18 Flavorful Chicken Rice Bowl Recipes for Busy Weeknights

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! Chicken rice bowls are a delicious and easy way to spice up your weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And the best part? You can customize them to your taste with a variety of sauces, seasonings, and toppings.

From spicy Korean-inspired dishes to creamy Mediterranean flavors, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering chicken rice bowl recipes for you to try. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and sour or savory and umami, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to hit the spot.

In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey around the world, exploring different flavors and cuisines to bring you the most delicious and easy-to-make chicken rice bowl recipes. So grab your apron, get ready to cook, and let’s dive in!

Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

A flavorful and easy-to-make Asian-inspired dish that combines the richness of teriyaki chicken with the comfort of a warm rice bowl. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup cooked Japanese-style short-grain rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook Japanese-style rice according to package instructions.
6. Toss mixed vegetables with remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Assemble the bowls by placing a chicken breast on top of a scoop of cooked rice, surrounded by roasted vegetables.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Spicy Korean Chicken Rice Bowl

This spicy and savory rice bowl dish combines the flavors of Korea with the comfort of a warm bowl of goodness. With juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a kick of spice, this recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ginger, grated
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and toasted sesame oil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through.
4. Heat the rice according to package instructions.
5. In a separate pan, sauté the bell peppers and carrots until tender.
6. Assemble the bowls by placing the cooked chicken on top of the rice, followed by the vegetables and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds (if using).

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Lemon Herb Chicken Rice Bowl

Brighten up your day with this zesty and flavorful Lemon Herb Chicken Rice Bowl! Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a burst of citrusy goodness come together in perfect harmony.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken breast and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
4. In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the parsley.
7. Slice the rested chicken breast into thin strips and serve on top of the rice bowl.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Thai Basil Chicken Rice Bowl

Savor the flavors of Thailand with this aromatic and savory rice bowl dish, featuring juicy chicken, fragrant basil, and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups cooked Thai jasmine rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 dried red chilies, crushed (for some heat)

Instructions:

1. Cook chicken breast according to your preference (grilled, pan-fried, or baked).
2. In a separate pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic, bell peppers, and Thai basil; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in coconut milk, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the pan with the vegetable mixture.
5. Serve chicken and vegetable mixture over cooked rice.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Garlic Butter Chicken Rice Bowl

This recipe combines flavorful chicken, aromatic garlic butter, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook the rice according to package instructions using water or chicken broth. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork.
6. Serve the baked chicken on top of the fluffy rice and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Honey Sriracha Chicken Rice Bowl

This recipe combines the flavors of spicy sriracha sauce with the warmth of honey and tender chicken, served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken breast in a shallow baking dish and brush the honey-sriracha mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve the chicken over cooked white rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cajun Spiced Chicken Rice Bowl

Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this flavorful Cajun-inspired chicken rice bowl! This dish combines the bold flavors of the Bayou with the comfort of a warm, fluffy rice bowl.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season chicken with the spice mixture, salt, and pepper.
4. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions.
6. Toss mixed bell peppers with a pinch of salt and cook in a pan over medium heat until tender.
7. Assemble bowls by placing cooked chicken on top of rice, followed by bell peppers and chopped green onions.
8. Squeeze lime juice over the dish and serve.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Mango Salsa Chicken Rice Bowl

Elevate your mealtime with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of mango, spiciness of salsa, and tenderness of chicken.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup store-bought or homemade mango salsa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, lime wedges, sliced avocado

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine cooked rice and mango salsa in a bowl.
5. Slice cooked chicken into strips.
6. Assemble bowls by placing chicken on top of rice mixture, adding optional toppings if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes

Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl

This recipe combines the flavors of buffalo chicken with a hearty serving of rice, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. With its spicy kick from hot sauce and creamy coolness from blue cheese crumbles, this bowl is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook chicken according to your preference (grilled, baked, or sautéed) until fully cooked.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix well.
4. Add cooked chicken on top of the rice mixture.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled blue cheese over the chicken.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl

A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with juicy chicken, nutty rice, and a medley of Mediterranean spices.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the chicken; stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. In a separate pot, heat cooked rice with a splash of water over low heat, stirring constantly, until heated through.
6. Assemble bowls by placing chicken on top of rice, followed by parsley, feta cheese, olives, and artichoke hearts.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Curry Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl

This vibrant and flavorful bowl combines the warmth of curry with the creaminess of coconut, served atop fluffy rice and tender chicken. A perfect blend of Indian-inspired flavors and comfort food.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup curry powder
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides; remove from heat.
4. In a separate pan, whisk together curry powder and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Combine cooked rice and curry mixture in a bowl. Top with chicken and garnish with cilantro.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl

Satisfy your cravings with this flavorful BBQ chicken rice bowl, perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and chicken pieces until coated. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
5. Assemble bowls by placing cooked rice at the bottom, followed by mixed greens, diced red bell pepper, and BBQ chicken.
6. Top with feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

A sweet and savory twist on classic teriyaki chicken, served over fluffy rice and topped with juicy pineapple

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Fresh pineapple chunks, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable oil.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions.
5. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
6. In a small saucepan, combine leftover marinade and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Serve chicken over cooked rice, topped with sliced onion and fresh pineapple chunks.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Avocado Lime Chicken Rice Bowl

Fresh flavors come together in this vibrant and nutritious bowl, featuring juicy chicken, creamy avocado, tangy lime, and fluffy rice.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for 15 minutes.
4. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions.
6. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced avocado and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly tender.
7. Assemble bowls by placing cooked rice at the bottom, topped with chicken, avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Sesame Ginger Chicken Rice Bowl

This Asian-inspired bowl combines juicy chicken with savory sesame oil, spicy ginger, and fluffy rice, all topped with crispy sesame seeds. A flavorful and nutritious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the grated ginger and cook for an additional minute.
4. Serve the chicken over cooked rice.
5. Top with chopped scallions, toasted sesame seeds, salt, and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Chipotle Lime Chicken Rice Bowl

This recipe combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers with the brightness of lime juice, all wrapped up in a satisfying rice bowl. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced radishes, cilantro, sour cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, minced chipotle peppers, and salt.
3. Place chicken breast in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lime-chipotle mixture.
4. Roast chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
6. Assemble bowls by placing roasted chicken on top of cooked rice.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Pesto Chicken Rice Bowl

A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with grilled chicken, savory pesto rice, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp pesto sauce
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
4. In a small bowl, mix pesto sauce with cooked rice.
5. Toss mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill or sauté until tender.
6. Assemble the bowls by placing grilled chicken on top of pesto rice, followed by mixed vegetables.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Jerk Chicken Rice Bowl

Get ready to spice up your meal with this Caribbean-inspired Jerk Chicken Rice Bowl! This flavorful dish combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning, tender chicken, and fluffy rice for a quick and delicious meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the jerk seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the pan and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Serve the chicken and vegetables over the cooked rice.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 18 mouth-watering chicken rice bowl recipes! From spicy Korean-inspired dishes to Mediterranean and Cajun-spiced flavors, there’s something for everyone. Try the Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl with sweet soy sauce and sesame seeds, or spice things up with the Spicy Korean Chicken Rice Bowl. For a bright and zesty option, go for the Lemon Herb Chicken Rice Bowl. With options like Honey Sriracha and Mango Salsa, you’ll never get bored with these flavorful bowls.

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