High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl

Name: High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup brown rice; 2 cups water; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Living Recipes

I love creating meals that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. This High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl is a perfect example of that. With succulent shrimp, fluffy rice, and a mix of vibrant vegetables, this dish is bursting with flavor and energy. I enjoy making it for lunch or dinner as it’s quick to prepare and can be customized with my favorite ingredients. Whether I’m prepping for a busy week or indulging after a workout, this bowl always satisfies my cravings for something hearty yet healthy.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:53:35.200Z

When I first experimented with this High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl, I wanted to create something that balanced nutrition and flavor seamlessly. The key was using fresh shrimp, which I sautéed just until they turned pink, maximizing their tenderness and flavor. Pairing them with perfectly cooked brown rice and crunchy vegetables makes for a dish that's both satisfying and nutritious.

One of my favorite tips is to play around with spices. I often mix a little chili powder and garlic to elevate the taste. This bowl not only fills me up but leaves me energized throughout my busy day!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with high-quality protein from shrimp
Customizable with your favorite veggies
Quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights

Cooking the Rice Perfectly

For the brown rice, rinse it under cold water to remove excess starch before cooking. This helps in achieving a fluffier texture. Cooking it for 30-35 minutes should give you a perfectly tender grain. Check for doneness by tasting a few grains; they should be soft but still have a slight chew. If you're short on time, you can substitute with quick-cooking rice options, but keep in mind the texture will be different.

Letting the rice sit off heat for about 10 minutes after cooking allows it to steam and further enhances its fluffiness. Using a fork to fluff the rice instead of a spoon prevents it from becoming mushy. This step is essential in ensuring the rice will hold up nicely when paired with the shrimp and vegetables.

Perfecting the Shrimp

When cooking shrimp, it's crucial to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough and rubbery. Aim for a cook time of 3-4 minutes on medium heat, watching for the shrimp to turn a vibrant pink. If they're curling tightly into a 'C' shape, they're likely overdone. Instead, look for a gentle curve, which indicates they are perfectly cooked.

For an enhanced depth of flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and olive oil for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This not only infuses the shrimp with flavor but also ensures they brown nicely in the skillet, giving them a savory, slightly caramelized exterior.

Ingredients

For the Rice Bowl

1 cup brown rice
2 cups water
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add the brown rice, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 30–35 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add the shrimp and cook until they are pink, about 3–4 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the diced bell pepper and broccoli florets, cooking for another 3 minutes. Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine.

Assemble the Bowl

To serve, place a generous portion of brown rice in a bowl, top with the shrimp and vegetable mixture, and garnish with chopped green onions.

Pro Tips

Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. This dish is versatile and can be made with various proteins like chicken or tofu for different tastes.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to customize the vegetable mix in this High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl. Zucchini, snap peas, or carrots can be excellent substitutes, offering different flavors and textures. If you use heartier vegetables like carrots, steam them first to ensure they cook through in the skillet.

Frozen broccoli florets can be a convenient alternative if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water beforehand to prevent the dish from becoming too watery. Quick-cooking vegetables can also be added at the end, ensuring they retain their crunch and vibrant color.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish is great for meal prep! You can cook a large batch of rice and shrimp, portion them out, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Just make sure to cool all ingredients to room temperature before sealing them to retain freshness.

If you're looking to freeze your meal, do so after cooking. Keep the shrimp and vegetables separate from the rice to maintain their textures. When reheating, allow the bowl to defrost in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

For a more filling meal, top the bowl with a fried or poached egg; the runny yolk adds a rich creaminess that's delightful with the shrimp and rice. Fresh herbs, like cilantro or basil, offer a nice contrast and can enhance the bowl's freshness and flavor profile.

Consider serving the rice bowl with lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds brightness and elevates the overall taste. You might also sprinkle sesame seeds or chili flakes for an added crunch and a touch of heat, creating a well-rounded dish that's visually appealing and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can substitute white rice, but the cooking time will be shorter—around 15–20 minutes.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.

→ What other proteins can I use?

Chicken, tofu, or even beef can be great alternatives to shrimp.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the bowl when ready to eat.