High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1/2 cup edamame, shelled; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Meals

I absolutely love making this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl, especially when I'm looking for a satisfying meal that fuels my body. The combination of juicy chicken, hearty rice, and vibrant vegetables makes this dish not only nutritious but also incredibly tasty. I appreciate how easy it is to prepare, allowing me to whip it up even on the busiest days. Plus, the added protein ensures I stay full and energized for longer, making this bowl a go-to recipe in my kitchen!

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:16:11.048Z

When I first experimented with this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl, it quickly became a favorite in my household. The secret lies in marinating the chicken with spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the meat tender and juicy. I usually prepare extra chicken so I can enjoy leftovers throughout the week, which makes meal prepping a breeze.

Another tip I discovered is incorporating a variety of vegetables tailored to the season. In autumn, I love adding roasted squash and greens, while summer brings fresh bell peppers and cucumbers. Not only do these add color, but they also provide additional nutrients that complement the dish beautifully. Every time I make this bowl, I’m reminded of how enjoyable healthy eating can be!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein to fuel your day
Versatile and customizable with your favorite veggies
Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy weeknights

Ingredient Highlights

The star of this High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl is, of course, the chicken breast. Packing in about 26 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving, it's a lean choice that helps keep your muscles nourished. Additionally, marinating the chicken not only infuses flavor but also enhances its tenderness, resulting in succulent bites. Be sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking; this way, you won't end up with some pieces overcooked while others remain underdone.

Brown rice serves as a robust foundation for this dish. Its nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the seasoned chicken, and its higher fiber content compared to white rice helps you feel fuller longer. If you're looking for a quicker alternative, you can substitute with quinoa, which has a similar texture and protein boost. In either case, the rice or quinoa should be cooked ahead of time to allow for quick assembly during meal prep.

Cooking Tips

When cooking the chicken, ensure your skillet is properly heated to the medium-high setting before adding in the marinated chicken. This helps achieve that coveted golden brown color and a slight crisp on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. If the skillet starts to get too dry while cooking, adding a splash of water can help steam the chicken for a moist consistency. Just keep your eye on it, stirring occasionally for a uniform cook.

As for the vegetables, the timing is key to achieving that perfect tender-crisp texture. Adding the broccoli, bell peppers, and edamame during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking ensures they retain their vibrant colors and nutrients. If you prefer your veggies softer, consider steaming them for a couple of minutes before adding them to the skillet; this will speed up the cooking time while maintaining an appealing crunch.

Serving and Storage

Serving this bowl warm with sesame seeds and green onions adds not just flavor but also a delightful crunch. Consider packing this meal into individual containers for a grab-and-go option during the week. If you're making it ahead, store the components separately to prevent the rice from becoming soggy. This way, you can easily reheat the chicken and vegetables while the rice remains fluffy and fresh.

If you're looking to scale the recipe for meal prep or a family gathering, simply double or triple the proportions, ensuring even cooking times remain consistent. The High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl can also be customized with seasonal vegetables or additional proteins like tofu for a vegetarian option, giving you endless variations to enjoy without straying from the core recipe.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1/2 cup edamame, shelled
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Feel free to mix and match your vegetables based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl:

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the diced chicken with soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 7-10 minutes or until fully cooked and golden brown, stirring occasionally.

Add Vegetables

Add the broccoli, bell peppers, and edamame to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Assemble the Bowl

In a serving bowl, layer the cooked brown rice, followed by the chicken and vegetable mixture. Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Serve

Enjoy your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl warm, and feel free to add extra soy sauce or your favorite dressing to taste!

This dish can be enjoyed right away or packed for lunch!

Pro Tips

For an even higher protein boost, consider adding cooked quinoa or topping with a fried egg.

Marinade Variations

While the classic marinade of soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and ginger is fantastic, you can easily customize it to suit your palate. For a spicy kick, add some sriracha or a dash of red pepper flakes. If you prefer more sweetness, incorporate a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for a teriyaki twist. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly, depending on your added flavor elements as they can significantly change the sodium level of your dish.

For a zesty brightness, consider adding citrus components, such as lime or lemon juice, to the marinade. Not only does this provide a refreshing taste, but the acidity helps to tenderize the chicken even further. Make sure to keep the marinating time consistent to avoid overpowering the chicken’s natural flavor with too much acidity.

Leftover Ideas

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can quickly become tomorrow's lunch in a whole new form. Shred the chicken and add it to a salad for a protein boost, or toss everything into a wrap with some fresh lettuce and a drizzle of your favorite dressing for an easy lunch. Alternatively, mix the components into a stir-fry with different sauces and serve it over fresh rice to create a completely new dish.

Leftover High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl can also be frozen, just be sure to store it in airtight containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated thoroughly, ensuring not to overcook the chicken.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice with white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh and use vegetable soy sauce.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover bowls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to mix in carrots, snap peas, or zucchini based on your preference!