To craft this savory bowl, you will require the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into chunks and grilled
- 1 cup white rice, cooked and fluffed
- 1 cup mashed potatoes, seasoned
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
- 1 ripe avocado, cubed
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
Follow these straightforward steps to put together your Grilled Chicken & Veggie Zen Bowl:
- Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Grill chicken breast chunks for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juicy. Ensure there are nice char marks for flavor.
- Step 3: While the chicken cooks, steam broccoli florets in a pot until tender-crisp. Season lightly with salt.
- Step 4: Prepare creamy mashed potatoes. You can add butter, cream, or garlic for extra richness.
- Step 5: Cut a ripe avocado in half, remove the pit, and cube it. Sprinkle with salt and pepper for flavor.
- Step 6: To serve, create a bed of fluffy white rice in a bowl. Arrange grilled chicken, a scoop of mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, and fresh avocado cubes beautifully on top.
- Step 7: Finish with a sprinkle of ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Notes & Variations
This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Here are some ideas to modify it to your tastes:
- Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or sesame dressing for an additional punch of flavor.
- Incorporate different grains such as farro or barley for a different texture.
- Feel free to swap broccoli for other vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh for this recipe?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Just make sure to steam them briefly to maintain some crunch and flavor.
2. What is the best way to season the chicken?
Marinating the chicken in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite herbs for at least an hour enhances its flavor significantly.
3. How can I make the mashed potatoes creamy without using dairy?
You can substitute dairy with almond milk or coconut milk and add olive oil to achieve creaminess.
4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This bowl stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat before serving.
5. Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh and the mashed potatoes can be made with olive oil and plant-based milk.
Conclusion
The Grilled Chicken & Veggie Zen Bowl with Creamy Mash & Fluffy Rice is a delicious, balanced meal perfect for a busy weeknight or a meal prep option. With fresh ingredients and a multitude of variations, this dish can be tailored to suit every palate while nourishing your body. Enjoy exploring this wholesome and versatile recipe—you’ll likely want to add it to your regular meal rotation!
