Table of Contents
This recipe puts together juicy chicken, oven-roasted sweet potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, and wild rice with sliced almonds. Then I top everything with a creamy cilantro-lime dressing. It reminds me a bit of a sweet potato buddha bowl or a “taco bell chicken power bowl,” but with my own spin. I love that you get a balanced mix of vegetables, carbs, and protein in one dish. Plus, the variations are endless.
I’m excited to share my tips and stories with you. Ready to dig in?
Ingredients You’ll Need
I like to keep these ingredients on hand so I can whip up a chicken power bowl whenever the craving hits. This recipe serves about 6 people.
2 large sweet potatoes
5 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 head of broccoli
1 head of cauliflower
240 g (about 8.5 oz) wild rice mix (long grain & wild rice)
¼ cup sliced almonds
Salt and pepper to taste
2 chicken breasts (or shredded rotisserie chicken)
2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
1 head romaine lettuce
Creamy cilantro-lime dressing
Pico de gallo (optional)
Step-by-Step: Making Your Chicken Power Bowl
I’m a busy mom, so I appreciate power bowl recipes that don’t require fancy skills. If you can chop, mix, and roast, you’re good to go. Here’s the rundown:
Preheat your oven to 220°C (about 425°F).
Prep the sweet potatoes.
- Peel and cut your 2 large sweet potatoes into small cubes. Toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
Prep the broccoli and cauliflower.
- Rinse and cut 1 head of broccoli and 1 head of cauliflower into bite-size florets.
- In a bowl, mix them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them on a separate baking sheet.
Roast the veggies.
- Slide both sheets into the oven.
- Roast for 20–30 minutes, flipping everything every 10 minutes for even browning.
- Keep an eye on them. You want golden edges, not burnt bits.
Cook the wild rice mix.
- Once it’s done, stir in ¼ cup sliced almonds. This adds a delicate crunch and nutty taste.
Cook the chicken.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet and fry the chicken until it’s fully cooked.
- Season with 2 tablespoons lemon pepper (or your favorite spice mix).
Wash and chop your lettuce.
- Rinse a head of romaine lettuce and cut into strips.
- Pat it dry, so it stays crisp.
Assemble your bowls.
- Start with a layer of lettuce.
- Top with roasted veggies, a scoop of wild rice, and chicken.
- Drizzle cilantro-lime dressing over the top.
- Add pico de gallo if you like a little extra freshness.
Done! You’ve got a protein bowl that looks gorgeous and tastes even better.
Simple Tips for Success
Below are some pointers that help me keep this healthy dinner stress-free:
- Prep in advance: If you’re aiming for meal prep, roast the veggies and cook the rice on Sunday. Store them in separate containers. Then, just cook or reheat your chicken when you’re ready.
- Keep dressing separate: If you plan to store bowls for lunches, add the dressing right before you eat. It keeps your lettuce from getting soggy.
- Adjust the oven temperature: If your veggies are cooking too fast, lower the heat to 400°F. If they’re not browning, give it a bit more time.
- Try different grains: Brown rice, quinoa, or farro all work well in a power bowl.
- Taste as you go: I always sprinkle a pinch of salt or pepper after each step to build layers of flavor.
Making a protein power bowl recipe is less about strict rules and more about having fun. You’ll find your own rhythm once you do it a couple of times.
Linking Up Some Dessert Fun
After enjoying a healthy bowl, sometimes I crave a little sweet pick-me-up. If that sounds like you, let me point you to a few fun treats that I’ve loved making lately:
- Strawberry Donuts with Glaze – Easy Baked Donut Recipe
These are baked, not fried, and they have a delightful strawberry flavor. Perfect if you want a light dessert that still feels special. - Heart-Shaped Pop Tart Recipe: Easy Homemade Treats
If you’re feeling nostalgic, these pop tarts are a must. They’re great for holidays or weekend brunch with the family. - Cupid Crunch Valentine’s Day Trail Mix – Sweet & Easy Snack
Perfect for movie nights or a quick treat when you want something crunchy, sweet, and fun.
I love balancing a healthy protein bowl with a little sweet indulgence. It keeps life enjoyable and reminds us that food should be both nourishing and joyful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I get a lot of questions about power bowls and how to customize them. Below are the top ones I hear most often. Hopefully, they clear up any doubts you may have!
Yes! Feel free to use any grain you like. Brown rice, white rice, quinoa, or even barley can work. The wild rice mix has a nutty taste, but if you prefer something simpler, go for plain brown rice. The important thing is you have a filling base that supports your protein and veggies in this chicken power bowl.
If you’re doing chicken power bowl meal prep, you can store the components in the fridge for up to four days. Keep the dressing and lettuce separate, so they stay fresher. Reheat the chicken, rice, and roasted veggies in the microwave or eat them cold—it’s delicious either way.
Not necessarily. Sweet potatoes add sweetness and extra vitamins, but regular potatoes or even carrots work. If you prefer a classic sweet potato buddha bowl, keep them in. But don’t be afraid to experiment. Roasted parsnips or butternut squash can add a lovely twist.
That depends on your ingredients and portion sizes. Typically, a single serving has around 520 calories. You’re getting protein from the chicken, fiber from the veggies, and healthy carbs from the rice. If you’re curious about taco bell chicken power bowl nutrition, the homemade version gives you more control over what goes in, so it can be healthier overall.
To capture that chicken power bowl Taco Bell recipe vibe, add guacamole, shredded cheese, and maybe a spoonful of sour cream. Swap the cilantro dressing for a chipotle sauce or taco sauce. Including some black beans or corn also boosts that Tex-Mex flavor.
