Healthy Chicken And Brown Rice Bowl

Name: Healthy Chicken And Brown Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions; Sesame seeds; Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce

Highlighted under: Fresh Daily Nutrition

I love making this Healthy Chicken and Brown Rice Bowl because it’s a complete meal packed with flavor and nutrition. Every bite bursts with freshness from the veggies and the succulent chicken. It’s a nourishing dish that keeps me full and energized throughout the day. Plus, I can customize it with my favorite toppings! Whether I’m having a busy weeknight dinner or prepping for lunch, this bowl is the perfect go-to option. Cooking everything in one pot makes cleanup a breeze, too!

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-02-23T20:10:36.854Z

Whenever I make this Healthy Chicken and Brown Rice Bowl, I experiment with different sauces and vegetables, making the dish truly my own. The secret is to sear the chicken well to achieve that nice, savory crust while ensuring it remains juicy inside. I often add fresh herbs at the end for a punch of flavor.

This recipe was born from my quest for a quick and nutritious meal that didn’t skimp on taste. The brown rice provides a wonderful nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken. I always have leftovers for lunch, which is an added bonus!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Wholesome ingredients that nourish your body
Flexibility to customize with your favorite veggies
One-pot meal for easy cleanup

Maximizing Flavor and Nutrition

The combination of ingredients in this Healthy Chicken and Brown Rice Bowl not only enhances flavor but also provides a well-rounded nutritional profile. Chicken breast is a lean protein source that helps in muscle repair and growth, making it perfect for a post-workout meal. The broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots add an array of vitamins and minerals, along with fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling satiated longer.

Each vegetable plays a unique role in the dish. Broccoli adds a crunchy texture and is rich in vitamin K and C. Red bell peppers contribute a natural sweetness and are a great source of antioxidants. Carrots bring additional sweetness and a vibrant color, making the dish visually appealing. This medley not only looks great but also provides essential nutrients that your body craves.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Sautéing the chicken properly is crucial for achieving a deliciously golden exterior while keeping it juicy inside. Make sure your skillet is well-heated before adding the chicken, which you can test by sprinkling a few drops of water. If they sizzle, you’re good to go! This technique helps lock in moisture, preventing the chicken from becoming dry. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

When adding the vegetables, timing is key to maintaining their crispness. Add them to the skillet after the chicken is fully cooked to avoid overcooking. Sauté for just 5-7 minutes until the veggies are vibrant and tender but still offer a slight snap when bitten into. This not only preserves their nutrients but also enhances the overall texture of the bowl.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients and pantry staples to make this delicious bowl.

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup carrots, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce

Mix and match your favorite vegetables to create a unique flavor profile each time!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a perfect Healthy Chicken and Brown Rice Bowl.

Cook the Rice

In a pot, cook the brown rice according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes until tender.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 7-10 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Add Vegetables

To the same skillet, add the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots. Stir everything together and sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender but still crisp.

Assemble the Bowl

In bowls, layer cooked brown rice, sautéed chicken, and vegetables. Top with your choice of toppings such as green onions or sesame seeds.

Enjoy your meal warm for the best flavor experience!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in any leftover vegetables or proteins you have on hand for an even heartier bowl.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep

This recipe is excellent for meal prepping, as both the chicken and vegetables can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. I often prepare a double batch of the components on Sundays for quick lunches throughout the week. Just store everything in airtight containers, and reheat portions in the microwave or stovetop when you’re ready to eat. The brown rice also freezes well, so you can make a bigger batch and save some for later.

If you're looking to save time during busy weeks, consider cooking the brown rice in a rice cooker. This allows you to focus on sautéing the chicken and vegetables without worrying about stirring the rice. Plus, a rice cooker typically yields perfectly fluffy rice!

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best parts of the Healthy Chicken and Brown Rice Bowl is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. For instance, try adding snap peas or zucchini for a different texture, or substitute kale or spinach for a leafy green boost. This flexibility not only keeps the dish exciting but also allows you to use seasonal produce.

For a flavor upgrade, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce, garlic, or even a tangy vinaigrette for about 30 minutes before sautéing. This step enhances the flavor profile and adds an extra depth of taste to your bowl. Additionally, experimenting with different toppings like chopped nuts or avocado can bring new textures and richness to each serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can use white rice, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

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

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can meal prep this dish and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ What sauces pair well with this bowl?

Soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a spicy peanut sauce would complement the flavors beautifully.