20 Dinner Bowl Ideas (Only 20-Minutes!)

In today’s fast-paced world, finding the time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can be a challenge. But what if you could have a satisfying and flavorful meal on the table in just 20 minutes? Enter the dinner bowl – a versatile and convenient way to enjoy a complete meal in a single bowl. From protein-packed power bowls to vibrant and refreshing poke bowls, there’s a dinner bowl for every taste and dietary preference. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and easy-to-make dinner bowl ideas that are perfect for busy weeknights. So, say goodbye to takeout and hello to quick, healthy, and satisfying homemade meals!

1. Quick Korean Beef Bowl

This Korean Beef Bowl is a flavor-packed meal that comes together in a flash. The combination of savory ground beef, fragrant garlic and ginger, and a touch of sweetness from honey creates a truly irresistible dish. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Sliced green onions, for garnish
• Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Pour the sauce over the ground beef and stir to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
5. Serve the Korean beef over a bed of cooked rice, and garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.

2. 20-Minute Taco Bowl

Bring the flavors of your favorite taco to a convenient and healthy bowl. This Taco Bowl is packed with seasoned ground turkey, black beans, and all your favorite taco toppings. It’s a customizable and family-friendly meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Salsa
• Sliced avocado

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned.
2. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Add the black beans to the skillet and cook until heated through.
4. To assemble the bowls, layer the cooked rice or quinoa, seasoned ground turkey and black beans, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
5. Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a spoonful of salsa, and a few slices of avocado.

3. Greek Chicken Bowl

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this fresh and flavorful Greek Chicken Bowl. Tender marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy tzatziki sauce come together in this healthy and satisfying meal. It’s a light yet filling option that’s perfect for a warm evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked quinoa or rice, for serving
• Chopped cucumber
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Kalamata olives
• Feta cheese, crumbled
• Tzatziki sauce, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
2. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. To assemble the bowls, layer the cooked quinoa or rice, marinated chicken, chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives.
4. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and drizzle with tzatziki sauce.

4. Quick Buffalo Chicken Bowl

If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, you’ll love this Buffalo Chicken Bowl. Crispy chicken tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce, served over a bed of rice with a cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing. It’s a satisfying and indulgent meal that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Celery sticks, for serving
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the flour mixture to coat.
2. In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter and hot sauce. Add the cooked chicken to the bowl and toss to coat in the buffalo sauce.
4. Serve the buffalo chicken over a bed of cooked rice, with celery sticks and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing.

5. 20-Minute Orange Chicken Bowl

Skip the takeout and make your own delicious Orange Chicken Bowl at home. Crispy chicken is coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s better than any restaurant version. Serve it with fluffy rice and steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Steamed broccoli, for serving

Instructions:

1. Toss the chicken pieces in the cornstarch to coat.
2. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and crispy.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it has thickened.
5. Serve the orange chicken over a bed of cooked rice with a side of steamed broccoli.

6. Chimichurri Chicken Bowl

This Chimichurri Chicken Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. The star of the show is the zesty chimichurri sauce, which is made with fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil. It’s a light and refreshing dish that’s packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled or pan-seared
• 1 cup fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked quinoa or rice, for serving
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Sliced avocado

Instructions:

1. To make the chimichurri sauce, combine the parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Slice the grilled or pan-seared chicken.
3. To assemble the bowls, layer the cooked quinoa or rice, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and sliced avocado.
4. Drizzle with the chimichurri sauce before serving.

7. Hot Honey Chicken Bowl

This Hot Honey Chicken Bowl is the perfect combination of sweet and spicy. Crispy chicken is coated in a delicious hot honey sauce, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a new favorite. Serve it over a bed of rice with your favorite steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp hot sauce
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Steamed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, etc.), for serving

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the flour mixture to coat.
2. In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. In a separate bowl, melt the butter and whisk in the honey and hot sauce. Add the cooked chicken to the bowl and toss to coat in the hot honey sauce.
4. Serve the hot honey chicken over a bed of cooked rice with a side of steamed vegetables.

8. BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl

Enjoy the classic flavors of a summer barbecue in a convenient and healthy bowl. This BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl features tender, juicy chicken smothered in your favorite barbecue sauce, served with rice and a refreshing corn and black bean salsa.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled or pan-seared
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup canned corn, drained
• 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Slice the grilled or pan-seared chicken and toss it with the barbecue sauce.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the corn, black beans, red onion, and cilantro to make a salsa.
3. To assemble the bowls, layer the cooked rice, BBQ chicken, and corn and black bean salsa.
4. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

9. Honey Sesame Chicken Bowl

This Honey Sesame Chicken Bowl is a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor. The sweet and savory honey sesame sauce is the perfect complement to the tender chicken and crisp vegetables. It’s a healthier and more delicious alternative to takeout.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp water
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Steamed broccoli florets
• Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
2. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the skillet with the chicken and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
4. Serve the honey sesame chicken over a bed of cooked rice with steamed broccoli florets. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds.

