Description
Savor Mediterranean-inspired “Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl” flavors that blend tender marinated chicken with aromatic herbs and zesty seasonings. Crisp vegetables and fluffy rice create a perfect harmony, inviting you to enjoy a quick, nutritious meal that promises delightful culinary satisfaction.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (450 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Main Grains:
- 1 cup (200 grams) uncooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- 2 cups (480 milliliters) water or chicken broth
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Seasonings and Flavoring Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup sliced cucumbers
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Sauce Ingredients:
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions
- Transform chicken into a flavor-packed marinade using olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Thoroughly coat the chicken and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing the ingredients to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Cleanse rice under cool running water, then transfer to a saucepan with water or chicken broth. Introduce a pinch of salt, reduce heat to minimal, and cover. Simmer until rice becomes tender and liquid vanishes completely, approximately 15-20 minutes. Delicately separate grains with a fork and reserve.
- Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature. Position marinated chicken and cook thoroughly, ensuring each side develops beautiful caramelized marks. Rotate after 4-5 minutes per side, confirming internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Allow chicken to rest briefly before slicing.
- Craft a vibrant sauce by whisking together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Taste and adjust seasonings to create a balanced flavor profile.
- Construct individual rice bowls by distributing cooked rice as a foundation. Layer sliced grilled chicken atop the rice, then artfully arrange shredded lettuce, cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, julienned carrots, and cucumber. Generously drizzle with prepared sauce and garnish with sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
Notes
- Marinading chicken overnight dramatically enhances flavor absorption, creating deeper and more complex taste profiles.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee precise chicken doneness, preventing dryness while ensuring food safety.
- Consider alternative protein options like tofu or grilled shrimp for vegetarian or seafood variations of this versatile rice bowl.
- Prep ingredients beforehand for quick assembly, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknight meals or meal prepping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 525
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 66 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg