Save Buffalo Chicken Bowls are a vibrant and flavorful meal packed with spicy buffalo chicken, fresh veggies, and a base of rice or quinoa. This American-inspired bowl is an easy, quick dinner that can satisfy a variety of dietary needs, including gluten-free options.
I first made these buffalo chicken bowls when craving a hearty but healthy dinner with a kick. They quickly became a weeknight favorite, especially because everyone can build their own perfect bowl.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 2 large
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Onion powder: ½ teaspoon
- Smoked paprika (optional): 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Buffalo sauce: ½ cup (Halal-certified preferred)
- Unsalted butter (optional): 2 tablespoons for extra creaminess
- Cooked brown rice, white rice, or quinoa: 2 cups (your choice)
- Corn kernels: 1 cup (frozen or fresh)
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Shredded lettuce or mixed greens: 1 cup
- Avocado: 1 sliced
- Sliced red onions (optional): ¼ cup
- Fresh cilantro (optional): 1 tablespoon, chopped
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional): ¼ cup
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional): ¼ cup (Halal-certified preferred)
- Extra buffalo sauce: for drizzling
- Lime juice: for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub seasonings on both sides of each breast.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high and add olive oil. Cook chicken for 6 to 8 minutes per side, until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and let rest.
- Coat in Buffalo Sauce:
- Melt butter in the skillet over low heat (if using), then add buffalo sauce and mix. Slice chicken, then toss pieces in buffalo sauce until well coated.
- Prepare the Bowl Base:
- Cook rice or quinoa according to package instructions for the base.
- Prepare the Veggies:
- Slice avocado, halve cherry tomatoes, chop cilantro, and slice red onions as desired.
- Assemble the Buffalo Chicken Bowls:
- Add rice or quinoa and greens to each bowl, then arrange corn, tomatoes, avocado, and buffalo chicken on top. Drizzle extra sauce as desired.
- Optional Toppings:
- Top with ranch or blue cheese dressing, crumbled feta, lime juice, and cilantro if desired.
Save Sharing these bowls with family makes it fun, since everyone gets to build their own and add their favorite toppings. They're always a hit on busy evenings, and even picky eaters love the customizable options.
Allergen Information
Contains chicken and dairy if using butter or cheese. Use certified sauces and dressings to ensure gluten-free and Halal compliance. Always review ingredient labels for allergies.
Required Tools
Large skillet, cooking pot, cutting board, and knife are all you need to prep and assemble these bowls.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 500 calories, 20g total fat, 40g carbohydrates, and 35g protein depending on ingredient choices and optional toppings.
Save Try these buffalo chicken bowls for your next meal and enjoy the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Customize the toppings and base for a fun, satisfying dinner every time.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
Yes, both quinoa and rice work well as bases and can be cooked according to your preference.
- → Is the buffalo sauce spicy?
Buffalo sauce typically has a medium heat and tangy flavor. Adjust quantity for desired spice level.
- → What vegetables are best for these bowls?
Classic options include cherry tomatoes, corn, avocado, lettuce, and red onions for freshness and color.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas and use the buffalo sauce for a plant-based alternative.
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free buffalo sauce and verify all packaged ingredients to keep the meal gluten-free.
- → What toppings add extra flavor?
Try crumbled feta, ranch or blue cheese dressing, extra buffalo sauce, lime juice, or fresh cilantro.