why make this recipe
Buffalo Chicken Bowls are a delicious and easy way to enjoy the classic buffalo flavor in a fresh and filling meal. They combine tender chicken coated in spicy buffalo sauce with a variety of colorful toppings, served over a bed of rice. This dish is not only tasty but also versatile, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
how to make Buffalo Chicken Bowls
Ingredients :
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
- Optional: sliced avocado, for topping
Directions :
- Begin by preparing the buffalo sauce. In a small bowl, combine the hot sauce and melted butter. Mix well and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour the buffalo sauce over the cooked chicken. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Allow it to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, absorbing the sauce’s flavors.
- Prepare the serving bowls by adding a base layer of cooked rice.
- Divide the buffalo chicken evenly among the bowls, placing it over the rice.
- Top each bowl with shredded lettuce and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Garnish with thinly sliced green onions. If desired, add slices of avocado for extra creaminess.
- Serve immediately while the chicken is hot, and enjoy the flavorful combination.
how to serve Buffalo Chicken Bowls
Serve Buffalo Chicken Bowls warm or at room temperature. They are great on their own but can also be paired with additional sides. Consider serving with tortilla chips or celery sticks for a crunchy contrast.
how to store Buffalo Chicken Bowls
To store leftover Buffalo Chicken Bowls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the bowls until warmed through.
tips to make Buffalo Chicken Bowls
- Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on how spicy you like your food.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking.
- Add other toppings like corn, black beans, or bell peppers to customize the bowls.
variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by using different proteins such as grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Try different sauces like teriyaki or barbecue for a new twist on the flavors.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free hot sauce and ensure the dressing is also gluten-free for a safe option.
What can I use instead of rice?
You can substitute rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Buffalo Chicken Bowls
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings and Base
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
- Optional: sliced avocado, for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, combine the hot sauce and melted butter. Mix well and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Cooking
- Reduce the heat to low and pour the buffalo sauce over the cooked chicken. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Allow it to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, absorbing the sauce’s flavors.
Assembly
- Prepare the serving bowls by adding a base layer of cooked rice.
- Divide the buffalo chicken evenly among the bowls, placing it over the rice.
- Top each bowl with shredded lettuce and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Garnish with thinly sliced green onions. If desired, add slices of avocado for extra creaminess.
Serving
- Serve immediately while the chicken is hot, and enjoy the flavorful combination.