Absolutely! Skip the chicken and use chickpeas, black beans, or tofu for a veggie power bowl. If you want a vegan version, use plant-based dressing and be sure any seasonings are vegan-friendly. The roasted veggies, rice, and almonds remain the same. It’s still a protein-packed meal thanks to the beans or lentils.
Fun Flavor Variations
I’m all about switching things up in the kitchen. Here are some creative twists you can try:
- Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes to your chicken or dressing. This makes it taste closer to a taco bell chicken power bowl if you enjoy a spicy note. - Cheesy Goodness
Sprinkle shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese on top. My husband loves a cheesy version because it feels more indulgent. - Mediterranean Flair
Swap cilantro-lime dressing for a yogurt-cucumber sauce (like tzatziki). Include olives, cucumber, and fresh tomatoes. It’s a different spin but still a power bowl at heart. - Crunchy Seeds
If you’re not an almond fan, try sunflower or pumpkin seeds. They bring a similar crunchy element. - Grain Free
Skip the rice and add extra roasted veggies. Or use cauliflower rice if you want fewer carbs.
These ideas let you customize your protein power bowl recipes to match your family’s tastes. You can keep it simple or get fancy—it’s up to you!
Storing Leftovers and Meal Prep Magic
If you’re like me and enjoy cooking once to eat multiple times, this recipe is a dream. Here’s how I handle meal prep:
- Separate Containers
After roasting, let the veggies cool, then pop them into individual airtight containers. Do the same with the rice and chicken. This makes it easy to grab just what you need. - Dressing On the Side
Keep your cilantro-lime dressing in a small jar. Dress your bowl right before eating for the freshest taste. - Heat or Eat Cold
Some days, I like a warm bowl. Other days, I just toss everything together straight from the fridge. The flavors remain bold and comforting either way.
I’ve noticed that preparing a few containers of chicken power bowl ingredients at the start of the week saves a lot of time. My kids even pack leftovers for school lunches. It’s a step up from a simple sandwich, and I love that they’re getting more nutrients.
Tasty Sides and Serving Suggestions
- Extra Citrus: Hand out lime wedges so everyone can squeeze a bit more zing on their bowl.
- Guacamole or Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds healthy fats and a smooth texture.
- Salsa or Hot Sauce: For those who like a kick, a dash of your favorite hot sauce never hurts.
- Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or a bit of feta can bring extra richness.
This meal doesn’t really need a side dish because it’s a full power bowl on its own. But if I have time, I’ll bake some tortilla chips or slice a crusty bread loaf to go along with it. My husband loves dipping bread into the leftover dressing—he calls it his secret treat.
How to Store and Reheat
- Fridge: Keep chicken, rice, and veggies in separate airtight containers. They stay fresh for 3–4 days.
- Reheat: You can warm them in the oven or microwave. Just be sure not to overdo it, or the chicken may get dry.
- Dressing: Store in a sealed jar. It usually lasts 3–5 days in the fridge if it’s homemade. Check store-bought dressing labels for exact dates.
- Lettuce: Rinse and dry it, then store in a plastic bag with a paper towel to absorb moisture. That way, it stays crisp.
Meal prep is a lifesaver. There’s such satisfaction in opening the fridge and seeing all your bowls ready to go. On hectic mornings, I’ll throw everything into a lunch container. When lunchtime arrives, I have a homemade power bowl that tastes fresh and bright.
Chicken Power Bowl with Roasted Veggies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Mains
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American, Healthy Bowls
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This chicken power bowl is a healthy and flavorful meal featuring oven-roasted sweet potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, wild rice, and juicy chicken, all drizzled with a creamy cilantro-lime dressing. It’s packed with protein, easy to meal prep, and perfect for a balanced and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 5 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 240g (8.5 oz) wild rice mix (long grain & wild rice)
- ¼ cup sliced almonds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 chicken breasts (or shredded rotisserie chicken)
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup creamy cilantro-lime dressing
- ½ cup pico de gallo (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
- Prepare sweet potatoes: Toss cubed sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread on a baking sheet.
- Prepare broccoli & cauliflower: In a separate bowl, toss the florets with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on another baking sheet.
- Roast vegetables: Bake both trays for 20–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Cook wild rice mix according to package instructions. Stir in the sliced almonds before serving.
- Cook chicken: Slice chicken into cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan and cook until golden brown. Season with lemon pepper.
- Assemble bowls: Start with a base of romaine lettuce, then add roasted vegetables, wild rice, and chicken. Drizzle with cilantro-lime dressing.
- Top with pico de gallo if desired. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes or other veggies.
- Use quinoa or brown rice instead of wild rice.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days; keep dressing separate to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: ~520 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: chicken power bowl, protein power bowl, power bowl recipe, healthy dinner, meal prep, veggie power bowl, chicken power bowl meal prep
Save This Recipe for Later
If you love pinning recipes for later (like I do!), here are two fun pin titles you could use when saving this recipe to Pinterest. Feel free to tweak them or use them as-is:
- “Colorful Chicken Power Bowl: Your New Favorite Meal Prep!”
Save it here: Chicken Power Bowl with Roasted Veggies – Easy & Healthy - “Oven-Roasted Chicken Power Bowl: Healthy & Tasty Dinner!”
Pin it for later: Chicken Power Bowl with Roasted Veggies – High Protein & Healthy
I find Pinterest to be such a handy place to gather meal ideas. It’s like having a digital cookbook that’s always growing.
