Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Vietnam without leaving your kitchen? The "Protein Packed Banh Mi Bowl" is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, this bowl is not just a meal; it's a feast for the senses. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this nutritious dish that perfectly balances protein, crunch, and a hint of spice. Whether you're a busy professional or a home cook looking to impress, this recipe is your ticket to a delicious, healthy dining experience. Dive in and discover how to create this mouthwatering bowl that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup pickled carrots
- 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the rice according to package instructions, ensuring it's fluffy and fully cooked. Set aside and let cool slightly.
- If using pre-cooked chicken, shred it using two forks into small, bite-sized pieces. If cooking raw chicken, season with salt and pepper, then cook in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Slice cucumber into thin, uniform rounds. If using store-bought pickled carrots, drain them. If making your own, quickly pickle sliced carrots in a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt for at least 15 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with soy sauce, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated and absorbs the flavor.
- Assemble the bowl by first placing the cooked rice as the base layer. Arrange the shredded chicken on one side of the rice.
- Add the pickled carrots and cucumber slices around the chicken, creating a colorful and balanced presentation.
- Drizzle sriracha sauce over the top for added heat and flavor.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, torn or roughly chopped, to add a bright, herbal note to the dish.
- Serve immediately while the rice is warm and the ingredients are fresh. Optional: Add an extra splash of soy sauce or sriracha to taste.
Tips
- Perfect Rice: For the best texture, rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which will help achieve fluffy grains.
- Quick Pickling: If you’re short on time, store-bought pickled carrots can save you a step. However, making your own pickled carrots is incredibly easy and adds a fresh zing to the dish.
- Chicken Options: Feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time. Just shred and mix with soy sauce for a flavor boost!
- Customize Your Bowl: This recipe is versatile! Add other toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, or even a fried egg to elevate your Banh Mi Bowl experience.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the bowl immediately while the rice is warm. For an extra kick, provide additional sriracha or soy sauce on the side for guests to customize their heat levels.
- Herb Variations: While cilantro is traditional, feel free to experiment with other herbs like mint or Thai basil for a unique twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 40mg
