Buffalo Chicken Bowls

Why Make This Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Bowls are a fantastic meal choice for anyone who loves bold flavors and quick preparation. They bring together delicious, spicy buffalo chicken, fresh vegetables, and comforting rice in one satisfying bowl. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and a hit for lunch meal prep. Plus, you can customize each bowl to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish for the whole family.

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:

1. Begin by preparing the buffalo sauce. In a small bowl, combine the hot sauce and melted butter. Mix well and set aside.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Prepare the serving bowls by adding a base layer of cooked rice.
5. Divide the buffalo chicken evenly among the bowls, placing it over the rice.
6. Top each bowl with shredded lettuce and halved cherry tomatoes.
7. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
8. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions. If desired, add slices of avocado for extra creaminess.
9. Serve immediately while the chicken is hot, and enjoy the flavorful combination.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Bowls

Serve Buffalo Chicken Bowls warm, straight from the kitchen. They make for a hearty lunch or dinner. If you have guests, you can set up a DIY station where everyone can build their own bowl, choosing their favorite toppings.

How to Store Buffalo Chicken Bowls

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The bowls can stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave until warmed through. If you’re storing the ingredients separately, keep the buffalo chicken and the rice in separate containers to maintain texture.

Tips to Make Buffalo Chicken Bowls

• Adjust the spice level by using mild or extra hot sauce depending on your preference.
• Make sure the chicken is cut into even pieces for consistent cooking.
• Add extra toppings like diced celery or pickles for added crunch.
• Swap out the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.

Variation

You can try swapping the chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal. Additionally, you can turn this dish into a salad by serving it over a bed of fresh greens without rice.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly.

2. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the buffalo sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just heat it up when you’re ready to cook the chicken.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free if you use gluten-free hot sauce and ranch/dressing options. Always check labels to be sure.

4. Can I make these bowls vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with crispy tofu or grilled vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

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