
-
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and crispy on both sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
-
-
Make the Dressing:
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: soy sauce, garlic, chili, lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame seeds.
-
-
Assemble the Salad:
-
In a large bowl, add the salad ingredients: fresh coriander, spring onion, red onion, and sesame seeds. Pour the dressing over and toss to combine.
-
-
Shred the Chicken:
-
Shred the cooked chicken and add it to the salad. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
-
-
Serve:
-
Serve the shredded chicken and salad over a bed of steamed rice, with broccolini and cabbage on the side.
-
Notes
-
For extra flavor, try adding some toasted sesame oil to the dressing.
-
This dish can be meal-prepped for the week!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg