Lunch & Dinner

Chicken and Rice Bowl Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Name: Chicken and Rice Bowl Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion; 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper; 1/2 cup sweet yellow corn kernels; 1/2 cup tender green peas; 1 package pre-cooked grilled chicken breast strips; 1 cup quick-cooking white rice; 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock; 1 teaspoon dried Italian basil; 1 teaspoon ground sage; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/8 teaspoon sea salt

Martha Adams February 24, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 15 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When I think of a chicken and rice bowl, my mind instantly drifts to vibrant toppings and delightful sides that elevate the experience. You can add toppings like sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for that zesty flair.

Consider crumbling some feta or drizzling a bit of spicy sriracha for added heat. As for sides, a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or even some homemade guacamole can bring extra life to your meal.

This wholesome dish is the canvas; your toppings and sides are the brush strokes, creating a masterpiece tailored to your taste.

Why This Recipe Works?

1. Ease of Preparation
This dish is about simplicity. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes. Just a few steps turn ordinary ingredients into a flavorful bowl of goodness. For busy weeknights, this recipe is a find. Minimal chopping, quick cooking time—what’s not to love?

2. Balanced Nutrition
We all know chicken and rice are protein-packed and full of energy, but this bowl adds variety. The veggies contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a balanced meal. As a dietitian, I prioritize meals that offer nutritional benefits. This bowl doesn’t skimp on that.

3. Versatility
This recipe is as flexible as you need it to be. You can switch up your veggies, spices, or sauces based on what you have on hand. Prefer quinoa instead of rice? Go for it! Want to toss in some spinach? Absolutely. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to put your spin on every serving.

4. Delicious Flavors
The combination of seasonings—like garlic powder and Italian basil—adds layers of flavor that surprise the palate. You might not think chicken and rice could be so exciting, but trust me, each bite brings together a medley of tastes that will keep you coming back for more.

How Does It Taste Like?

Let’s be honest—taste is king when it comes to food. This chicken and rice bowl offers a delightful interplay of flavors. The savory chicken pairs beautifully with the fluffy rice, while the veggies add a crisp bite.

The seasoning plays a crucial role, with a warm, herby finish that lingers on your tongue. It’s comfort food without the heaviness. You experience that satisfying fullness, but you won’t feel weighed down afterwards. Now, who wouldn’t want a dish like that?

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Chicken and Rice Bowl Variations?

You might ask, what’s so special about this chicken and rice bowl? The magic lies in the ingredients and how they come together. First, we use frozen veggies for convenience without sacrificing quality.

They are picked at peak freshness and packed with nutrients. Second, the pre-cooked grilled chicken breast strips save time and effort. It’s like having a personal sous-chef in your freezer! Finally, the seasoning mix is carefully balanced; you won’t find a bland bite here.

The Ingredients

For this effortless chicken and rice bowl, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper (frozen or fresh, thawed if frozen)
1/2 cup sweet yellow corn kernels (frozen, thawed)
1/2 cup tender green peas (frozen, thawed)
1 package (9 ounces) pre-cooked grilled chicken breast strips
1 cup quick-cooking white rice
1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
1 teaspoon dried Italian basil
1 teaspoon ground sage
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/8 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent and aromatic. This forms the base of flavor for your dish.

Step 2: Add Bell Peppers and Corn

Next, stir in the diced green bell pepper and corn kernels. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peppers soften. The colors will start to pop, making your kitchen feel inviting.

Step 3: Incorporate the Chicken

Now it’s time for the star of the show—the grilled chicken. Add the chicken strips to the skillet and stir well. Let it warm through, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The chicken will absorb the flavors from the veggies.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

In a separate pot, bring the chicken stock to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the quick-cooking white rice.

Cover and reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the rice absorbs all the liquid. Keep an eye on it.

Step 5: Season to Taste

While the rice is cooking, let’s work on flavors. In the skillet with the chicken and veggies, sprinkle in the dried Italian basil, ground sage, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, freshly ground black pepper, and sea salt. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to mingle and infuse the dish.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once the rice is ready, add it to the skillet. Mix it all together gently so that the rice combines with the chicken and veggies evenly. This is the moment when everything becomes one harmonious bowl.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Dish up your chicken and rice bowl while it’s hot. You can garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or any of your preferred toppings. Dig in and savor the flavors!

Notes

Use fresh herbs if you have them on hand; they’ll add a vibrant flavor.
Leftover chicken or turkey works well; just skip the sautéing step.
For spice lovers, increase the crushed red pepper flakes for a kick!
If you’re not into rice, quinoa or cauliflower rice can be great alternatives.
This dish is meal-prep friendly; store in airtight containers and enjoy throughout the week.

How Do You Store this Chicken and Rice Bowl?

To effectively store this dish, let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

This makes it perfect for meal-prepping! If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Properly sealed, it can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.

Sides for Chicken and Rice Bowl

Crisp Garden Salad
A refreshing garden salad adds crunch and vibrant colors to your meal. Toss together some lettuce, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing contrasts well with the savory flavors of the chicken and rice.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted veggies are the perfect complement. Throw together some carrots, zucchini, and broccoli with a drizzle of olive oil and roast until crisp. This side dish adds an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
Homemade Guacamole
Nothing beats the creaminess of guacamole with chicken and rice. Mash some ripe avocados with lime juice, garlic, and some chopped onions. Not only is it delicious, but it adds a level of indulgence and healthiness.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Vegetable Oil Instead of Olive Oil
If you don’t have extra-virgin olive oil, any neutral cooking oil will suffice. Canola or sunflower oil work just as well.
Brown Rice Instead of White
Prefer brown rice for more fiber? It may take a bit longer to cook, but it can add a nutty flavor to the bowl.
Any Fresh or Frozen Veggies
Feel free to swap out the green bell pepper, corn, or peas for other veggies you enjoy. Asparagus or even spinach can be great additions.
Homemade Chicken Instead of Pre-Cooked
If you have raw chicken on hand, simply chop it up and add it to the skillet earlier in the process. Just ensure it cooks through before mixing in the rice.

Conclusion

A chicken and rice bowl is more than a convenient meal option. It combines nutrition, flavor, and versatility into one incredible dish. As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I’ve seen meals like this transform weeknight dinners from mundane to mesmerizing.

You hold the creative reins with toppings and variations. So give this a try. Create your own masterpiece, and relish the comfort and joy this bowl brings. Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Chicken and Rice Bowl Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Author: Martha Adams Cuisine: Asian Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 15 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 239 Kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

You’re hungry after a long day, but you crave something satisfying yet quick to prepare. Enter the chicken and rice bowl—an unsung hero of home cooking. This dish is not just a meal; it's a vibrant blend of flavors and textures that makes every bite exciting.

As a registered dietitian and food blogger, I understand the importance of meals that are easy, healthy, and downright delicious. Let’s dive into why this chicken and rice bowl is the go-to dish on weeknights and weekends.