Healthy Chicken And Brown Rice Bowl

Name: Healthy Chicken And Brown Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup carrots, julienned; Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for drizzling

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Collection

I love making this Healthy Chicken and Brown Rice Bowl whenever I want a satisfying yet nutritious meal. It’s packed with lean protein, whole grains, and a variety of vegetables that make it not only delicious but also a well-rounded option for lunch or dinner. Plus, I appreciate how simple it is to prepare, allowing me to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Each bowl can be customized with my favorite ingredients, making it a versatile dish everyone in my family enjoys.

Created by

Elspeth Murray

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:57:37.885Z

When I first tried creating my own Healthy Chicken and Brown Rice Bowl, I wasn’t sure how well the flavors would come together, but I was pleasantly surprised! The combination of marinated chicken, nutty brown rice, and crisp vegetables turned out to be incredibly satisfying. I loved that I could adjust the seasonings to match my cravings, which made it a hit every time I made it!

One of my favorite tips is to cook a larger batch of the brown rice and chicken at the beginning of the week. This not only saves me time during busy days but also allows me to whip up quick meals with different toppings or sauces, keeping things fresh through the week. It's a practical and tasty way to maintain a healthy diet!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A vibrant mix of flavors and textures in each bowl
A balanced meal that keeps you full without the guilt
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, as they can easily dry out if overcooked. To ensure juicy, tender chicken, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). I recommend using a meat thermometer to get accurate readings. Once the chicken is golden brown on both sides but cooked through, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more flavorful chicken.

If you're looking to save time, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time. Marinate it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply take it out and toss it in the skillet. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor, as the spices and garlic penetrate deeper into the meat.

Vegetable Variations and Substitutions

The vegetable medley in this bowl adds color and nutrition, but feel free to swap in your favorites based on what's in season or what you have on hand. For instance, zucchini, snap peas, or even asparagus work wonderfully in this dish. If you're in a hurry, frozen mixed vegetables can be a great shortcut; just toss them into the hot skillet and sauté for a few minutes until heated through.

Consider adding some leafy greens like spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost. Add them towards the end of cooking to maintain their bright color and crisp texture. Cooking them too long can result in a mushy consistency, so a quick stir-fry is all you need.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This Healthy Chicken and Brown Rice Bowl stores well, making it a perfect meal prep option. After assembling, keep the chicken, rice, and vegetables in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When it's time for lunch or dinner, just reheat each component in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. I prefer using a skillet for reheating, as it helps maintain the texture of the veggies.

If you plan to freeze the bowl, consider freezing the components separately. Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to three months, but cooked rice can lose its texture when frozen. If you freeze it, make sure to store it in smaller portions for easier thawing. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chicken and Rice Bowl

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
2 cups cooked brown rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup bell pepper, sliced
1 cup carrots, julienned
Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for drizzling

Feel free to substitute any vegetables you prefer!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, and sauté the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots for about 5 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer cooked brown rice at the bottom, followed by the sautéed vegetables and sliced chicken on top. Drizzle with soy or teriyaki sauce as desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately and enjoy a healthy, homemade meal!

Customize your bowl with any additional toppings such as avocado or nuts!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add chili flakes or sriracha on top of your bowl. You can also prep the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Texture and Flavor Balance

What makes this bowl truly satisfying is the balance between textures and flavors. The slightly chewy brown rice provides a hearty base, while the sautéed vegetables add a crisp freshness that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken. To enhance this, sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for added crunch and visual appeal.

Using whole grains like brown rice not only adds a nutty flavor but also provides a longer-lasting source of energy compared to white rice. This makes the dish more filling and beneficial for your overall health. The spices used in marinating the chicken play a crucial role, too; the paprika gives a mild warmth that complements the naturally sweet carrots and bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and rice bowl makes for an excellent meal on its own, but you can easily elevate it by adding sauces or garnishes. For a kick of flavor, consider adding a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes. You can also serve it with lime wedges on the side for a refreshing zing that brightens the entire dish.

For an even heartier meal, try adding a fried or poached egg on top. The runny yolk will create a rich sauce that binds all the components together, making each bite even more satisfying. Whether you’re dining solo or serving family, these small enhancements can turn a simple bowl into a delightful culinary experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice from a rice cooker or microwave?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked brown rice saves time and works perfectly for this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ Can I prepare this bowl ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

Feel free to include any vegetables you enjoy, such as snap peas, zucchini, or spinach.