Spicy Asian Rice Bowl Recipe Chicken for College Students
As a college student, finding quick, affordable, and delicious meals can be a challenge. This spicy Asian rice bowl recipe with chicken is not only easy to prepare but also packs a punch of flavor that will satisfy your cravings. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up this vibrant dish any night of the week.
This recipe is ideal for meal prep or a quick dinner after a long day of classes. The balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates makes it a nutritious choice. Plus, the spicy sauce adds a delightful kick that elevates the entire dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this spicy Asian rice bowl will become a staple in your college cooking repertoire.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by cooking the jasmine rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced red bell pepper and broccoli florets. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to combine.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well coated in the sauce.
- To serve, place a generous scoop of cooked jasmine rice in a bowl, top with the spicy chicken and vegetable mixture, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Enjoy your spicy Asian rice bowl!
Why This Recipe Works for College Students
This spicy Asian rice bowl is perfect for college students for several reasons. First, it is budget-friendly; the ingredients are simple and can be found at any grocery store. Second, it is incredibly versatile; you can substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp, depending on your dietary preferences. Lastly, it is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Another great aspect of this recipe is its health benefits. Packed with lean protein from the chicken and plenty of vitamins from the vegetables, this dish supports your energy levels and keeps you feeling full longer. Eating well while studying is crucial, and this rice bowl helps you achieve that without sacrificing flavor.
Meal Prep Tips
One of the best ways to make this spicy Asian rice bowl even more convenient is to meal prep. You can cook a large batch of rice at the beginning of the week and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you time on busy nights.
Additionally, you can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time. Simply reheat it in the microwave when you’re ready to eat. This way, you can enjoy a home-cooked meal in minutes, which is a lifesaver during exam weeks or when you’re overwhelmed with assignments.
Variations to Try
If you want to mix things up, consider adding other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or zucchini. These can add different textures and flavors to your dish. You can also experiment with the sauce; adding a dash of lime juice or using teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce can create a new taste experience.
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with firm tofu. Simply press and cube the tofu, then sauté it until golden brown before adding the vegetables and sauce. This will provide a similar texture while keeping the dish plant-based.
Storing Leftovers
This spicy Asian rice bowl keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store the chicken and vegetable mixture separately from the rice to maintain the best texture. Reheat the rice and the stir-fry in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
If you want to store leftovers for longer, consider freezing the chicken and vegetable mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as it takes longer to cook than jasmine rice.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How spicy is this dish?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the amount of sriracha in the sauce. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
Can I add other proteins?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, or even plant-based proteins like tempeh or seitan for a different flavor profile.
In conclusion, this spicy Asian rice bowl recipe with chicken is the perfect solution for college students looking for a satisfying meal that is easy to prepare. With its flavorful ingredients and versatility, it can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Give it a try and see how it becomes a go-to recipe in your meal rotation!
