Shredded Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: Shredded Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish; Sliced avocado (optional); Jalapeños (optional)

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food

I love making a Shredded Chicken Rice Bowl when I'm craving something both satisfying and wholesome. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing me to customize it with whatever ingredients I have on hand. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this bowl always feels like a comforting and filling meal.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-28T01:17:34.997Z

I remember the first time I tried making a Shredded Chicken Rice Bowl; I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it was. Cooking the chicken in a slow cooker made it incredibly tender, and I found that adding a splash of soy sauce while shredding it enhanced the flavor. Serving it over perfectly cooked rice with a sprinkle of green onions transformed the dish into an instant family favorite.

Over the years, I've experimented with different toppings, such as avocado and jalapeños, which elevate the whole experience. I recommend adjusting the spices according to your personal preference, as this dish is wonderfully adaptable. Don't rush the cooking process; letting the chicken soak in those flavors truly makes a difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender, succulent chicken that practically falls apart
Versatile toppings to suit any taste
Quick and easy prep, perfect for any night of the week

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a flavorful Shredded Chicken Rice Bowl lies in using high-quality chicken breasts and rich chicken broth. The chicken broth not only aids in cooking the chicken but also infuses it with a savory depth. Opting for low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish, while still delivering moisture. Additionally, the soy sauce adds an umami element that enhances the overall flavor profile, so don't skip it!

Rice serves as the foundation of this dish, soaking up all the delicious juices from the chicken. Choosing the right type of rice is important; short-grain rice will yield a stickier texture, while long-grain rice offers a fluffier base. If you prefer whole grain options, brown rice can be used, but adjust the cooking time to about 30-35 minutes. Rinsing the rice before cooking is crucial in removing excess starch, which helps achieve that light and fluffy result.

Shredding and Assembling

Shredding the chicken after it has been cooked in the broth allows the meat to absorb even more flavors. I recommend shredding it while it's still warm, as the fibers separate more easily. If you're using a stand mixer, you can place the cooked chicken in the bowl and use the paddle attachment on low speed for about 30 seconds to shred it quickly and uniformly.

Assembling your rice bowl is where you can really let your creativity shine. Consider adding both texture and temperature contrast with toppings like fresh avocado, which provides creaminess, or jalapeños for a spicy kick. If you're feeling adventurous, toss in some pickled vegetables for an additional tangy flavor. Once assembled, it's best to serve the bowl immediately, but you can also prepare the elements in advance and reheat them separately for a quick meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Shredded Chicken Rice Bowl:

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish
Sliced avocado (optional)
Jalapeños (optional)

Now that you have everything ready, let's move on to the cooking steps.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Shredded Chicken Rice Bowl:

Cook the Chicken

In a slow cooker, place the chicken breasts and pour in the chicken broth. Add the soy sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Prepare the Rice

While the chicken is cooking, rinse the rice under cold water. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, stir in the rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and the water is absorbed.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it. Mix the shredded chicken back with the broth for added moisture and flavor.

Assemble the Bowl

In a serving bowl, place a generous scoop of rice, top it with the shredded chicken, and finish with your choice of toppings, such as chopped green onions, avocado, or jalapeños.

Enjoy your delicious Shredded Chicken Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

For a little extra zing, consider adding lime juice or a spicy sauce to the bowl. Feel free to customize the toppings based on your favorite ingredients or what's in season.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is excellent for meal prep! You can cook a large batch of chicken in the slow cooker, shred it, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The rice can also be made in advance; simply store it in a separate container. When ready to enjoy, both can be reheated in the microwave, or for the chicken, consider warming it on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

For longer storage, the shredded chicken can be frozen in portions. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer bags. It should last up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when you're ready to use it, and then reheat on low in a pan until heated through.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this rice bowl to suit your dietary needs or preferences. For a lighter alternative, use shredded rotisserie chicken; it saves time and still packs a punch of flavor. You can also swap the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to make it lower in carbs. Besides the toppings mentioned, consider incorporating ingredients like corn, black beans, or roasted vegetables for more color and nutrition.

To add an extra layer of flavor, try experimenting with different sauces. You can drizzle a sesame or chili garlic sauce atop your assembled bowl, or toss the shredded chicken in teriyaki sauce before placing it on the rice for a sweet twist. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to adapt this recipe to your taste!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour.

→ What can I use instead of rice?

You can substitute rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even lettuce for a low-carb option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and just assemble the bowls right before eating.