Name: Buffalo Chicken Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491444H38M36S
Total time: PT-491444H38M36S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (store‑bought or homemade); 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; 2 cups shredded lettuce or baby spinach; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup diced celery; 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing; 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional); 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)

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These Buffalo Chicken Bowls are a fiery, flavorful, and filling way to enjoy everything I love about buffalo wings—without the mess. Tender chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce is layered over fluffy rice and paired with crisp veggies, creamy ranch or blue cheese, and a drizzle of extra heat. It’s a quick, customizable meal that brings bold flavor to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these bowls come together so easily with just a few ingredients, and they’re great for both lunch and dinner. They’re high in protein, satisfying, and full of texture—from the crunchy veggies to the creamy dressing and spicy chicken. I can prep everything ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep, and switch up the toppings depending on what I have on hand. It’s like a buffalo wing night in a bowl—just healthier and easier to eat. Buffalo Chicken Bowls

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
Buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Cooked white or brown rice
Shredded lettuce or baby spinach
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Shredded carrots
Diced celery
Ranch or blue cheese dressing
Crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Green onions or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I start by warming up the cooked chicken and tossing it in buffalo sauce until fully coated.
In a serving bowl, I layer a scoop of rice as the base.
Then I add shredded lettuce or spinach on top of the rice for crunch and freshness.
I spoon the spicy buffalo chicken over the greens.
I top it with cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, and diced celery.
Finally, I drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over everything and sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese and green onions.
I serve the bowl warm or cold, depending on my mood.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 bowls. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prep if the chicken and rice are already cooked, or about 25–30 minutes total if I’m starting from scratch.

Variations

I sometimes use cauliflower instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
For a low-carb option, I swap the rice with cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage.
I’ve tried adding avocado slices for creaminess or a soft-boiled egg for extra protein.
To switch up the grains, I use quinoa or farro for a different texture.
I adjust the spice level by mixing the buffalo sauce with a bit of honey or using mild sauce.

storage/reheating

I store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. When I’m ready to eat, I reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop, then assemble the bowl fresh with cold toppings and dressing. If I’ve already made the bowl and stored it fully assembled, I just warm it gently and add a bit more sauce or dressing before serving. Buffalo Chicken Bowls

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, I use rotisserie or any leftover cooked chicken I have on hand. Just shred or chop it and toss it in warm buffalo sauce.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely. I keep the ingredients stored separately and build the bowls fresh each day. It keeps everything crisp and tasty.

What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?

I go with my favorite store-bought brand, but I’ve also made a simple homemade version with hot sauce, butter, and a little garlic powder.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I skip the cheese and use a dairy-free ranch dressing. The flavor is still amazing.

What goes well on the side?

I’ve served these bowls with tortilla chips, a simple green salad, or even some roasted sweet potatoes for a more complete meal.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Bowls are one of my favorite ways to enjoy spicy, satisfying flavors in a quick and easy meal. They’re bold, customizable, and perfect for busy days or meal prepping ahead. Whether I’m craving something spicy or just want to switch up my lunch routine, these bowls always deliver on flavor and comfort.