Description
Savory grilled chicken rice bowls blend Mediterranean flavors with wholesome ingredients for a quick, satisfying meal. Tender marinated chicken, fluffy rice, and zesty toppings create a balanced dinner you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 large chicken breasts (or 4 thighs), boneless and skinless
Marinade and Seasonings:
- 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Craft a zesty marinade by whisking together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small mixing container.
- Submerge chicken in the marinade within a sealed container or zip-top bag, refrigerating for 30 minutes to 8 hours to infuse robust flavors.
- Thoroughly rinse rice under cold water until liquid runs transparent.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a saucepan over medium temperature, gently toasting rice for 1-2 minutes to enhance nutty undertones.
- Pour chicken broth and salt into the rice, bringing to a vigorous boil, then reduce heat to low, covering and simmering for 15-20 minutes until liquid absorbs and rice becomes tender.
- Allow rice to rest, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high, ensuring proper temperature for perfect sear.
- Extract chicken from marinade and grill 6-8 minutes per side, targeting internal temperature of 165F (74C) for safe consumption.
- Rest grilled chicken for 5 minutes before slicing to preserve juiciness.
- Construct rice bowls by layering cooked rice, sliced grilled chicken, and selected steamed or roasted vegetables.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley and serve alongside lemon wedges for a bright, citrusy finish.
Notes
- Boost Marinade Flavor by adding a touch of honey or brown sugar for caramelization and depth.
- Customize Rice Options by substituting white rice with quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for varied nutrition and dietary needs.
- Prep Chicken Perfectly by patting it dry before grilling to ensure a crispy exterior and prevent steaming.
- Enhance Meal Versatility by preparing extra portions for meal prepping or creating quick lunch variations throughout the week.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 14400 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 52 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg