Grilled Chicken & Garlic Tahini Rice Bowl

### Instructions

#### 1. **Marinate and Grill the Chicken**
Start by marinating the chicken. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts and let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes.

While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

#### 2. **Prepare the Garlic Tahini Rice**
While the chicken is grilling, cook your rice according to the package instructions, substituting water with chicken broth for added flavor. Once cooked, set the rice aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Stir in the cooked rice, ensuring the garlic is well mixed through.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, honey (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. If the tahini is too thick, add a little warm water to thin it out to a drizzle-worthy consistency. Pour the tahini sauce over the rice, stirring until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

#### 3. **Assemble the Rice Bowls**
To assemble the bowls, start by placing a generous scoop of the garlic tahini rice at the bottom of each bowl. Arrange the grilled chicken strips on top of the rice. Add any optional toppings like fresh parsley, cucumber slices, avocado, tomatoes, or cheese.

For an extra burst of flavor, serve with lemon wedges on the side and a drizzle of extra tahini sauce.

#### 4. **Serve and Enjoy!**
Serve the bowls warm, and enjoy the balance of flavors from the tender chicken, creamy tahini rice, and fresh toppings. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge for a couple of days.

### Why This Recipe Is So Great

– **Packed with Protein**: The grilled chicken provides a solid dose of lean protein, making this a filling meal that can help power you through the day.
– **Rich in Healthy Fats**: The tahini sauce gives the dish a boost of healthy fats, while the olive oil and avocado add even more heart-healthy benefits.
– **Flavorful and Customizable**: The garlic tahini rice adds depth and richness, while the optional toppings let you mix things up depending on your preferences. Whether you add some tangy feta or fresh avocado, each bite is full of satisfying flavors and textures.
– **Easy to Make**: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this rice bowl is quick and easy to put together, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
– **Nutrient-Rich**: The rice, chicken, tahini, and fresh toppings come together to create a balanced meal that’s full of essential vitamins and minerals.

### Tips for Customizing Your Rice Bowl

– **Swap the Protein**: If you prefer something other than chicken, try swapping in grilled shrimp, beef, or tofu for a plant-based option.
– **Vary the Grains**: While rice is the base of this bowl, you can easily substitute quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a different texture or lower-carb option.
– **Add Roasted Vegetables**: For extra flavor and nutrition, top your bowl with roasted veggies like sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini.
– **Make it Spicy**: If you like a little heat, drizzle some hot sauce over your chicken or mix red pepper flakes into the tahini sauce.

### Why This Bowl Will Be Your New Go-To Meal

Grilled Chicken & Garlic Tahini Rice Bowl is a complete meal that checks all the boxes: it’s flavorful, healthy, and customizable. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout meal, a satisfying dinner, or a dish to bring to a gathering, this rice bowl is sure to please. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and offers a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbs.

Try this recipe, and you’ll have a delicious, wholesome meal that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!