Bojangles Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

This chicken rice bowl brings together crispy, seasoned chicken and buttery rice, just like Bojangles!

Marinating the chicken in buttermilk makes it tender while also helping the seasoned coating stick better.

The rice needs to be cooked separately and then tossed with a little butter and seasoning for that Bojangles-style taste.

A few dashes of hot sauce mixed into the chicken batter give it just the right kick.

Adding a drizzle of creamy ranch or a scoop of coleslaw on top brings everything together!

How to Make Bojangles Chicken Rice Bowl

Ingredients

• 1 cup Rice
• 1 lb Chicken Breast (cubed)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 can Chicken Broth (32 oz.)
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Oregano
• 1/2 tsp Thyme
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.

Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked through.

Step 2:

Stir in the rice and coat it evenly with the chicken and oil mixture.

Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

Step 3:

Pour in the chicken broth and mix everything together.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.

Step 4:

Cover the pot and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and tender.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

Step 5:

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Serve hot and enjoy this comforting bowl of flavors.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Homemade Broth

If you have the time, homemade chicken broth brings a depth of flavor store-bought versions often lack, and it’s totally worth it!

Experiment with Proteins

Don’t hesitate to swap the chicken with shrimp or tofu, if you’re looking to switch things up a little bit and keep it exciting.

Batch Cooking

Consider doubling the recipe and freezing individual portions, so you’ll always have a quick meal ready to go when you’re short on time.

What to Serve with Bojangles Chicken Rice Bowl

Classic Coleslaw

A refreshing and crunchy coleslaw is always a good choice to complement your chicken rice bowl.

The creamy texture and fresh veggies add a contrasting bite.

Make it ahead and let it chill for a perfect pairing!

Southern Cornbread

Cornbread is a warm and buttery side that matches perfectly with a chicken rice bowl tradition.

It’s easy to make, and its subtle sweetness complements the savory flavors.

Plus, who doesn’t love southern comfort food together?

Grilled Asparagus

If you want something green and nutritious, try serving grilled asparagus on the side.

The slight char gives a tantalizing flavor while still being healthy.

It’s simple, quick to prepare, and it pairs well with the main dish!

Mango Salsa

Mango salsa adds a tropical twist!

Its sweet and spicy notes balance the savory elements of the bowl gracefully.

Chop up mango, cilantro, and a bit of jalapeño for an exciting side dish!

Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a tasty alternative to regular fries and offer a sweet-salty balance.

They bring a crispy texture that pairs great with a creamy sauce from the bowl.

Bake them to a golden perfection and serve them hot!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

For those who crave roasted goodness, try pairing Brussels sprouts with your rice bowl.

Roasting caramelizes the outer leaves, providing a crispy and rich flavor.

Toss them with a little olive oil and salt, and enjoy them fresh out of the oven!

Variations and Substitutions

Experimenting with this dish can be a lot of fun, allowing you to make it your own.

With endless possibilities, you can personalize it to suit your preferences.

Protein Options

Try replacing the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist!

They both work well and provide distinct flavors that work great with the rice.

Rice Choices

Use jasmine or brown rice for a simple swap that offers different textures and flavors.

Both options bring something unique to the table and are enjoyable in their way.

Spice it Up

Adjust the heat level with cayenne pepper or add some chili flakes if you prefer a spicier kick!

It’s an easy way to customize according to how spicy you like your food.

Stock Alternatives

Opt for homemade chicken stock to enhance the flavor profile.

If you’re short on time, your favorite store-bought brand works just fine too.

Vegetable Mix-Ins

Add in vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to up the nutritional value.

They add color and texture, making the bowl even more appealing.

How to Store Leftover Bojangles Chicken Rice Bowl

Airtight Containers

You should start by transferring your leftover chicken rice bowl into a clean, dry container with a tight-fitting lid.

This is important to keep the flavors fresh and to prevent any unwanted moisture from entering.

I always recommend using containers that are just the right size to minimize air exposure.

Refrigeration Tips

Put the airtight container in the refrigerator as soon as possible to prevent bacterial growth on your chicken rice bowl.

Your leftovers will stay good for up to 3-4 days, but make sure your fridge is running at or below 40°F (4°C).

Freezing for Later

You can also freeze your chicken rice bowl leftovers if you want to store them for a longer period.

I like to divide portions into separate containers for quick and easy future meals.

When properly stored in the freezer, these leftovers can last up to three months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Pot Size

It’s tempting to use whatever pot is handy, but size matters!

A large pot helps prevent rice from burning and sticking, so have a heavy-bottomed one ready.

Rushing the Simmering Process

You’ll feel eager to dig in, but patience is key here.

Allowing the rice to simmer too quickly leads to uneven cooking, so let it take its sweet time!

Skipping on Homemade Stock

Store-bought stock can be convenient, but it lacks the richness of homemade stock.

Taking the extra step to make your own creates a flavor that you just can’t replicate!

Enjoy cooking this delicious dish!