Buffalo Chicken Bowls
Unleash a symphony of flavor with these vibrant Zesty Buffalo Chicken Bowls! Tender, saucy buffalo chicken takes center stage, perfectly balanced by cool, crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and creamy dressing, all served atop a comforting bed of rice. This dish offers a satisfying kick and a medley of textures, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a lively lunch.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Keywords
Why This Recipe Delivers
- Packed with a bold, spicy, and tangy flavor that satisfies buffalo sauce cravings.
- Customizable to your preference with various toppings and dressings.
- A balanced and complete meal in one bowl, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Relatively quick to prepare, making it a great option for a fast, delicious dinner.
- Offers a delightful contrast of warm, saucy chicken with cool, crisp vegetables.
Ingredients
- 450 grams (1 pound) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) hot sauce (such as Frank's RedHot)
- 55 grams (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 30 ml (2 tablespoons) olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 400 grams (2 cups) cooked rice (white or brown)
- 80 grams (1 cup) shredded crisp lettuce (e.g., romaine or iceberg)
- 150 grams (1 cup) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 60 grams (1/2 cup) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 30 grams (1/4 cup) thinly sliced green onions (scallions)
- Optional: 1 ripe avocado, sliced, for topping
Instructions
- To create the classic buffalo sauce, combine the 120 ml (1/2 cup) hot sauce with the 55 grams (1/4 cup) of melted unsalted butter in a small, heatproof bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the two components are fully emulsified, creating a smooth, vibrant sauce. Set this aside.
- Heat 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the hot pan in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is beautifully browned on all sides and cooked through to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Remove any excess moisture that may accumulate to ensure proper browning.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour the prepared buffalo sauce directly over the chicken in the skillet. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece of chicken is completely coated in the fiery, buttery sauce. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. This low simmer allows the chicken to absorb the rich flavors of the buffalo sauce, ensuring maximum taste.
- While the chicken simmers, prepare your serving bowls. Place an even base layer of 200 grams (1 cup) of freshly cooked white or brown rice into each bowl.
- Carefully divide the simmering buffalo chicken mixture evenly among the prepared bowls, arranging it enticingly over the bed of rice.
- Generously top each bowl with 40 grams (1/2 cup) of shredded crisp lettuce and 75 grams (1/2 cup) of halved cherry tomatoes, adding a refreshing crunch and burst of freshness.
- Sprinkle 30 grams (1/4 cup) of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the toppings in each bowl, then generously drizzle with 30 ml (1/8 cup) of ranch or blue cheese dressing, according to your preference.
- Finish each bowl with a sprinkle of 15 grams (1/8 cup) of thinly sliced green onions for a mild oniony zest. For an added layer of creaminess and healthy fats, a few slices of ripe avocado can be arranged artfully on top.
- Serve the Buffalo Chicken Bowls immediately while the chicken is still warm, allowing the melted butter in the sauce to perfectly meld with the other fresh components. Enjoy the dynamic interplay of spicy, savory, and cool flavors.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet (cast iron or non-stick)
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Serving bowls
Essential Success Tips
- For the best buffalo flavor, always use a high-quality hot sauce designed for buffalo wings, like Frank's RedHot. Its vinegary tang is essential.
- Ensure your chicken pieces are cut uniformly for even cooking. Overcrowding the skillet will steam the chicken instead of browning it, so cook in batches if necessary.
- Don't overcook the chicken; it should be just cooked through and tender. Simmering in the sauce will complete the cooking process and infuse flavor.
- Customize your bowls with your favorite toppings. Other great additions include crumbled blue cheese, celery sticks, or a squeeze of lime.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking. For a milder bowl, reduce the hot sauce quantity or use a less potent brand.
Professional Cooking Secrets
- To achieve a restaurant-quality buffalo sauce, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder and a touch of Worcestershire sauce to the hot sauce and butter mixture for added depth and umami.
- For an extra layer of texture, after coating the chicken in buffalo sauce, briefly broil it for 1-2 minutes until the edges caramelize slightly, creating a richer, stickier coating.
- Prepare your rice and chop all your vegetables ahead of time. This 'mise en place' approach makes assembling the bowls incredibly fast when it's time to cook the chicken.
Notes
- Storage: Leftover buffalo chicken can be stored separately from the fresh toppings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before assembling fresh bowls.
- Meal Prep: Cook a larger batch of buffalo chicken and rice at the beginning of the week. Portion them out, and add fresh toppings just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Variations: For a lower-carb option, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or a larger portion of mixed greens. You can also use cooked shredded chicken for an even faster preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these Buffalo Chicken Bowls less spicy?
Absolutely! To reduce the heat, you can use less hot sauce or opt for a milder brand. You can also increase the amount of melted butter to mellow out the spice, or add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the buffalo sauce for a sweet and spicy balance.
What kind of rice is best for these bowls?
Both white and brown rice work wonderfully. White rice (like jasmine or basmati) offers a softer texture, while brown rice provides more fiber and a nuttier flavor. You can also use quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the buffalo chicken up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before assembling your bowls. It's best to add fresh toppings just before serving for optimal texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 480, Protein: 38g, Fat: 28g, Carbs: 25g (estimated per serving, varies with dressing and toppings)
Allergy Information
Contains dairy (butter, cheese, dressing). For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free butter substitute, dairy-free cheese, and a dairy-free ranch or blue cheese dressing. Contains gluten if using certain dressings; check labels for gluten-free options.
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