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+ servings
A close-up of a creamy chicken and sun-dried tomato rice bowls recipe, garnished with fresh basil and herbs.

The Only Rice Bowls Recipes Recipe You’ll Need (2025)

Discover versatile and nutritious rice bowl recipes perfect for busy home cooks and meal prep enthusiasts. Explore fresh ingredients and modern lifestyle-friendly options, including keto choices.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Ingredients
  

For the Rice Bowl
  • 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes chopped
  • 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning your favorite blend
  • 2 tbsp salted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 8 oz dry shortcut pasta
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes optional
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 4 oz cream cheese cubed
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh Italian basil chopped
For Serving
  • 4 cups cooked rice your choice of grain

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and chili flakes (if using) to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the milk and cream cheese. Cook, stirring, until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Add the drained pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and grated parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
  6. Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
  7. Let the mixture rest for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. Serve the chicken pasta mixture over bowls of cooked rice.

Notes

This recipe is a base for creating your own unique rice bowls. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, proteins, or sauces to customize it to your taste. For a keto option, serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.

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