High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce (optional)

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Inspiration

When I first set out to create a High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl, I wanted something not only delicious but also nutritious and satisfying. After experimenting with different flavors and textures, I settled on a combination that brought together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables, all packed with protein. This dish has become a weeknight favorite in our home, offering endless possibilities for customization while keeping the protein content high. Perfect for meal prep, it ensures I stay fueled and energized throughout the day!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:57:36.132Z

As I crafted the High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl, I realized the key to its success lay in the marinated chicken. I used a blend of spices and yogurt to keep the chicken juicy while enhancing its flavor. After cooking it in a skillet until golden brown, I added it to a bed of fluffy brown rice, which not only offers more fiber but also complements the dish beautifully.

This meal is also incredibly versatile. On days when I want to mix things up, I swap the vegetables for whatever I have on hand—whether it's broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. I've found that drizzling a bit of sriracha on top elevates the dish to a whole new level!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with protein to keep you full and energized
Versatile, allowing for seasonal vegetables and personal tastes
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade is a crucial step in achieving flavor and tenderness in your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl. By using Greek yogurt as a base, the chicken absorbs moisture while the acidity helps break down proteins, making the meat juicier and more flavorful. Adding spices like paprika and cumin not only seasons the chicken but also adds depth to the dish. For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, but you can extend this to a few hours for an even more robust flavor profile.

To prevent cross-contamination, it’s essential to handle the raw chicken carefully. Use a separate cutting board and utensils for the chicken and wash everything with soap afterward. If you want to prepare marinades in bulk, consider freezing portions; this allows for quick, flavorful meals on busy days without sacrificing time or taste.

Building Your Rice Bowl

The rice serves as a hearty base that balances the recipe's flavors. Brown rice not only adds fiber but also has a nutty flavor that complements the marinated chicken beautifully. For those looking for a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice makes an excellent substitute, providing a similar texture while reducing calories. If you're short on time, pre-cooked or microwaveable brown rice can be a great way to streamline meal prep while still maintaining texture and taste.

To elevate the nutritional profile, feel free to add other colorful vegetables like bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even avocado, which would add creaminess. I love to top my bowl with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra crunch. And don't shy away from the finishing touches; a squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten up the entire dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start making your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl:

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup spinach, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Prepare the Rice Bowl

In a serving bowl, start with a base of cooked brown rice. Layer on sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and chopped spinach. Top with crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of sriracha if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Your High Protein Chicken Rice Bowl is ready to enjoy! Mix everything together and dig in for a nutritious meal.

Enjoy your colorful and protein-packed bowl!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to brighten up the dish. You can also substitute quinoa for brown rice for a different texture and taste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the components separately for the best texture—this keeps the rice fluffy and prevents the veggies from wilting. Use airtight containers to maintain freshness; the chicken can last up to four days in the refrigerator. When reheating, microwave the chicken and rice gently in short intervals to avoid drying them out, covering with a damp paper towel can help retain moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions of the chicken and rice. After cooking and cooling, place in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Reheat directly from frozen in the microwave, or for more even cooking, place it in a skillet with a splash of water and cover until heated through.

Variations for Every Taste

Experimenting with different spices can alter the flavor profile without changing the overall dish significantly. For a touch of Asian flair, try adding soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to the marinade. Alternatively, for a Mexican twist, lime juice, cilantro, and chili powder would give the chicken an entirely new character and match well with black beans instead of rice.

Don’t feel limited to just chicken! This bowl works great with turkey, tofu, or shrimp as protein alternatives. The cooking times may need slight adjustments—shrimp cooks much quicker, usually around 3-4 minutes per side, while tofu should be pressed and pan-seared to achieve a golden crust. Whatever variation you choose, keep the same balance of flavors and textures for a satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different protein?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more sriracha or toss in some red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.

→ Is the dish gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free. Just check your yogurt and rice packaging to be sure.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time and store them in the fridge for meals throughout the week.