Bojangles Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe – Cravefuly

If you’re planning to whip up a Bojangles chicken rice bowl, you might be wondering what would complement this hearty dish. A perfect pairing is soft and slightly sweet cornbread, which balances the savory flavors of the rice bowl beautifully—it’s a Southern staple that’s often hard to resist. 

For a refreshing contrast, coleslaw adds a crisp texture; you can choose a tangy vinegar-based dressing or a creamy blend to lighten up the meal and make it feel less heavy. 

To complete the experience, serve a glass of chilled sweet tea, bringing a touch of Southern charm to your table. The sweetness and caffeine kick make it an ideal thirst quencher. Now, let’s dive into the beauty of this recipe!

Have you ever craved a dish that’s warm, satisfying, and brings a smile to your face? For me, the Bojangles chicken rice bowl hits that sweet spot. This recipe combines pre-cooked grilled chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant vegetables, and a few savory spices. It’s comforting on a chilly evening and quick enough to make on a busy weekday.

You will also like the following lunch recipes!

• Best Bojangles Dirty Rice Recipe
• How to make Vegetarian Dirty Rice
• Easy Hello fresh meatballs with bulgogi sauce recipe

What is the Bojangles Chicken Rice Bowl?

Simply put, the Bojangles chicken rice bowl is a fusion of flavors that marries Southern cooking with straightforward meal prep. Utilizing pre-cooked chicken breast strips, this dish cuts down on cooking time while still delivering deliciousness. The tender rice and colorful veggies offer a beautiful plate that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the stomach.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Convenience of Pre-Cooked Chicken:
Using pre-cooked grilled chicken reduces your prep time significantly. You don’t have to wait for chicken to cook or season it from scratch. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet fulfilling.

2. Balanced Nutrition:
This rice bowl is rich in protein thanks to the chicken. Add in the sweet corn and peas for fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This dish provides a balanced meal that won’t weigh you down. It’s a fantastic way to get in your greens and maintain energy levels.

3. Customizable Ingredients:
You can tailor this recipe to your family’s tastes. If someone is not a fan of bell peppers, swap them out for chopped zucchini or use a medley of your favorite veggies. The possibilities are endless!

4. Quick Cooking Process:
With just a few steps and minimal cleanup, you can have this dish on the table in about 30 minutes. Perfect for those evenings when time is of the essence.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the cooking process, here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1 cup instant rice (uncooked)
• 1 package (9 ounces) pre-cooked grilled chicken breast strips
• ½ cup thawed sweet corn kernels
• ½ cup thawed green peas
• ½ cup thawed diced bell peppers (green)
• ¼ cup diced yellow onion
• 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground sage
• 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

How to Make This Bojangles Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients, giving everything a rinse, and chopping the vegetables as needed. Having everything at your fingertips is essential. Trust me; it makes cooking so much smoother.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken stock to a boil. Once boiling, add the instant rice. Stir, cover, and remove from heat. Let it stand for about five minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid. Fluff it with a fork afterward.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

While your rice cools, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant—about 4-5 minutes. You want to coax out that sweetness.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the veggies are ready, add them to the rice along with the thawed corn, peas, and grilled chicken strips. Stir everything together gently.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Sprinkle in the spices — oregano, sage, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and drizzle with lemon juice. Mix well. You can adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Once it’s all combined, serve hot in bowls and optionally garnish with a sprig of parsley or some shredded cheese for that extra flair.

Tips & Tricks

• Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot: This helps to avoid burning rice. It distributes heat more evenly.
• Cook in Batches: Double the recipe and freeze leftovers in individual portions for a quick meal later.
• Try Different Proteins: Switch from chicken to shrimp or tofu for a unique twist.
• Use Homemade Chicken Stock: If you have time, go for homemade stock—it adds a depth of flavor.
• Play with Spices: Experiment with smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

Nutrition Information

bojangles chicken rice bowl recipe nutrition facts

How Do You Store the Leftovers?

If you find yourself with leftovers (which can totally happen because this dish serves beautifully at gatherings), here’s what to do:

• Cool Down Quickly: Allow the chicken rice bowl to cool slightly before storing.
• Use Airtight Containers: Store it in an airtight container to keep freshness. It will stay good for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: If you’d like to freeze, portion it out and allow it to cool completely before placing in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to eat again, just reheat in the microwave until heated through. Easy peasy!

What Sides Would Complement the Bojangles Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe?

To round off your meal, consider these side dishes:

1. Garlic Breadsticks:
Garlic breadsticks are a classic, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauces in your rice bowl. Their crispy texture adds a lovely contrast to the softness of the chicken rice bowl.

2. Grilled Veggies:
Fire up the grill and toss on a mix of zucchini, eggplant, and asparagus. These veggies have a smoky depth that pairs nicely with your chicken rice bowl.

3. Cucumber Salad:
A simple salad of sliced cucumbers dressed lightly with vinegar and a dash of salt refreshes the palate. The lively crunch provides a beautiful balance.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Don’t fret if you’re missing an ingredient; substitutions exist:

1. Brown Rice:
Out of instant rice? Brown rice works too, although it will need a longer cooking time. Just adjust the liquid and time accordingly.

2. Frozen Vegetables:
No fresh veggies? Use frozen ones! They’re just as nutritious and convenient since they’re prepped in advance.

3. Canned Chicken:
If you’re in a pinch, canned chicken can stand in for grilled chicken strips. Rinse and drain before mixing with the bowl.

4. Lemon Juice Alternatives:
No fresh lemon juice? Use apple cider vinegar or a dash of balsamic for that needed acidity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

There you have it! The Bojangles chicken rice bowl is an amalgamation of convenience, taste, and health. Whether you’re feeding the family or simply indulging in a solo meal, it fits seamlessly into any scenario. 

Enjoy experimenting with flavors, and remember, this dish only improves with a little bit of your personal touch. Consider it a blank canvas—add, subtract, and create as you like!

In the end, it’s all about making cooking enjoyable and effortless. As a registered dietitian and passionate food enthusiast, I believe that the kitchen should be a place of joy, experimentation, and great food. Happy cooking!

You’ll also like these latest recipes!

• Best Bojangles Pinto Beans Recipe
• How to make Bojangles Honey Mustard
• Easy Bojangles Fried Chicken Recipe