Savory Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: Savory Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup rice (white or brown); 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup corn (canned or frozen); 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

I love making this Savory Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl on busy weeknights when I'm craving something delicious yet easy to prepare. The combination of spicy buffalo chicken paired with fluffy rice and fresh veggies makes for a satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s one of those dishes that everyone in my family enjoys, and I can adjust the spice levels to suit my taste. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick dinner, this recipe has you covered!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:17:27.812Z

When I first experimented with combining buffalo chicken and rice, I was pleasantly surprised by how well all the flavors melded together. The heat from the buffalo sauce balances the coolness of fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro. To add depth, I like to sauté my chicken with garlic and onions, which elevates the dish even further. It’s a simple adjustment that makes a noticeable difference in taste!

One tip I’ve found invaluable is to let the chicken rest in the buffalo sauce for a few minutes before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy as it absorbs the spices. Every time I make this dish, it becomes a family favorite that disappears in no time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy and zesty buffalo chicken flavor for an exciting meal
Customizable with your favorite toppings and sides
Prep and cook in just 30 minutes for busy nights

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The star of this Savory Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl is undoubtedly the chicken breast, which acts as a protein-packed canvas for the bold flavors of buffalo sauce. Chicken breast cooks quickly and remains juicy when sautéed properly. For a more tender result, you can marinate the chicken in buffalo sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This extra step enhances the flavor deeply and helps to avoid dryness while cooking.

Rice serves as a perfect base, soaking up the spicy buffalo sauce's tangy intensity. If you prefer a nuttier flavor and a chewier texture, opt for brown rice. Keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook, about 40-45 minutes, compared to 15-20 minutes for white rice. It's crucial to monitor the rice, as overcooking can lead to mushiness, which won’t hold up next to the zesty chicken.

Techniques for Sautéing

When sautéing the chicken, ensure your skillet is well-heated before adding the olive oil. A hot skillet will help the chicken achieve a lovely golden brown color. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes without moving it around too much; this allows it to develop a nice crust and seal in juices. If your chicken starts to stick, it might be time to lower the heat slightly or add a touch more olive oil.

Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces before cooking. This ensures even cooking, reducing the risk of some pieces being overdone while others remain undercooked. If using frozen chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results; cooking it from frozen can lead to uneven cooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup rice (white or brown)
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to mix and match additional toppings to suit your preference!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Savory Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl:

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, cook the rice according to package instructions. Set aside once done.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Add Buffalo Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, pour in buffalo sauce and stir to coat well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated.

Combine Ingredients

In bowls, layer the cooked rice, followed by the buffalo chicken, and top with diced bell peppers, corn, avocado slices, and green onions.

Garnish and Serve

Finish with fresh cilantro and an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Enjoy your meal with your favorite beverage for a complete dining experience!

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Savory Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top to balance the spice with creaminess. A squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice can also brighten the dish and enhance the flavor profile. For a little crunch, add tortilla strips or crushed chips just before serving.

If you're looking for variety, try swapping out the bell peppers for shredded carrots or diced cucumbers for a fresh twist. You can also top your bowl with shredded cheese like cheddar or a spicy cheese blend for added richness. Feel free to customize your toppings according to what you have on hand!

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is great for meal prep! You can cook a larger batch of chicken and rice on the weekend and store portions in the fridge for quick assembly during the week. Just keep the buffalo sauce separate until you're ready to eat to maintain texture and prevent the rice from getting soggy. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and rice in airtight containers. Just be sure to cool the mixture completely before freezing; this helps avoid ice crystals and freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth for moisture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your buffalo chicken ends up too dry, it may be due to overcooking. To prevent this, keep a close eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer; chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Additionally, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking can help retain moisture before serving.

For those who find the dish too spicy, consider using a milder buffalo sauce or mixing it with a bit of ranch dressing for a creamy, less fiery sauce. Alternatively, you can incorporate more toppings like avocado or green onions to balance the heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey, tofu, or even shredded beef.

→ How can I make it milder?

To reduce the heat, mix the buffalo sauce with a bit of ranch dressing or use a milder sauce.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and rice in advance. Just assemble before serving for the best flavor.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a side salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread for a heartier meal.