5 Easy-Peasy Buddha Bowls for Dinner (Featuring Shredded Precooked Chicken)
When you’re craving a delicious and healthy dinner but don’t have time to spend hours in the kitchen, Buddha bowls are the perfect solution! With shredded precooked chicken as the star protein, these bowls are quick to assemble, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable. Here are five easy recipes to get you started.
1. Southwest Chicken Buddha Bowl
Ingredients:
Base: Microwaveable cilantro-lime rice or quinoa
Protein: Shredded chicken mixed with taco seasoning
Veggies: Roasted corn (frozen works great!), black beans, diced tomatoes, and romaine lettuce
Toppings: Shredded cheddar, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream
Dressing: Salsa or creamy chipotle ranch
Why It’s Perfect for Dinner:
This bowl is hearty, flavorful, and has just the right kick to end your day on a high note.
2. BBQ Chicken Buddha Bowl
Ingredients:
Base: Quick-cook brown rice or cauliflower rice
Protein: Shredded chicken tossed with your favorite BBQ sauce
Veggies: Steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and roasted sweet potatoes (frozen sweet potato cubes work wonders!)
Toppings: Pickled onions and crispy fried onions
Dressing: Extra BBQ sauce or a drizzle of ranch
Why It’s Perfect for Dinner:
The smoky-sweet BBQ flavors combined with wholesome veggies make this bowl a comfort food classic.
3. Mediterranean Chicken Buddha Bowl
Ingredients:
Base: Store-bought tabbouleh or couscous
Protein: Shredded chicken with a sprinkle of oregano and garlic powder
Veggies: Sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, marinated artichoke hearts, and mixed greens
Toppings: Crumbled feta and kalamata olives
Dressing: Pre-made tzatziki or lemon-tahini sauce
Why It’s Perfect for Dinner:
Light yet satisfying, this bowl is packed with fresh Mediterranean flavors that transport you to a sunny seaside café.
4. Asian Sesame Chicken Buddha Bowl
Ingredients:
Base: Microwaveable jasmine rice or pre-cooked udon noodles
Protein: Shredded chicken mixed with soy sauce and sesame oil
Veggies: Shredded cabbage, matchstick carrots, steamed edamame, and sliced bell peppers
Toppings: Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds
Dressing: Store-bought sesame ginger dressing or hoisin sauce drizzle
Why It’s Perfect for Dinner:
This bowl is vibrant, savory, and bursting with Asian-inspired flavors in every bite.
5. Buffalo Chicken Buddha Bowl
Ingredients:
Base: Quick-cook farro or instant mashed cauliflower
Protein: Shredded chicken tossed with buffalo sauce
Veggies: Celery sticks, diced cucumber, and shredded lettuce
Toppings: Crumbled blue cheese and crispy croutons
Dressing: Ranch or blue cheese dressing
Why It’s Perfect for Dinner:
If you love buffalo wings, this bowl is a healthier, easier way to enjoy those tangy, spicy flavors without the mess.
Tips for Quick Buddha Bowl Prep:
1. Batch Cook: Keep cooked grains, roasted veggies, and shredded chicken on hand for easy assembly.
2. Use Pre-Made Dressings: Stock up on high-quality dressings to save time without sacrificing flavor.
3. Frozen Veggies are Your Friend: Steam them quickly for fresh-tasting veggies with no prep hassle.
4. Microwaveable Grains: Keep packets of pre-cooked rice, quinoa, or farro in your pantry for a no-fuss base.
These quick, easy Buddha bowls are perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want a healthy, no-stress dinner. Which one will you try tonight?
