This Pizza Protein Bowl packs all your favorite pizza flavors into a healthy dish! With protein-rich chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty sauce, it’s a satisfying meal that feels indulgent but is good for you.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just toss everything in a bowl, and you have a delicious dinner without the guilt of greasy pizza. Plus, it’s great for meal prep, too! 🍕💪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brown Rice: I love using brown rice for extra fiber and nutrients, but you can swap it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. This really keeps the bowl light and fluffy!
Ground Turkey/Chicken: Choose ground turkey or chicken for lean protein. If you prefer beef or plant-based options like lentils, they work great, too. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Pizza Sauce: Store-bought pizza sauce is convenient, but feel free to make your own with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It’s super easy and fresh! You could also use marinara sauce.
Cheese: Mozzarella is my go-to, but you might enjoy provolone or a vegan cheese if you’re avoiding dairy. Just check if it melts well!
Vegetables: Broccoli and mushrooms add flavor and texture. You can also throw in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini based on what you have at home.
How Do I Roast Vegetables Perfectly?
Roasting veggies brings out their sweetness and gives them a tasty, crispy edge. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the veggies into even-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them out on a baking sheet without crowding them. This ensures they roast rather than steam.
- Cook them for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and slightly brown.
Enjoy the delightful bursts of flavor in your Pizza Protein Bowl with these perfectly roasted veggies!
How to Make a Delicious Pizza Protein Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice
Protein & Sauce:
- 1 cup cooked ground turkey or chicken
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
Cheese & Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 slices turkey pepperoni or regular pepperoni
Vegetables:
- 1 cup broccoli florets, roasted or sautéed
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms, sautéed
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
Seasoning & Garnish:
- 1 tsp olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
- 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Pizza Protein Bowl takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients, and then the cooking process should only take about 20 minutes. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using fresh broccoli and mushrooms, drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast or sauté these until they are tender and slightly browned—around 10-15 minutes will do the trick!
2. Mix the Protein:
In a skillet over medium heat, combine your cooked ground turkey or chicken with the pizza sauce and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is warmed through and well mixed. This will be the flavorful base of your bowl!
3. Build Your Bowl:
Grab a bowl (or a baking-safe dish if you want to melt the cheese) and start layering! First, add the cooked rice or cauliflower rice to the bottom. Then, spoon the sauced turkey or chicken mixture over the rice, making sure it’s nice and even.
4. Add the Veggies:
Next, arrange the roasted vegetables—broccoli, mushrooms—and the diced tomatoes around the protein layer, creating a colorful and nutritious topping.
5. Cheese It Up:
Now for the best part—sprinkle that shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over everything. Make sure to cover every corner to guarantee melty goodness!
6. Top with Pepperoni:
Finish it off by placing the slices of turkey pepperoni on top of the cheese. You’ll love the way they crisp up in the oven!
7. Bake It:
Place your bowl or baking dish in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks irresistibly delicious!
8. Final Touches:
Once baked, carefully remove your Pizza Protein Bowl from the oven, and garnish with freshly chopped basil. This adds a nice, fresh flavor that ties everything together.
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Your flavorful Pizza Protein Bowl is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm, and dig into this delightful, healthy meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner!
Can I Substitute Cauliflower Rice for Brown Rice?
Absolutely! Cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb option and adds a nice texture to the bowl. Just make sure to cook it according to your preference—sautéing briefly usually works well.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it up on the stove until heated through. You might want to add a splash of water to keep it moist!
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to mix in or replace the broccoli and mushrooms with other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just make sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender for the best flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply swap out the ground turkey or chicken for a plant-based protein like lentils, chickpeas, or a meat substitute. Use your favorite marinara sauce for a delicious flavor!