10. Ginger Beef & Broccoli Bowl

This Ginger Beef & Broccoli Bowl is a classic stir-fry dish that’s both healthy and delicious. The tender beef and crisp broccoli are coated in a savory ginger sauce, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for a busy weeknight.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, toss the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and the cornstarch.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until crisp-tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Pour the sauce over the broccoli and bring it to a simmer.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
6. Serve the ginger beef and broccoli over a bed of cooked rice.

11. Sweet Chili Chicken Meatball Bowl

These Sweet Chili Chicken Meatball Bowls are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic meatball dinner. The chicken meatballs are coated in a sweet and spicy chili sauce and served over a bed of rice with your favorite vegetables. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Steamed or roasted vegetables, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, cilantro, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through.
3. Pour the sweet chili sauce over the meatballs and toss to coat.
4. Serve the sweet chili chicken meatballs over a bed of cooked rice with your favorite steamed or roasted vegetables.

12. Chicken Shawarma Grain Bowl

This Chicken Shawarma Grain Bowl is a healthy and flavorful meal that’s inspired by the popular Middle Eastern street food. The chicken is marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and served with a variety of fresh toppings. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a light and healthy dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked quinoa or farro, for serving
• Chopped romaine lettuce
• Diced cucumber
• Diced tomatoes
• Hummus, for serving
• Pita bread, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. To assemble the bowls, layer the cooked quinoa or farro, chopped romaine lettuce, diced cucumber, and diced tomatoes.
4. Top with the cooked chicken and a dollop of hummus. Serve with pita bread on the side, if desired.

13. Spicy Cashew Chicken Noodle Bowl

This Spicy Cashew Chicken Noodle Bowl is a quick and easy stir-fry that’s packed with flavor. The tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and crunchy cashews are tossed in a spicy and savory sauce. It’s a satisfying and delicious meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz rice noodles
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha or other chili sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 cup roasted cashews

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice noodles according to package directions.
2. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and the cornstarch.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Add the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until crisp-tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, sriracha, and honey. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and bring it to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and add the cooked rice noodles and roasted cashews. Toss to combine and serve immediately.

14. French Onion Chicken Bowl

This French Onion Chicken Bowl is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s inspired by the classic French onion soup. The caramelized onions and savory chicken are served over a bed of rice and topped with melted cheese. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until caramelized and golden brown.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. To assemble the bowls, layer the cooked rice and the chicken and onion mixture.
5. Sprinkle with the shredded cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

15. Southwest Chicken Burrito Bowl

This Southwest Chicken Burrito Bowl is a healthy and flavorful meal that’s packed with protein and fiber. The seasoned chicken, black beans, and corn are served over a bed of rice and topped with your favorite burrito toppings. It’s a customizable and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salsa
• Guacamole

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Stir in the black beans and corn and cook until heated through.
4. To assemble the bowls, layer the cooked rice, chicken and bean mixture, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes.
5. Top with shredded cheese, salsa, and guacamole.

16. Buddha Bowl

A Buddha Bowl is a vegetarian meal, served on a single bowl or high-rimmed plate, which consists of small portions of several foods, served cold. These may include whole grains such as quinoa or brown rice, plant proteins such as chickpeas or tofu, and vegetables. The portions are not mixed on the plate, but arranged in an artful way.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup roasted sweet potatoes, cubed
• 1 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup tahini dressing

Instructions:

1. Arrange the cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, steamed broccoli, and shredded carrots in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with tahini dressing before serving.

17. Poke Bowl

Poke is a raw fish salad served as an appetizer in Hawaiian cuisine, and sometimes as a main course. This version is a deconstructed sushi bowl, with all the delicious flavors of your favorite roll.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb sushi-grade ahi tuna, cubed
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
• 1/2 cup edamame, shelled
• 1/4 cup sliced avocado
• Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the cubed tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. To assemble the bowls, layer the cooked rice, marinated tuna, sliced cucumber, edamame, and sliced avocado.
3. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

18. Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl

This Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl is a light and refreshing meal that’s packed with flavor. The combination of quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a lemon-herb dressing creates a healthy and satisfying dish. It’s a perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
3. Serve immediately or chill for later.

19. Vegan Burrito Bowl

This Vegan Burrito Bowl is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s packed with plant-based protein. The combination of rice, beans, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying and delicious dish. It’s a healthy and compassionate alternative to the traditional burrito bowl.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Salsa, for serving
• Guacamole, for serving

Instructions:

1. To assemble the bowls, layer the cooked brown rice, black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and chopped red onion.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges, salsa, and guacamole on the side.

20. Salmon Avocado Bowl

This Salmon Avocado Bowl is a light and healthy meal that’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids. The combination of flaky salmon, creamy avocado, and fresh vegetables creates a delicious and satisfying dish. It’s a perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 (6-ounce) salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
• 1/2 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup mixed greens
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
• 2 tbsp lemon vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumber.
2. Top with the flaked salmon and sliced avocado.
3. Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette before serving.

Conclusion

Dinner bowls are a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, healthy, and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With endless possibilities for customization, you can easily create a bowl that suits your taste and dietary needs. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy taco bowl, a refreshing poke bowl, or a hearty grain bowl, there’s a 20-minute dinner bowl recipe out there for you. So, get creative in the kitchen and whip up one of these satisfying and flavorful meals tonight!