Dinner

Buffalo Chicken Bowls Recipe

Byrami Hayes January 18, 2026January 18, 2026

Introduction

Buffalo Chicken Bowls offer a deliciously spicy and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare. Combining tender chicken tossed in classic buffalo sauce with fresh vegetables and rice, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.

A white bowl filled with a layered dish starting with a base of white rice on one side, topped with a layer of diced cooked chicken coated in a bright orange sauce, garnished with chopped green onions and drizzled with creamy white dressing. Next to the chicken, there is sliced avocado fanned out in green and yellow tones. On the opposite side, shredded light green lettuce forms a bed with halved cherry tomatoes in bright red and orange colors, shredded yellow and white cheese, and crumbly white cheese scattered with more creamy white dressing over the top. The bowl sits on a wooden board over a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
Optional: sliced avocado, for topping

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the hot sauce and melted butter to prepare the buffalo sauce. Mix well and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
Step 3: Reduce heat to low and pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken. Stir to coat evenly and let simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Prepare serving bowls by placing a layer of cooked rice at the bottom.
Step 5: Divide the buffalo chicken evenly over the rice in each bowl.
Step 6: Top with shredded lettuce and halved cherry tomatoes.
Step 7: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing on top.
Step 8: Garnish with sliced green onions and, if desired, add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Step 9: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your flavorful buffalo chicken bowl.

Tips & Variations

For a milder version, reduce the amount of hot sauce or use a mild buffalo sauce.
Swap rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different base.
Add black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
Use Greek yogurt instead of ranch or blue cheese dressing for a lighter topping.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove to keep the chicken moist, and add fresh toppings after warming for best results.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with several colorful layers: the base layer is white rice, topped with shredded light green lettuce spread across the bowl; on one side, there are diced pieces of glazed orange chicken, lightly drizzled with white creamy sauce and sprinkled with chopped green onions. Next to the chicken, there are bright green slices of avocado fanned out. At the top, there are halved cherry tomatoes sitting on the lettuce, and a small pile of shredded yellow and white cheese. Crumbled white cheese is scattered over the lettuce with more creamy white sauce drizzled on top. The bowl sits on a wooden board with a white marbled texture surface underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and offer juicier, more flavorful meat. Cook them thoroughly using the same method but adjust timing if needed.

How spicy are Buffalo Chicken Bowls?

The heat level depends on the hot sauce used. Frank’s RedHot has a moderate spice; reduce the amount or choose a milder sauce if you prefer less heat.