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Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowls

Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowls

The ultimate comfort food, Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowls combine spicy, tender chicken with creamy cheese and nutritious brown rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, these bowls are customizable to suit any taste. Give them a try tonight!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 38 ounces boneless skinless chicken breasts diced into 1/2 inch cubes
  • 1 teaspoon olive or canola oil
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup canned low sodium black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce Franks
  • 3 cups cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cup part-skim cheddar cheese or dairy-free cheddar
  • 1/4 cup chopped scallions

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Cutting Board
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Chef's Knife

Method
 

  1. In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are slightly caramelized and translucent. This step adds a sweet and savory base to the dish.
  2. Next, add the rinsed and drained black beans, along with paprika, cumin, and kosher salt. Stir to combine and let everything heat through for about 3 to 4 minutes. This allows the spices to meld with the beans.
  3. While that cooks, heat a large skillet over high heat. Once hot, spray it with oil and add the diced chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally to ensure even browning. You want the chicken to be golden and cooked through.
  4. Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a medium bowl and toss with the buffalo sauce. Ensure every piece is well-coated for a delicious kick!
  5. Next, take four bowls and pour 3/4 cup of cooked brown rice into each. This will act as the base for your Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowls.
  6. Top each bowl with 1/4 cup of the black bean mixture and a generous amount of cheddar cheese. The heat from the rice will begin to melt the cheese, creating a delightful texture.
  7. Now, divide the sauced chicken evenly over each bowl. Make sure to add a good amount for that satisfying bite!
  8. If you’re enjoying the bowls right away, I recommend melting the cheese further by microwaving each bowl for about 30 seconds. This step is optional but definitely enhances the experience.
  9. Finally, top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh scallions for a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
  10. These bowls can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply microwave for about 3 minutes or until heated through.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store the leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain freshness.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze individual portions for quick meals later, just cool completely before freezing.
  • Tip 3: Experiment with different toppings like diced avocados or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and flavor.
  • Tip 4: Serve with a side of fresh salad or some crunchy vegetables to round out the meal.
  • Tip 5: Enjoy these bowls on game day by setting up a DIY bowl station where guests can add their toppings!