This Buffalo Chicken Bowl is a spicy, tangy, and hearty meal that combines everything you love about buffalo wings—without the mess. Tender chicken tossed in hot buffalo sauce is layered over rice or greens, balanced by cooling ranch or blue cheese, crisp veggies, and creamy avocado. It’s fast, protein-packed, and perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinner.
Main Ingredient: Chicken Breast (Lean, Tender & Spicy)
Chicken breasts work best here for lean protein that soaks up the bold buffalo flavor. Chicken thighs also work if you prefer extra juiciness.
Ingredients Breakdown
Protein
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ⅓ cup buffalo hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional for a classic buffalo finish)
Fresh Produce
- 1 cup romaine or mixed greens
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium carrot, shredded or thinly sliced
- 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 green onion, chopped
Base
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
- Optional: quinoa or mixed greens for a lighter version
Dressing & Extras
- ¼ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar (optional)
- Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
- Optional: drizzle of extra buffalo sauce or ranch
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Skillet or pan
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Pot or rice cooker
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 15–20 minutes
- Total time: ~35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
- Season diced chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
- Reduce heat and stir in buffalo sauce and butter. Cook for 1–2 minutes more until saucy.
2. Prep the Base and Veggies
- While chicken cooks, prep your base (rice or greens).
- Slice all fresh vegetables and avocado.
- If using rice, season with a bit of salt or a squeeze of lemon for flavor.
3. Assemble the Bowl
- Start with a scoop of rice or greens in each bowl.
- Top with buffalo chicken.
- Arrange tomatoes, carrots, celery, avocado, and greens around the chicken.
- Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions, herbs, and crumbled cheese if using.
What to Serve With It
- Crisp tortilla chips or pita wedges
- Roasted sweet potatoes or fries
- Sparkling lemonade or iced tea
- Cucumber salad for a cooling contrast
Tips and Variations
- Use grilled or air-fried chicken for a lighter version
- Make it low-carb with cauliflower rice or lettuce base
- Swap ranch for Greek yogurt mixed with lemon and dill for a healthy twist
- Add roasted chickpeas or black beans for extra fiber
- Make it spicier by adding cayenne or jalapeños
Storage and Meal Prep
- Store chicken, rice, and veggies separately for up to 3–4 days
- Assemble bowls fresh or pack in lunch containers
- Reheat chicken and rice; keep dressing and avocado separate until serving
Plating and Presentation Ideas
- Use wide bowls for clean layering
- Add colorful veggie strips in rows around the chicken
- Drizzle sauces in a crisscross or swirl
- Top with avocado slices and a lime wedge for a polished look
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Bowl is your go-to if you love bold flavor, quick cooking, and nourishing ingredients in one bowl. It’s great for weeknights, game days, or meal prepping with ease. Every bite hits that perfect combo of spicy, creamy, and fresh.
