Golden Rice and Chicken Buddha Bowl

A Rice and Chicken Buddha Bowl is a delightful and nourishing meal that combines a variety of flavors and textures. This versatile dish is perfect for a balanced lunch or dinner, offering a harmonious blend of protein, grains, and fresh vegetables. Easy to prepare and customize, it can quickly become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups brown rice
  • 400g chicken breast, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup roasted sunflower seeds
  • 4 tablespoons hummus
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Rice and Chicken Buddha Bowl

Cooking Method

  1. Cook the Rice: Start by rinsing the brown rice under cold water. In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.

  2. Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken in the skillet for 8-10 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown.

  3. Assemble the Bowl: Evenly distribute the cooked rice among four serving bowls. Top each bowl with the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado slices, and fresh spinach.

  4. Add the Finishing Touches: Sprinkle the roasted sunflower seeds over the bowls. Add a dollop of hummus to each and drizzle with lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutritional Value

The Rice and Chicken Buddha Bowl is a nutritional powerhouse, offering a balanced mix of macronutrients and micronutrients. The brown rice provides complex carbohydrates and fiber, essential for sustained energy and digestive health. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, important for muscle repair and maintenance. The assortment of vegetables adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals, while avocado and sunflower seeds offer healthy fats that are vital for heart health.

Suggested Side Dishes and Drinks

To complement this hearty meal, you may want to serve it with a light, crisp side salad such as a cucumber and dill salad or a tangy coleslaw. For beverages, a refreshing iced green tea or a citrus-infused sparkling water would pair well, enhancing the fresh flavors of the Buddha bowl without overpowering them. If you prefer something warmer, a ginger lemon tea can be a soothing choice, perfectly rounding out this nutritious and satisfying dish.

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