This Sweetgreen-inspired Crispy Rice Bowl is a delicious, wholesome meal packed with flavor, textures, and nutrients. Combining wild rice, crisp arugula, vibrant veggies, blackened chicken, and a creamy, spicy cashew dressing, this bowl is the perfect balance of indulgent and nutritious. Great for lunch or dinner, it’s a restaurant favorite you can now make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with Flavor: The smoky blackened chicken, spicy dressing, and crisp veggies create a satisfying taste explosion.
Nutritious and Balanced: Loaded with protein, healthy fats, and greens, this bowl is as nourishing as it is delicious.
Budget-Friendly: A homemade version of the restaurant classic at a fraction of the cost.
Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Bowl:

1 chicken breast
1 1/2 cups cooked wild rice
5 oz arugula
1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup carrots, julienned
1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 cup almonds, chopped
1/2 cup puffed rice cereal

For the Blackened Chicken:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon oregano
1/4 teaspoon thyme
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Spicy Cashew Dressing:

1/4 cup cashew butter
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (unseasoned)
1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/2 lime, juiced
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
1/8 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice

Cook the wild rice according to package instructions. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Blackened Chicken

In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
Rub the spice mixture onto both sides of the chicken breast.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden, blackened crust. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Cashew Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together cashew butter, water, rice vinegar, sesame oil, maple syrup, lime juice, minced garlic, minced ginger, red pepper flakes, and salt until smooth. Adjust water for desired consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Divide arugula, cooked wild rice, red cabbage, carrots, and cucumber between two bowls.
Top each bowl with sliced blackened chicken, chopped almonds, and puffed rice cereal.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Drizzle the spicy cashew dressing over each bowl. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2 bowls
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with marinated and grilled tofu or tempeh.
Vegan Dressing: Use agave syrup instead of honey for a fully vegan dressing.
Add More Greens: Toss in spinach, kale, or mixed greens for extra nutrients.
Spicy Boost: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing.
Crunchy Toppings: Swap puffed rice cereal for crushed tortilla chips or sunflower seeds.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the wild rice and chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop before assembling the bowl.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, basmati rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice are great alternatives to wild rice.

2. How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Don’t overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

3. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and whisk before using.

4. Can I substitute cashew butter?

Yes, almond butter or tahini can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.

5. What other proteins can I use?

Shrimp, grilled steak, or even hard-boiled eggs work well in this bowl.

6. How do I make this bowl gluten-free?

Ensure all ingredients, including puffed rice cereal and cashew butter, are labeled gluten-free.

7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken can save time.

8. What other veggies can I add?

Bell peppers, snap peas, or roasted sweet potatoes would make great additions.

9. Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, prepare the components in advance and assemble the bowls just before serving. Keep the dressing separate to avoid soggy veggies.

10. How do I keep the puffed rice cereal crispy?

Add the cereal just before serving to maintain its crunch.

Conclusion

This Sweetgreen Crispy Rice Bowl is a perfect blend of textures and flavors that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. With smoky blackened chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy, spicy dressing, it’s a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. Easy to customize and perfect for meal prep, this recipe is a must-try. Make it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!