If you’re craving a vibrant, wholesome meal that’s as satisfying as it is fresh, the Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is here to brighten your day. This bowl combines tender, juicy grilled chicken with creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and sweet cherry tomatoes all nestled on a bed of fluffy white rice. It’s a colorful harmony of textures and flavors that’s simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner but special enough to impress your friends or family. Trust me, once you try this, it will become one of your go-to recipes for a nourishing, delicious meal in no time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step to creating a meal bursting with flavor, texture, and freshness. Each component plays its part perfectly: the rice forms a soft and neutral base, the chicken brings warmth and richness, and the avocado, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes provide a refreshing, crisp contrast that enlivens every bite.
- 1 cup cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati): Choose jasmine for a fragrant aroma or basmati for a light, fluffy texture that complements the bowl beautifully.
- 1 chicken breast, cubed: Cubing the chicken ensures quick, even cooking and keeps each bite tender.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity note and helps the chicken crisp up nicely without sticking.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with a warm, savory depth that’s both comforting and flavorful.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a touch of smoky sweetness and a gorgeous color to the chicken pieces.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors in the bowl.
- 1 avocado, sliced: Its creamy texture contrasts perfectly against the sharper veggies and spices.
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced: Offers cool crunch and a subtly sweet note that lightens the dish.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursting with juicy sweetness, they add a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of parsley brightens up the dish visually and adds a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Perfect the Rice Base
Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions—this means about 15 minutes or so, depending on your rice choice. Fluff it nicely with a fork once cooked, so it’s light and airy, and set aside. This simple step lays the foundation for the entire dish, ensuring every bite has that soft, slightly chewy base you’ll love.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While your rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the cubed chicken breast with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to give it a fragrant seasoning. Place the chicken into the hot pan and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until the pieces are golden and cooked through. This is where your kitchen will fill with that irresistible aroma that’s part smoky, part savory—absolutely mouthwatering.
Step 3: Prepare Fresh Veggies and Avocado
While the chicken cooks, slice your avocado and cucumber, and halve the cherry tomatoes. These fresh ingredients add beautiful texture and brightness. The creamy avocado balances the spiced chicken perfectly, while the crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes bring refreshing bursts of flavor to the bowl.
Step 4: Assemble Your Bowl
Grab a large bowl and start by spreading out the cooked rice evenly. Then artfully arrange the grilled chicken, avocado slices, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes on top. This layering creates an inviting presentation that’s both colorful and appetizing. The dish practically begs you to dig in right away!
Step 5: Final Touches for Extra Flavor
Your bowl is fantastic as is, but if you want to amp it up just a little, drizzle with a bit of soy sauce or squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. These simple additions add a subtle tang or umami note that rounds out all the flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
To take this dish from delightful to dazzling, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top just before serving. Parsley adds a pop of vibrant green and a light herby flavor that elevates the entire bowl. You can also add a few chili flakes if you like a little heat or a dash of toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch.
Side Dishes
This versatile bowl pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to complement the fresh veggies. Alternatively, a cup of miso soup or a side of steamed edamame makes for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or shake up your usual presentation, serve the components deconstructed on a platter so everyone can build their own bowl. Using small bowls for each ingredient also turns this into a fun, interactive dining experience. For a grab-and-go option, pack it all neatly in a meal prep container with compartments to keep everything fresh.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the components separately for best results. Keep the rice and chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Fresh veggies and avocado are best added fresh but can be refrigerated for a day if sliced carefully and covered.
Freezing
The cooked chicken and rice freeze well if stored properly in a freezer-safe container. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to eat. Avoid freezing the avocado, cucumber, and tomatoes as they lose their pleasant texture once thawed.
Reheating
Reheat the rice and chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep the rice moist. Add the fresh veggies and avocado after reheating to maintain their crispness and freshness.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and a chewier texture. Just keep in mind it takes longer to cook, so plan accordingly.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Just store the cooked ingredients separately from the fresh vegetables and avocado to keep everything tasting fresh throughout the week.
What can I substitute if I don’t have paprika?
You can use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, or simply substitute with chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like some heat.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the grilled chicken for grilled tofu or chickpeas seasoned the same way for a plant-based twist.
What is the best way to ripen an avocado quickly?
Place the avocado in a brown paper bag with an apple or banana for a day or two to speed up ripening naturally.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is one of those magical meals that feels both indulgent and healthy, fresh yet comforting. It’s easy to make, colorful on the plate, and bursting with delicious flavors in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding loved ones, this bowl is sure to become a cherished favorite. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes is a quick and wholesome meal perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner. Featuring tender, flavorful chicken cooked in a skillet with garlic and paprika, served over fluffy white rice with fresh avocado, crisp cucumber, and juicy cherry tomatoes, this bowl combines vibrant textures and tastes for a delicious and healthy dish.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 cup cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati)
Chicken
- 1 chicken breast, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Vegetables & Garnish
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Rice: Prepare the rice according to the package instructions, ensuring it is fluffy but not mushy. Once cooked, fluff with a fork to separate the grains and set it aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the cubed chicken breast with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare Vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, slice the avocado and cucumber, and halve the cherry tomatoes to have fresh, ready-to-assemble ingredients.
- Assemble Bowl: In a large serving bowl, arrange the cooked rice as the base. Top with the cooked chicken, then evenly distribute the avocado slices, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes on top for an appealing presentation.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve the bowl as is or drizzle with soy sauce or fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavors according to your preference.
Notes
- You can substitute white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in olive oil and spices before cooking.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice over the avocado to prevent browning if not serving immediately.
- Serve with a side of steamed greens or a simple salad for a more balanced meal.
