Healthy Chicken And Avocado Rice Bowl

Name: Healthy Chicken And Avocado Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cups spinach; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Nourishing Home Kitchen

I love making a Healthy Chicken And Avocado Rice Bowl because it’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen as it’s easy to whip up on busy weeknights or whenever I want something satisfying yet wholesome. The combination of tender chicken, creamy avocado, and flavorful rice makes for a perfect meal that fuels my day. Plus, it’s fully customizable to include any of my favorite veggies, keeping things fresh and exciting each time I prepare it.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:00:45.436Z

When preparing this Healthy Chicken And Avocado Rice Bowl, I usually marinate the chicken in a mix of lime juice, garlic, and spices for a burst of flavor. The marination really enhances the chicken's taste and ensures it remains juicy during cooking. I particularly enjoy using brown rice because it adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber compared to white rice.

After cooking the chicken, I toss in some colorful bell peppers and spinach. Not only does this add nutritional benefits, but it also makes the dish visually appealing. I finish off by adding fresh avocado and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, creating a meal that is satisfying and delightful!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein and healthy fats
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite veggies and spices

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting the best ingredients is key to achieving a flavorful Healthy Chicken And Avocado Rice Bowl. For the chicken, opt for fresh, organic breast meat if possible, as it tends to be more tender and juicy. Marinating the chicken in olive oil and lime juice not only boosts flavor but also helps keep it moist during cooking. If you're looking to add a bit of a smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika in your marinade.

When it comes to the rice, brown rice is a superb choice due to its nutty flavor and high fiber content, which contributes to a satisfying meal. However, you can also experiment with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly, as quinoa typically takes about 15 minutes to cook, while cauliflower rice can be sautéed in just a few minutes.

Techniques for Perfecting Your Bowl

Cooking the chicken evenly is crucial for a perfect bowl. Ensure that the skillet is preheated to medium heat before adding your marinated chicken. This allows it to sear properly, developing a golden-brown crust. Stir occasionally, but avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing. If the chicken pieces are too cramped, consider cooking them in batches to ensure even cooking.

Sautéing the vegetables in the same skillet after cooking the chicken not only saves on cleaning but also infuses the veggies with the remaining flavors. Keep an eye on them; you want them to soften just enough to retain some crunch. Aim for vibrant colors—when the spinach is vibrant green, and the bell peppers are slightly blistered, they’re ready to serve! This not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures all ingredients harmonize.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Chicken and Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 avocado, sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cups spinach
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Instructions:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the diced chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink. Remove from heat.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped bell peppers and spinach. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until just tender.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer the cooked brown rice, sautéed vegetables, and cooked chicken. Top with slices of avocado and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a dash of soy sauce or hot sauce while cooking the chicken. You can also substitute quinoa for rice for a unique twist.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the standout features of the Healthy Chicken and Avocado Rice Bowl is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the bell peppers for other favorite vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas. Just remember to chop them uniformly for even cooking. You can also experiment with spices; adding cumin or chili powder can offer an exciting twist to the flavor profile.

If you're looking to make this meal plant-based, consider using tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken. Marinate those in the same olive oil and lime juice mixture to keep the flavor consistent. Tofu can absorb flavors beautifully, and it provides a great protein source. Just ensure that you press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking for better texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe not only shines as a fresh meal but can also be prepped ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen, making the chicken even more delicious when cooked. Similarly, cooked rice can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to five days, making this bowl perfect for meal prep.

When reheating leftovers, add a splash of water to the rice or vegetables to prevent them from drying out. For best results, microwave in short increments, stirring in between. Additionally, keep the avocado separate until you’re ready to serve; this prevents browning and ensures it stays creamy and fresh.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this bowl vegetarian?

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

→ What can I use instead of brown rice?

You may substitute it with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even white rice if you prefer.

→ How can I store the leftovers?

Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or omit any sauces that may contain gluten.