Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever tasted a dish that feels like a warm hug on your plate? The Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes is one such creation. Imagine succulent grilled chicken seasoned to perfection, nestled atop a fluffy bed of rice, and accompanied by the refreshing crunch of cucumbers and the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a delightful medley of colors and textures that make it visually appealing.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of summer gatherings with family and friends. We would gather around the grill, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying this vibrant bowl of goodness. Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this grilled chicken rice bowl is perfect for any occasion. Anticipate an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more!
Key Ingredients For Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for a generous serving; adjust based on your guest count.
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Cooked Rice: White or brown rice works well; ensure it’s fluffy and warm for the best texture.
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Fresh Avocado: Choose ripe avocados for creaminess; they add richness to the bowl.
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Cucumber: Opt for English cucumbers for their crispness; slice them thinly for easy eating.
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Cherry Tomatoes: Look for vibrant red tomatoes; they offer sweetness and color contrast.
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance flavors during grilling.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate the taste of all ingredients.
For the Sauce:
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the entire dish and adds tanginess.
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Honey: A touch of honey balances the acidity with natural sweetness in the sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended. Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
Second Step: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). Remove chicken from the marinade and discard any excess liquid. Grill each breast for approximately 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
Third Step: Cook the Rice
While the chicken grills, cook your rice according to package instructions if not already prepared. Fluff it with a fork once done.
Fourth Step: Slice Fresh Ingredients
As the chicken rests after grilling, slice your avocado, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. Aim for bite-sized pieces that will complement every spoonful.
Fifth Step: Assemble Your Bowls
Start by placing a generous scoop of rice at the bottom of each serving bowl. Top with sliced grilled chicken, avocado slices, cucumber pieces, and cherry tomatoes arranged beautifully around.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra olive oil or your favorite dressing for the perfect finishing touch.
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
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Marinate Longer: If time permits, marinate chicken overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh produce enhances both flavor and nutritional value significantly.
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Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add other toppings like corn or black beans for variety; they pair wonderfully!
Presentation Ideas
This Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
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Fresh Herbs: Garnish your bowl with fresh cilantro or parsley for added flavor and a pop of color.
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Citrus Zest: A sprinkle of lime or lemon zest can enhance the brightness of the dish and complement the avocado.
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Crunchy Nuts: Top with sliced almonds or peanuts for a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy avocado.
Nutritional Benefits
The Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes offers various nutritional benefits. The chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and growth. Avocados are rich in healthy fats, promoting heart health and providing a good source of vitamins. Cucumbers add hydration and fiber, while cherry tomatoes deliver antioxidants that support overall health. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that fuels your body.
How to Customize Your Bowl
You can easily customize this Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding different vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch. Swap out the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a low-carb option. Additionally, feel free to experiment with various dressings, such as a tangy vinaigrette or a spicy sriracha sauce. The possibilities are endless!
Storage Tips
To maintain freshness, store leftover components of your Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl separately. Place the grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the avocado and cucumbers separate to prevent browning and sogginess. You can also freeze any leftover rice to use later. When you’re ready to enjoy your bowl again, simply reheat the chicken and rice while keeping the fresh toppings aside.
FAQs
What is the best way to grill chicken for this recipe?
For an Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes, marinate your chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before grilling. Aim for medium-high heat on your grill. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Let it rest before slicing; this keeps the meat juicy.
Can I make this rice bowl ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing an Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes ahead of time is easy. Cook all components separately and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble your bowl just before serving to keep everything fresh. Just remember to add avocados last since they tend to brown quickly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl is perfect for meal prep. Portion out servings into meal prep containers and layer ingredients neatly. This not only saves time during busy weekdays but also ensures you have healthy meals ready when hunger strikes.
What can I substitute for rice in this recipe?
If you want alternatives to rice in your Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes, consider using quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrients. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini as a base instead of traditional rice; both options provide great flavor without the carbs!
Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Irresistible Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl. Juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, crunchy cucumbers, and sweet cherry tomatoes come together on a fluffy rice base, creating a vibrant meal that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp honey (for sauce)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Place chicken in a resealable bag and pour marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F). Remove chicken from marinade and discard excess liquid. Grill each breast for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Let rest before slicing.
- Prepare rice according to package instructions while the chicken grills.
- Slice avocados, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- In bowls, layer rice first, then top with grilled chicken slices, avocado, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and honey for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 500g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 115mg