Buffalo Chicken Bowls

Buffalo Chicken Bowls are a vibrant, veggie-loaded meal that's both spicy and satisfying. With tender chicken coated in tangy buffalo sauce and complemented by a cooling homemade ranch dressing, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. 

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp dried basil

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• ⅓ cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)

For the Herby Ranch Dressing:

• ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)

• 2 cloves garlic

• ¼ tsp apple cider vinegar

• 3–4 tbsp fresh chives

• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ¼ tsp salt (or more to taste)

For the Bowls:

• ½ cup long-grain rice (uncooked)

• 4 tbsp green onions, chopped

• ¼ cup red onion, chopped

• 1 small red bell pepper, chopped

• ¼ cup banana peppers, chopped

• ¼ cucumber, thinly sliced

• ⅓ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Rice: Begin by cooking the rice according to the package instructions, which typically takes about 20 minutes. While the rice is cooking, prepare the vegetables and chicken.

2. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes for even and quick cooking. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and dried basil.

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and cook, turning occasionally, for about 12 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

4. Make the Ranch Dressing: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the ranch dressing. In a small blender or food processor, combine sour cream, apple cider vinegar, garlic, chives, cilantro, onion powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.

5. Combine Chicken with Buffalo Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked through, reduce the heat to low. Add the buffalo sauce and butter to the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine and heat through.

6. Assemble the Bowls: To assemble, start with a base of rice in each bowl. Top with the buffalo chicken mixture. Add chopped green onions, red onion, red bell pepper, banana peppers, and cucumber. Sprinkle with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, if using, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Drizzle with the homemade ranch dressing and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal

• Protein: Approximately 35g

• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30g

• Fat: Approximately 20g

• Fiber: Approximately 3g

• Sugar: Approximately 5g