There’s something incredibly satisfying about a Buddha Bowl. It’s a colorful, nourishing, and customizable dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Every bite is packed with vibrant flavors, textures, and nutrients that leave you feeling energized and satisfied.

This recipe for a Buddha Bowl with Chicken is one of my absolute favorites because it strikes the perfect balance between health and indulgence. Imagine juicy, well-seasoned chicken, crisp veggies, creamy avocado, and a drizzle of flavorful dressing, all nestled over a bed of hearty grains. It’s the kind of meal that makes healthy eating feel like a treat rather than a chore.

Buddha bowls have gained popularity for their versatility and their ability to be a meal-prep dream. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a filling lunch, or even a meal to take on the go, this recipe has you covered. The best part? You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen.

Let’s dive into this nourishing, flavor-packed bowl that will become a staple in your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Customize: You can swap out grains, veggies, or protein to fit your taste or dietary needs.
• Nutrient-Packed: A great way to enjoy lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats in one meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make everything in advance and assemble throughout the week for effortless meals.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of seasonings, roasted vegetables, and dressing makes every bite delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Bowl:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
• 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
• 1 cup roasted sweet potatoes, diced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ½ avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons warm water (to thin)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make a Buddha Bowl with Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drizzle with lemon juice before removing it from the pan. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Tip: For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking!

Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add warm water, a little at a time, until you reach a pourable consistency. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Start with a base of quinoa or brown rice in your bowl. Then, arrange the baby spinach, roasted sweet potatoes, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, chickpeas, avocado, and sliced chicken on top. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch.

Step 5: Drizzle & Enjoy

Finish off your beautiful Buddha bowl with a generous drizzle of the creamy tahini dressing. Mix everything together, grab a fork, and dig in!

Helpful Tips

• Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken for extra chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh.
• Meal prep friendly: Cook the grains, roast the sweet potatoes, and prepare the dressing in advance for quick assembly during the week.
• Get creative: Add other toppings like sliced cucumbers, radishes, or a sprinkle of feta cheese.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 2–3 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop & Roasting
• Cuisine: Healthy, Fusion
• Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Option

Notes

• You can substitute quinoa with farro, bulgur, or couscous.
• Store leftover chicken separately to keep it from getting soggy.
• If making this ahead, store the dressing separately and drizzle just before eating.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 8g
• Healthy Fats: 18g

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! You can swap the chicken for shrimp, salmon, tofu, or beef. Just adjust the seasonings accordingly.

How long can I store this meal?

If stored properly in airtight containers, the components will last up to 4 days in the fridge. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

What’s the best way to reheat this bowl?

Reheat the chicken and sweet potatoes in a microwave or on the stovetop. The rest of the ingredients can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store all components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Dressing: Keep in a small jar in the fridge and shake before using.
• Reheating: Warm the grains, chicken, and sweet potatoes before assembling your bowl.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this Buddha Bowl, you might also love:

• One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole – Creamy, Cozy & So Easy!
• Vietnamese Chicken Salad (Gỏi Gà)
• Better-Than-Takeout Beijing Beef (Copycat Recipe)

Conclusion

This Buddha Bowl with Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a vibrant, feel-good dish that brings together fresh, wholesome ingredients in the most delicious way. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe that will keep you coming back for more.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to make it your own by switching up the ingredients. Enjoy every nourishing bite!

Would you like more ideas for variations? Let me know!

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