Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Asian For Nutritious Weekday Lunches
Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious lunch option that you can easily prepare during your busy weekdays? Look no further! These Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Asian are not only packed with flavor but also loaded with healthy ingredients that will keep you energized throughout the day. With just a few simple steps, you can create a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and honey. Pour the mixture over the chicken and stir to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets, sliced red bell pepper, and snap peas to the skillet. Stir to combine and cover the pan. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the jasmine rice according to package instructions if not pre-cooked.
- To assemble the bowls, place a generous scoop of jasmine rice at the bottom of each serving bowl.
- Top the rice with the chicken and vegetable mixture, making sure to include the delicious sauce.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Serve hot and enjoy your nutritious weekday lunch!
Why You Will Love These Chicken Rice Bowls
These easy chicken rice bowls are not only simple to make, but they are also incredibly versatile. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Feel free to swap out the vegetables for your favorites or add some extra protein, like tofu or shrimp.
The combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and fluffy jasmine rice creates a balanced meal that is both filling and nutritious. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
These chicken rice bowls are perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and portion them out for the week. Simply store the chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, simply microwave the bowl for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. This makes it an ideal option for busy lunches at work or school.
Variations to Try
If you want to mix things up, consider trying different sauces or marinades. Teriyaki sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a spicy Szechuan sauce can add a new twist to your chicken rice bowls. You can also experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice or quinoa, for a healthier alternative.
For those who love a little heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha on top of your bowl for an extra kick!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They will work well in this recipe, but you might find them a little less juicy than chicken thighs.
2. What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add any vegetables you like! Carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini would be great additions. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked properly.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, such as tamari or coconut aminos.
4. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Just ensure to season them well and cook them until they are golden brown and crispy.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Asian are a fantastic choice for nutritious weekday lunches. They are not only satisfying and flavorful but also quick to prepare. With a bit of meal prep, you can have delicious lunches ready to go for the entire week.
So why not give this recipe a try? You’ll love the combination of fresh ingredients and savory flavors that make for a delightful meal any day of the week!
Enjoy your cooking and happy eating!
