Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl: The Easiest Weeknight Dinner

December 24, 2025

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Grilled chicken rice bowl perfection starts right here! This flavorful and healthy dish is a weeknight winner, combining tender grilled chicken with fluffy rice and your favorite toppings. A satisfying, customizable meal, my version of the grilled chicken rice bowl brings together simplicity and taste, just like my grandmother always did.

This recipe was inspired by countless summer evenings spent grilling with family. The aroma of chicken sizzling on the grill, the sounds of laughter, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal together—that's what this grilled chicken rice bowl is all about.

Why You Will Love This grilled chicken rice bowl Recipe

This grilled chicken rice bowl recipe is a total game changer for so many reasons! First, it's incredibly easy to make. Even on the busiest weeknights, you can whip up a healthy and satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes.

Secondly, the flavor is dynamite! The combination of smoky grilled chicken, fluffy rice, and your choice of toppings creates a symphony of tastes and textures. And let's not forget how customizable it is. Use whatever veggies you have on hand, swap out the rice, or experiment with different sauces to create your perfect grilled chicken rice bowl masterpiece.

Perhaps you have a craving for a Grilled Cod Rice Bowl sometime? Or what about a Skillet Tuna Rice Bowl? The possibilities are almost endless, and that is exactly the way I like it!

Ingredients Needed for This grilled chicken rice bowl Recipe

Here’s what you'll need to get started on your delicious grilled chicken rice bowl:

For the Chicken:

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice Bowl:

2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or your preference)
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup steamed broccoli florets
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup chopped green onions
2 tablespoons soy sauce or teriyaki sauce
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

How to Make This grilled chicken rice bowl Recipe

Let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own flavorful grilled chicken rice bowl:

Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and make sure they are well coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour in the refrigerator.
Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium high heat. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). A digital thermometer is your best friend here!
Rest and Slice: Remove the grilled chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Prepare the Rice: While the chicken is grilling, cook your rice according to package directions. Fluff with a fork once cooked.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice among bowls.
Add Chicken: Top each bowl with the sliced grilled chicken.
Add Toppings: Arrange avocado slices, broccoli florets, shredded carrots, and chopped green onions around the chicken.

Drizzle and Serve: Drizzle each bowl with soy sauce or teriyaki sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds (if using). Serve immediately.

How to Serve This grilled chicken rice bowl Recipe

This grilled chicken rice bowl is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your experience:

Serving Tips: Serve the bowl warm, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Pairing Ideas: A side of edamame or a refreshing cucumber salad complements the bowl perfectly.
Topping Recommendations: Consider adding pickled ginger, sriracha mayo, or a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for extra flavor and texture.
Plating Ideas: Arrange the toppings artfully around the chicken for a visually appealing presentation. Want a fun alternative? Try this recipe utilizing a Slow Cooker Chicken Rice Bowl concept.

How to Store This grilled chicken rice bowl Recipe

Proper storage will keep your leftovers tasting great!

Refrigeration Instructions: Store leftover grilled chicken and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Freezing Guidelines: The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer safe bag or container. It’s best to store the rice separate from the chicken in the freezer.
Reheating Tips: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Reheat the rice in the microwave with a tablespoon of water to prevent it from drying out.
Shelf Life Information: Cooked chicken will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator and rice last for 4-6 days.

Tips to Make This grilled chicken rice bowl Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your grilled chicken rice bowl is a success!

Ingredient Swaps: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice as a substitute for rice. Swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp.
Success Tips: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor. Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don't overcrowd the grill when cooking the chicken, as this can lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking.
Pro Tips for Best Results: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Helpful Notes for This grilled chicken rice bowl Recipe

A few extra notes for your success:

Ingredient Details: Use high quality soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for the best flavor.
Equipment Recommendations: A grill or grill pan is essential for cooking the chicken. A rice cooker can be helpful for perfectly cooked rice.

Variation of This grilled chicken rice bowl Recipe

Let's spice things up!

Seasonal Twists: Add roasted butternut squash and cranberries in the fall, or grilled corn and tomatoes in the summer.
Optional Versions: Try adding a spicy kick with sriracha or a sweet element with a drizzle of honey.
Creative Modifications: Create a burrito bowl version by adding black beans, corn, and salsa.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is typically in a grilled chicken rice bowl?

A grilled chicken rice bowl typically includes grilled chicken (breast or thighs), rice (white, brown, or cauliflower), and a variety of toppings such as vegetables, sauces, and seasonings. Common toppings include avocado, corn, beans, salsa, and a flavorful sauce like teriyaki or a creamy dressing.

How can I meal prep grilled chicken rice bowls?

To meal prep grilled chicken rice bowls, grill the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the rice and chop your desired toppings. Assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat or store the ingredients separately to prevent them from getting soggy.

What are some healthy variations of grilled chicken rice bowls?

For a healthier grilled chicken rice bowl, use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice. Load up on vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and spinach. Opt for lean grilled chicken breast and use lighter dressings or low-sodium sauces to control sodium intake.

What are the best sauces to use for a grilled chicken rice bowl?

Popular sauce options include teriyaki sauce, sriracha mayo, peanut sauce, or a simple lemon-herb vinaigrette. Choose sauces that complement your toppings and dietary preferences. Consider a light drizzle of olive oil with salt, pepper, and herbs for a healthier option.

Conclusion

I hope you love this grilled chicken rice bowl as much as my family and I do. It's the perfect combination of healthy, flavorful, and customizable, making it a winner for any occasion. So, fire up the grill and give this recipe a try—you won't be disappointed! Please feel free to leave any questions or comments below. I always love to hear from you. Enjoy this amazing grilled chicken rice bowl!