Are you wondering whether chicken and rice is good for bulking? Well the answer is yes! This famous combo is popular with gym-goers for a reason. Packed with lean protein and complex carbs, chicken and rice gives you the energy to power through intense muscle building workouts. In this blog, we’ll explore why chicken and rice is great for bulking and share some tasty recipe ideas to keep meals exciting.
Is Chicken and Rice Good for Bulking?
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for repairing and building muscles. White rice is a simple carb that digests efficiently, making it ideal for restoring energy post-workout. Brown rice, on the other hand, provides extra fibre for more gradual digestion. Together, chicken and rice provide a balanced meal that fulfils protein and energy requirements, which is exactly what you need for your bulking journey.
Tasty Chicken and Rice Recipes for Muscle Gains
Delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice
For a tasty balance of sweet and savoury, try this honey garlic chicken fried rice.
Ingredients:
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200g chicken breast
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180g cooked white rice
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp honey
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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100g mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, peppers)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
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Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the chicken until golden brown.
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Add garlic and mixed vegetables, stirring until softened.
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Stir in honey and soy sauce, coating the chicken and veggies.
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Add rice and mix well, seasoning with salt and pepper and serve.
Spicy Chicken Rice Bowl
If you enjoy a bit of heat, this spicy chicken rice bowl delivers both flavour and fuel.
Ingredients:
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200g chicken breast
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180g cooked brown rice
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 tbsp Greek yoghurt
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80g steamed broccoli
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Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
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Cut chicken into strips and then combine it in a bowl with Greek yogurt, sriracha, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Leave it to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes.
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In a pan, add the olive oil on a medium heat. Add the marinated chicken strips and fully cook.
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Boil your rice and broccoli.
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Serve the spicy chicken in a bowl with a bed of brown rice and a side of broccoli.
Garlicky Herb Chicken and Rice with Broccoli
This quick, one-pan garlic and herb chicken and rice is super enjoyable and easy to prep for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
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200g boneless chicken thighs
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180g cooked rice (white or brown)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp mixed herbs
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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100g broccoli florets
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Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
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Start by dicing your chicken thighs and boiling your preferred rice.
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Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and mixed herbs, and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (don’t let the garlic burn).
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Add the cut chicken thighs to the pan, stirring occasionally until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper.
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Add the broccoli florets to the pan, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until tender.
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Add the cooked rice to the pan and mix it with the chicken, ensuring you heat everything through before serving.
Is Chicken and Rice Good for Bulking or Cutting?
Yes, it can be effective for both bulking and cutting. For bulking, increase portion sizes and add some healthy fats, like avocado or nuts. For cutting, go for smaller portions and add more veggies for a lighter, filling meal.
Is Chicken, Rice, and Broccoli Good for Bulking?
Definitely. Adding broccoli gives a boost of fibre and vitamins. Being low-calorie but high in nutrients, you get more volume for your meal without too many extra calories.
Can I Eat Chicken and Rice Every Day?
Yes. Just keep your diet balanced by rotating other protein sources, carbs, and veggies for variety.
Take Your Bulking Journey to the Next Level!
With these chicken and rice recipes, you’re all set to stay on track with your bulking goals while keeping your taste buds satisfied.
Looking for additional ideas and guidance? Check out our other blogs for more tips, or explore our personal training services. Our coaches can create meal and workout plans tailored to your fitness goals. Find your nearest Village Gym location and take your journey to the next level.
We hope our recipes give you some variation to your meal plan. With only a few tweaks, you can keep your meals exciting, nutritious, and perfect for muscle gains. If you’re ready to start your Village Gym fitness journey visit our membership section to learn more.