If you’re looking for a meal that’s quick, comforting, and packed with vibrant flavors, this Chicken and Rice Bowls Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines tender grilled chicken, fluffy rice, and a colorful mix of veggies all infused with fragrant herbs, making each bite a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. Whether you’re whipping up a weekday dinner or a casual weekend lunch, these bowls come together in just minutes and deliver on both convenience and satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken and Rice Bowls Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each add their own touch to the dish. From the savory richness of chicken broth to the sweet crunch of peas and corn, every component plays a part in creating a balanced, flavorful bowl.
- 1 cup uncooked instant rice: Quick-cooking and fluffy, it forms a perfect base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds a savory depth to the rice, making it more flavorful than cooking with water alone.
- 1/2 cup chopped frozen green pepper, thawed: Brings a fresh, slightly sweet crunch with vibrant color.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation to the dish.
- 2 teaspoons olive oil: Used for sautéing, it helps soften the vegetables and develop a gentle richness.
- 1 package (9 ounces) ready-to-use grilled chicken breast strips: Convenient and tender, these strips make the protein component easy and delicious.
- 1/2 cup frozen corn, thawed: Sweet bursts of flavor that complement the savory elements perfectly.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed: Adds a pop of bright green and a naturally sweet, tender bite.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Infuses a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the overall dish.
- 1 teaspoon rubbed sage: Offers a subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and ties everything together.
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice to balance the dish.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking your instant rice using the chicken broth according to the package directions. This simple step infuses the rice with savory flavor that sets the stage for the entire bowl. The broth cooks the rice perfectly fluffy and full of taste.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While the rice cooks, heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the chopped green pepper and onion. Cook them for about two to three minutes until they’re crisp-tender, releasing their sweet and aromatic flavors. This quick sauté brings freshness and crunch that lifts the entire dish.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Veggies
Next, stir in the ready-to-use grilled chicken strips along with the thawed corn and peas. Add the dried basil and rubbed sage now for that wonderful herbal lift that complements the chicken. Let everything cook together, uncovered, for four to five minutes until heated through. This step melds the flavors for a warming, satisfying mix.
Step 4: Finish with Rice and Seasoning
Finally, stir the cooked rice into the skillet mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and give everything one last mix so all the ingredients are perfectly combined. Now your Chicken and Rice Bowls Recipe is ready to be served!
How to Serve Chicken and Rice Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your bowls, add fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or cilantro, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. These little touches add freshness, brightness, and an extra layer of excitement to each serving.
Side Dishes
This meal pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even some warm, crusty bread. Side dishes that are light and refreshing complement the hearty, flavorful chicken and rice perfectly for a balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Chicken and Rice Bowls Recipe in individual bowls layered beautifully, or get creative by wrapping the mixture in warm tortillas for a delicious twist. You can also set up a bowl bar with toppings like avocado slices, shredded cheese, or hot sauce for a fun, customizable feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Chicken and Rice Bowls Recipe, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist while warming through evenly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh green peppers, corn, and peas work wonderfully and will add a crisp texture, just adjust the sautéing time to tenderize them accordingly.
Is grilled chicken strips necessary, or can I use another type?
Grilled chicken strips keep things easy and flavorful, but you can substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked chicken thighs, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free chicken broth and check that your instant rice doesn’t contain any additives with gluten.
What can I add to make the dish spicier?
Try adding a pinch of red chili flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even a diced jalapeño during the sauté to bring some heat to your Chicken and Rice Bowls Recipe.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, swap grilled chicken strips for marinated tofu or tempeh, and make sure your rice is prepared without any animal-based ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Rice Bowls Recipe is a delicious, no-fuss meal that feels like a comforting hug from your favorite friend. It’s fast, flexible, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for any day of the week. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your recipe rotation—you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!
Print
Chicken and Rice Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and flavorful Chicken and Rice Bowl featuring tender grilled chicken breast strips sautéed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, combined with fluffy instant rice cooked in chicken broth for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked instant rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped frozen green pepper, thawed
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 package (9 ounces) ready-to-use grilled chicken breast strips
- 1/2 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon rubbed sage
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Prepare the instant rice by cooking it in chicken broth according to the package directions, ensuring it is fluffy and flavorful.
- Sauté Vegetables: While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped green pepper and onion, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables become crisp-tender.
- Add Chicken and Veggies: Stir in the grilled chicken breast strips, thawed corn, peas, dried basil, and rubbed sage. Cook uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and fragrant.
- Combine and Season: Stir the cooked rice into the skillet mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well. Serve warm for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- Thaw frozen vegetables before cooking to ensure even heating and better texture.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or to suit dietary preferences.
- Adjust herbs and seasoning according to your taste for a personalized dish.
- Use fresh vegetables if preferred, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- This recipe can be doubled easily to serve a larger group.
