Save to Pinterest Tender chicken marinated in vibrant basil pesto, served over fluffy rice and topped with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, makes this Pesto Chicken Bowl a nourishing and flavorful meal. Perfectly balanced with protein, healthy fats, and crisp textures, it is an ideal choice for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
Save to Pinterest What's for Dinner Tonight? 🤔
Stop stressing. Get 10 fast recipes that actually work on busy nights.
Free. No spam. Just easy meals.
This Italian-inspired dish brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your table. The combination of warm, savory chicken and cold, refreshing vegetables creates a delightful contrast that keeps every bite interesting and satisfying.
Ingredients
Tired of Takeout? 🥡
Get 10 meals you can make faster than delivery arrives. Seriously.
One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
- Chicken & Marinade: 500 g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces), 4 tbsp basil pesto, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Rice: 240 g uncooked jasmine or basmati rice, 480 ml water, 1/2 tsp salt.
- Fresh Vegetables & Toppings: 200 g cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 medium cucumber (diced), 1 small red onion (thinly sliced), 1 medium avocado (sliced), 60 g baby spinach or mixed salad greens, 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional), fresh basil leaves for garnish.
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine chicken pieces, basil pesto, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well, cover, and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Cook the Rice
- Rinse rice under cold water until clear. Bring water and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes and fluff with a fork.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
- Prepare the Vegetables
- While the chicken and rice cook, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and slice the onion and avocado.
- Assemble the Bowls
- Divide the fluffed rice among 4 bowls. Top with the cooked chicken, fresh vegetables, and greens. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a large skillet ensures the chicken has enough space to brown properly rather than steaming in its own juices. For perfectly fluffy rice, always remember to let it rest covered for a few minutes after the heat is turned off.
Still Scrolling? You'll Love This 👇
Our best 20-minute dinners in one free pack — tried and tested by thousands.
Trusted by 10,000+ home cooks.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lower-carb option, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa. You can also elevate the flavors by adding crumbled feta cheese or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these bowls immediately for a warm meal or at room temperature. If storing for later, keep the rice, chicken, and fresh vegetables in separate containers to maintain the best texture and freshness.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this wholesome Pesto Chicken Bowl as a fresh and vibrant addition to your healthy recipe rotation. It is a meal that proves simple ingredients can create truly exceptional flavors.
Recipe Q&A
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to infuse the basil pesto flavors. For deeper flavor, you can refrigerate the marinated chicken for up to 2 hours before cooking.
- → Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade basil pesto works wonderfully and allows you to control the ingredients. Just ensure it has a similar consistency to store-bought varieties for even coating.
- → What rice alternatives work well for this bowl?
Cauliflower rice or quinoa make excellent lower-carb substitutes. Both cook quickly and complement the pesto flavors beautifully while maintaining the bowl's satisfying texture.
- → How do I store leftovers for meal prep?
Store each component separately in airtight containers. Keep rice, chicken, and vegetables in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the chicken and rice gently, then assemble with fresh vegetables before serving.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free pesto. Many traditional pesto brands contain gluten, so check labels carefully or prepare your own to ensure the dish remains completely gluten-free.
- → What other toppings can I add?
Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty tang, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze provides sweetness. Roasted red peppers, olives, or artichoke hearts also complement the Italian flavors beautifully.
