High Protein Rice Bowls

Name: High Protein Rice Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; Lime wedges for serving; 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded; 1 cup cooked tofu, cubed; 1 cup cooked shrimp

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

High protein rice bowls are a nutritious and satisfying meal option packed with flavor and essential nutrients.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-12-25T15:34:14.313Z

These high protein rice bowls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite proteins and vegetables to create a meal that suits your taste buds!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein to fuel your day
Versatile ingredients for endless combinations
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

      

A Nutritional Powerhouse

High protein rice bowls are a perfect blend of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and protein, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. The combination of brown rice and quinoa not only provides a hearty base but also ensures that you’re getting all nine essential amino acids. This makes these bowls a fantastic option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, as they can be customized to suit various dietary needs.

Incorporating ingredients like black beans and corn adds even more nutritional value. Black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Corn contributes vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and magnesium, rounding out the health benefits of this dish.

Endless Customization

One of the best features of high protein rice bowls is their versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. For example, if you prefer a different grain, feel free to replace brown rice and quinoa with farro or barley. Similarly, you can mix and match your vegetables and proteins, ensuring that every bowl is unique.

This recipe also allows you to cater to various dietary restrictions. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free meal or need to avoid specific allergens, you can tailor your rice bowl to fit your needs. The endless combinations of toppings and proteins mean you’ll never get bored with this meal option.

Quick and Convenient

In today’s fast-paced world, having quick meal options is essential, and high protein rice bowls fit the bill perfectly. With just a few cooked ingredients and a bit of chopping, you can have a nutritious meal ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when time is limited, but you still want to eat healthily.

Moreover, these bowls are perfect for meal prep. You can batch cook the rice, quinoa, and proteins at the beginning of the week, allowing you to assemble a delicious meal in minutes. Just store the components separately in the fridge, and when hunger strikes, simply combine, heat, and enjoy your healthy creation.

Ingredients

For the Rice Bowls

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges for serving

For the Protein Option

1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 cup cooked tofu, cubed
1 cup cooked shrimp

Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings!

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice and quinoa. Mix well to combine.

Add the Beans and Vegetables

Add the black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers to the rice mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.

Incorporate Your Protein

Choose your protein option and add it to the rice bowl. Mix until everything is well combined.

Garnish and Serve

Top with sliced avocado and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy your nutritious high protein rice bowl!

Storage Tips

To maximize freshness and taste, it's important to store your high protein rice bowls correctly. If you have leftovers, separate the components into airtight containers. Store the grains and proteins in one container, while keeping the vegetables and garnishes in another to prevent sogginess. This will allow you to enjoy your meal throughout the week without compromising quality.

When stored properly in the refrigerator, your rice bowl components can last for up to four days. You can also freeze individual portions for a quick meal option in the future. Just remember to defrost them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure even warming.

Serving Suggestions

High protein rice bowls are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of tahini for added creaminess and flavor. You can also spice things up with a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky kick.

For an extra layer of flavor, try marinating your proteins before adding them to the bowl. A simple marinade of olive oil, lime juice, and your choice of spices can elevate the taste significantly. Experimenting with different flavor profiles ensures that your rice bowls remain exciting and delicious every time you prepare them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can substitute white rice, but brown rice is higher in fiber and nutrients.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply replace the chicken or shrimp with extra tofu or add more beans.

→ Can I meal prep these bowls?

Absolutely! These bowls are great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or your favorite salad dressing.