Savory Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: Savory Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or blue cheese); Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Cooking

I absolutely love making this Savory Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl for a quick and satisfying meal. The spicy kick of buffalo sauce combined with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh veggies creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Every bite is a delightful explosion of taste, and I find that it’s a great way to turn a simple weeknight dinner into something special. Plus, it’s super easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile dish that never gets boring!

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:30:27.737Z

I initially created this recipe when I discovered an abundance of leftover chicken and wanted to spice things up. After tossing my chicken in buffalo sauce and serving it over rice, I knew I had struck gold. The balance of heat from the sauce and the comforting rice makes it a repeat dish in our home.

The best part is how easy it is to adapt. I love adding in seasonal veggies or even avocado to keep it fresh. Plus, using leftover chicken minimizes prep time, which is a huge bonus on busy nights!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy buffalo flavor that excites the palate
Customizable with your favorite toppings and veggies
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight meals

Balancing Flavors

The key to a flavorful Savory Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl lies in the balance of spice and freshness. The buffalo sauce provides a bold kick, but pairing it with crisp lettuce and juicy cherry tomatoes helps mellow the heat and add a refreshing crunch. If you prefer a milder dish, you can easily substitute the buffalo sauce with a hot sauce that has a lower spice level or mix it with a bit of ranch dressing for creaminess without sacrificing flavor.

Don’t overlook the role of cheese in this recipe; it not only adds richness but also helps to cool down the spicy notes from the buffalo sauce. While cheddar provides a sharp contrast that complements the dish, blue cheese introduces a tangy creaminess that can elevate your bowl to new heights. Experimenting with different cheeses can lead to unique flavor experiences, so feel free to use what you have on hand.

Meal Prep and Storage

Making this rice bowl ahead of time can save you significant time on busy weeknights. Prepare the buffalo chicken and rice in advance; they can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot. Avoid microwaving the chicken, as it can turn rubbery if overheated.

If you're looking to freeze portions for later, the chicken freezes well. Just ensure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer bag or container. It should maintain optimal quality for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, defrost your buffalo chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving over freshly cooked rice. This makes for a convenient meal anytime without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your Savory Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl, consider adding other toppings that can enhance texture and flavor. Sliced avocados can provide a creamy richness, while a dollop of sour cream or yogurt adds tanginess to each bite. For added crunch, toss in some tortilla strips or crushed nuts. If you enjoy heat, a sprinkling of jalapeños will amplify that spicy experience.

Feel free to customize your bowl based on dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for roasted cauliflower or chickpeas seasoned with buffalo sauce. This substitution maintains the bold flavor while providing a hearty texture. Alternatively, for a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as cauliflower rice heats through much quicker and should be sautéed for just 2-3 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked rice
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or blue cheese)
Chopped green onions for garnish

Mix and match your favorite toppings!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until heated through.

Assemble the Rice Bowls

In bowls, layer cooked rice, followed by the buffalo chicken mixture. Top with shredded lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cheese. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Serve immediately for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For a milder version, use less buffalo sauce or opt for a mild variety. You can also swap the chicken for tofu for a vegetarian option.

Ingredient Tips

When selecting chicken for this recipe, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds a depth of flavor. If using raw chicken, roast or grill it with your favorite spices before shredding for the base of your bowl. The texture of shredded chicken soaks up the flavors of the buffalo sauce beautifully, delivering a satisfying bite.

Choosing the right rice is also essential for the perfect rice bowl. Long-grain rice provides a light and fluffy texture, while short-grain can become too sticky. For a different twist, you might try using quinoa or brown rice for added nutritional benefits. Just keep in mind that cooking times will vary; brown rice typically requires an additional 10-15 minutes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your buffalo chicken is too spicy, a simple solution is adding more shredded cheese or a dollop of yogurt to balance the heat. Additionally, incorporating more fresh vegetables can help diffuse the intensity, creating a more balanced bowl. Remember to taste as you go to adjust seasoning accordingly, ensuring every component complements each other.

In case your chicken mixture appears too dry while cooking, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or a bit more buffalo sauce to retain moisture. Conversely, if it's too saucy, allow it to cook a bit longer on medium-high heat to help reduce the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. Simply multiply the quantities according to the number of servings desired, keeping in mind that cooking times for the chicken may vary if cooking in larger batches. A large skillet or two will help evenly heat your chicken without overcrowding.

For meal prep warriors, doubling the ingredients allows you to make lunches for the week. Store them in meal prep containers in the fridge, and you’ll have quick access to a filling lunch. Just remember to keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent sogginess in the lettuce or tomatoes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience.

→ What can I substitute for rice?

Quinoa or cauliflower rice are great options for a different texture and flavor.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. You can adjust the amount to your preference.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and rice in advance. Just assemble the bowls right before serving.