Epic Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado Salsa & Cucumber Crunch

An irresistible, colorful rice bowl featuring juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado salsa, and crisp cucumber—it’s a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this bowl combines tender, smoky chicken with bright, creamy, and crunchy elements—all layered over fluffy rice. It’s hearty yet fresh, full of textures and vibrant flavors, and ideal for meal prep or a family dinner without fuss.

ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Ground cumin, paprika, chili powder or taco seasoning

• Cooked rice (white, brown, or your favorite grain)

• For the Avocado Salsa:

  • Ripe avocado, diced

  • Cherry tomatoes, halved

  • Red onion, finely chopped

  • Lime juice

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Salt and pepper

• For the Cucumber Crunch:

  • English cucumber, diced

  • Rice vinegar or lime juice

  • A pinch of salt and sugar

• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce or cabbage, black beans, corn, shredded cheese, sliced jalapeño, hot sauce, or Greek yogurt/sour cream

directions

1. I start by prepping the chicken: I whisk olive oil with cumin, paprika, chili powder (or taco seasoning), salt, and pepper, then coat the chicken evenly.

2. I grill the chicken over medium-high heat (or sear in a skillet) for about 6–7 minutes per side, until it’s cooked through and has a nice char. I let it rest before slicing it into strips.

3. While the chicken rests, I cook rice according to package instructions or reheat pre-cooked rice.

4. I toss diced cucumber with a splash of rice vinegar (or lime juice), plus salt and a pinch of sugar—this quick pickle adds crisp brightness.

5. I combine avocado, tomato, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make a creamy, vibrant salsa.

6. I build the bowls: I start with a base of rice, top with sliced grilled chicken, spoon in the avocado salsa and cucumber pickle, and finish with any optional add-ins.

7. I give it a final touch with extra lime wedges, hot sauce, or a drizzle of Greek yogurt or sour cream if I want added creaminess.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 bowls. Prep time is around 10 minutes, cooking takes about 20 minutes, and assembly just a few minutes—so you’re ready to eat in roughly 30 minutes total.

Variations

• Spicy option: I add diced jalapeño to the salsa or sprinkle hot sauce on top.

• Tex-Mex twist: I include black beans, corn, and a squeeze of queso fresco or cotija.

• Herbed rice: I stir lime zest and chopped cilantro into cooked rice for extra flavor.

• Sheet-pan version: I roast the seasoned chicken and vegetables (like bell peppers and onions) together and build the bowls from the sheet pan results.

storage/reheating

I store leftover chicken, rice, salsa, and cucumber separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to eat, I reheat the chicken and rice, then assemble fresh salsa and cucumber just before serving for brightness and crispness.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein?

Yes—I often swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, steak, or even crispy tofu—just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is the rice bowl gluten-free?

Absolutely—as long as taco seasoning or marinades are gluten-free, the bowl remains free from wheat.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes—just skip any cheese or Greek yogurt topping. It’s creamy and flavorful without any dairy.

Can I prep this in advance?

Definitely—I grill chicken, cook rice, prep salsa and cucumber, then refrigerate everything separately. Reheat and assemble when ready—it’s perfect for effortless lunches.

What can I serve alongside?

I serve these bowls with warm tortillas or chips on the side, or a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a full spread.

Conclusion

I find this Epic Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado Salsa & Cucumber Crunch to be the ultimate blend of tasty, healthful, and satisfying—all in one bowl. It’s versatile, colorful, and easy to adapt, making it my favorite go-to for busy nights or meal prep. Let me know if you’d like ideas for sauces or seasonal swaps!