Chicken Rice Bowls with Avocado and Broccoli
Chicken rice bowls have become a weeknight staple for busy families and health-conscious eaters alike. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables makes for a satisfying and nourishing meal that’s easy to prepare. Our take on this popular dish features the creamy richness of avocado and the satisfying crunch of broccoli florets, creating a flavor and texture profile that’s simply irresistible.
These chicken rice bowls are not only delicious, but they’re also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner option or a meal-prep friendly lunch, this recipe checks all the boxes. With its vibrant colors, balanced macronutrients, and blend of comforting and fresh flavors, it’s no wonder that chicken rice bowls have become a dinnertime staple in households across the country.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
What sets these chicken rice bowls apart is the perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The tender, juicy chicken paired with the creamy avocado and the crisp, slightly charred broccoli creates a mouthwatering experience that will have you coming back for seconds. Plus, the recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal-prep Sundays.
Another reason to love this dish is its nutritional value. Chicken is a lean protein source, while avocado and broccoli provide a wealth of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This combination makes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that will keep you feeling full and energized throughout the day.
Finally, the versatility of this recipe is a true standout. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your dietary needs or personal preferences, making it a great option for families with diverse tastes or dietary restrictions. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, a dairy-free version, or a protein-packed meal, this chicken rice bowl recipe has you covered.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Chicken Rice Bowls with Avocado and Broccoli ❓
• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 1 large avocado, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
The beauty of this Chicken Rice Bowls with Avocado and Broccoli recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense vegetables creates the delicious and satisfying flavor profile that has made these types of recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Chicken Rice Bowls with Avocado and Broccoli Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the chicken is evenly coated.
• Step 3: Spread the seasoned chicken in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Step 4: During the last 5 minutes of the chicken’s cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the baking sheet and toss to combine. Roast until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
• Step 5: Remove the chicken and broccoli from the oven and let cool slightly.
• Step 6: In a serving bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, roasted chicken, and roasted broccoli. Top with the diced avocado.
• Step 7: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Chicken Rice Bowls with Avocado and Broccoli!
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
Compared to traditional chicken and rice dishes that can take up to 45 minutes to prepare, this Chicken Rice Bowls with Avocado and Broccoli recipe saves you 33% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fat: 19g
• Fiber: 9g
• Sodium: 331mg
These Chicken Rice Bowls with Avocado and Broccoli provide approximately 72% of your daily protein requirements and 36% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Replace the brown rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to reduce the carbohydrate content.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Omit the avocado and use a creamy, dairy-free sauce or dressing, such as a cashew-based sauce or a lemon-tahini dressing.
• Added protein: Top the bowls with a fried or poached egg for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or shredded kale or spinach to increase the vegetable content.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Chicken Rice Bowls with Avocado and Broccoli.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a complete meal.
• Complement the bowls with a refreshing cucumber and mint salad or a zesty pineapple salsa.
• For a family-style meal, serve the Chicken Rice Bowls with Avocado and Broccoli alongside roasted sweet potato wedges and a side of garlic-parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Create a colorful and nutritious lunch platter by arranging the bowls alongside sliced bell peppers, baby carrots, and hummus or tzatziki dip.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Undercooking the broccoli: Roast the broccoli for the full 5 minutes to ensure it’s tender-crisp, rather than leaving it undercooked and still crunchy.
• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Be sure to toss the chicken with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to ensure it has plenty of flavor.
• Forgetting to let the chicken rest: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before adding it to the bowls, as this will help the juices redistribute and keep the meat tender and juicy.
• Overripening the avocado: Choose an avocado that is ripe but still slightly firm, as an overly soft avocado can become mushy and difficult to dice.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Chicken Rice Bowls with Avocado and Broccoli retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the chicken and broccoli components in advance, store them separately in freezer-safe bags or containers, and assemble the bowls just before serving. The unbaked components can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Freezing baked: Assemble the complete bowls, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each portion individually in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the frozen or refrigerated bowls in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave the bowls in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed.
❓ FAQs
Can I make these Chicken Rice Bowls ahead of time?
Absolutely! The components of this recipe can be prepared in advance and assembled just before serving. The chicken and broccoli can be roasted and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply combine the cooked ingredients with the rice and avocado.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can easily substitute the chicken with other proteins, such as shrimp, tofu, or even roasted salmon or black beans. Simply adjust the cooking time and seasoning as needed to accommodate the new protein source.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can omit the avocado and instead use a creamy, dairy-free sauce or dressing, such as a cashew-based sauce or a lemon-tahini dressing. You can also substitute the avocado with a dairy-free alternative, like mashed or sliced coconut or almond-based cheese.
What if the chicken or broccoli comes out overcooked or undercooked?
If the chicken is overcooked and dry, try tossing it with a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of low-sodium chicken broth to rehydrate it. For undercooked chicken, simply return it to the oven for a few more minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If the broccoli is overcooked and soft, you can sauté it briefly in a hot pan with a bit of olive oil to crisp it up. If it’s undercooked, roast it for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Can I add any extra vegetables or toppings to this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly versatile, and you can easily customize it by adding extra vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or shredded kale or spinach. You can also top the bowls with a fried or poached egg for an additional protein boost, or garnish them with fresh herbs, toasted nuts, or a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese.
Conclusion
These Chicken Rice Bowls with Avocado and Broccoli represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a meal-prep friendly lunch, they’re sure to impress with their vibrant colors, balanced nutrition, and delightful combination of textures. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Chicken Rice Bowls demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly. So, the next time you’re craving a nutritious and satisfying meal, give this recipe a try and experience the joy of a well-balanced and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
