Gluten Free Buffalo Chicken and Rice Bowls: A Quick and Easy Dinner Recipe
Looking for a spicy, protein-packed meal that’s gluten-free and easy to prepare? This Buffalo Chicken and Rice recipe is a delicious way to enjoy your favorite buffalo flavors in a nutritious, satisfying meal. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick dinner on a busy night, this dish is sure to please. With precooked chicken, buffalo sauce, and Seeds of Change Spanish Rice or your favorite rice packet, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Plus, this recipe offers options like adding quinoa and kale for an extra nutrient boost. Let’s dive into the recipe!
1/2cupbuffalo saucePrimal Kitchen and Frank’s Red Hot are great choices
1/2cuphomemade ranch dressingoptional, but highly recommended
1/2cupquinoa and kaleoptional, I use the frozen variety from Publix
Olive oil or avocado oil for cooking
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If you’re using precooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, simply shred it into bite-sized pieces using a fork or a food processor. If starting with frozen chicken, thaw it in the microwave or cook it on the stovetop frozen. This recipe works well with any tender chicken.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until warmed through, about 5-6 minutes.
Stir in buffalo sauce until the chicken is evenly coated. Add more or less sauce depending on your desired level of spice.
Step 2: Cook the Rice and Quinoa
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your Seeds of Change Spanish Rice according to the packet instructions. You can also substitute with regular rice, brown rice, white rice or your favorite flavored rice packet if preferred. I've used cilantro lime rice multiple times when I ran out of Spanish rice, and it tastes amazing in this recipe. If you’re using an instant pot, you can cook the rice in there for an easy, hands-off method.
Optional: Add quinoa and kale to the rice for extra protein and leafy greens. Heat in a separate pan or in the microwave until warmed through.
Step 3: Assemble the Bowls
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice and quinoa, if using, otherwise, just add your rice to a bowl.
Top with the buffalo chicken mixture, and then drizzle with ranch dressing.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Divide the mixture evenly into meal prep containers or serve immediately. If you’re prepping for the week, store each serving in an airtight container in the fridge.
Drizzle with homemade ranch dressing for that classic buffalo flavor. If you like a little extra crunch, add some cherry tomatoes or crunchy vegetables like celery and cucumbers.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Serve your Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl warm. This recipe is perfect for a quick meal time or easy dinner recipe. Pair with a side salad or enjoy it as-is for a complete high-protein meal.