Copycat Sweetgreen Crispy Rice Bowl

This Copycat Sweetgreen Crispy Rice Bowl with Spicy Cashew Dressing is a homemade, budget-friendly version of the best bowl that Sweetgreen offers (in my opinion). After trying the original bowl, I was hooked and knew I had to recreate it. Save yourself some money by making it at home with this easy recipe! Thai salads are my weakness, and this Copycat Sweetgreen Crispy Rice Bowl is truly unmatched. The crispy quinoa adds the perfect crunch, complemented by fresh veggies, deliciously seasoned chicken, and an unreal Spicy Cashew Dressing! 🥒

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How To Make A Copycat Sweetgreen Crispy Rice Bowl

Ingredients

• 4-6 Chicken Thighs
• 4 Large Carrots
• 2 Cups Kale
• 1 Head Red Cabbage
• 1 Cucumber
• 1/2 Cup White Onion
• 1 Lime juiced
• 1 Cup Quinoa cooked

Spicy Cashew Dressing

• 1/2 Cup Cashew or Peanut Butter 
• 1/4 Cup Honey
• 2 Tablespoons Rice Vinegar
• 2 Tablespoons Coconut Aminos
• 1 Tablespoon Sesame Oil
• 2 Cloves Garlic
• 1 Tablespoon Ginger
• 1 Lime juiced
• 1 Teaspoon Salt
• 1 Tablespoon Sriracha 

Step-By-Step Instructions

Here is the step-by-step recipe to make a Copycat Sweetgreen Crispy Rice Bowl!

Prepare the Crispy Quinoa (Rice)

Preheat your oven to 350℉. Start by preparing the crispy quinoa, which adds a delightful crunch to your Sweetgreen copycat bowl. Begin with 1 cup of cooked quinoa.

In a mixing bowl, toss the quinoa with 1 tablespoon of coconut aminos and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Ensure the quinoa is evenly coated for maximum flavor. Spread the quinoa in a single layer over a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even crisping. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Cook the Chicken Thighs

While the quinoa is baking, it’s time to cook the chicken thighs. You can enhance the flavor by marinating the chicken in the juice of two limes and 1/2 cup of coconut aminos for at least 30 minutes before cooking. To cook the chicken, bring a large skillet to medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the marinated (or plain) chicken thighs. Pour about 2 tablespoons of coconut aminos and 1 cup of water over the chicken thighs and cover the pan. Allow the liquid to evaporate, which will take about 10-15 minutes. After the liquid has evaporated, cook each side of the chicken thighs for an additional 2 minutes to get a nice crispy exterior. Chicken is generally safe to eat once it has reached an internal temperature of 165℉ for safe consumption. Once cooked, cut the chicken into strips or small cubes.

Chop the Vegetables

While the chicken cooks, prepare the fresh vegetables! They will add crunch and vibrant color to your bowl. Chop 4 large carrots into small pieces. Thinly slice 1 cup of red cabbage into strips. Dice 1 large cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop 1 white onion. Set the chopped vegetables aside for assembly.

Make the Spicy Cashew Dressing

Next, prepare the flavorful Spicy Cashew Dressing that ties the whole bowl together. In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients Stir the ingredients until they are well combined and the dressing is smooth and creamy. Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Assemble the Copycat Sweetgreen Crispy Rice Bowl

Once the quinoa is finished baking and the chicken and vegetables are ready, it’s time to assemble your bowl. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy quinoa, cooked chicken, chopped carrots, red cabbage, cucumber, and white onion. Drizzle the Spicy Cashew Dressing over the top and toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

Final Touches

For an extra burst of flavor, top your bowl with a handful of cashews and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. These final touches enhance the nutty and citrusy notes in the bowl, making each bite incredibly satisfying. Serve immediately, or as leftovers and savor every bite of this healthy and satisfying meal!

Nuitritional Benefits of the Copycat Sweetgreen Crispy Rice Bowl Ingredients

Chicken Thighs: For this recipe, I use chicken thighs as they are tender and flavorful! Chicken thighs are rich in protein. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breast or rotisserie chicken for a leaner option. About 4-6 thighs are enough to serve 4 people, but adjust according to the amount of people you’re serving!

Carrots: Chopped large carrots add a delightful crunch and vibrant color to the bowl. Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A. I typically use around 4 large carrots!

Kale: This leafy green is one of my favorites due to its robust texture and nutritional profile. Kale is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants & fiber. I use about 2 cups (or handfuls) of kale, which can be adjusted to your taste.

Red Cabbage: Adding red cabbage to the bowl not only enhances the color but also brings a unique crunch. Red cabbage is rich in vitamin C, & vitamin K. I cut the red cabbage into thin strips, using about 1 cup.

Cucumber: Fresh and hydrating, cucumber is a staple in many of my recipes. It adds a crisp texture and refreshing taste. Cucumbers are low in calories but high in water content. I use 1 large cucumber, but you can adjust based on your preference.

White Onion: Adding white onion introduces a sharp, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste of the bowl. Onions are rich in antioxidants! I typically add a small to medium-sized onion, finely chopped.

Quinoa: While the original recipe calls for crispy rice, I prefer using quinoa for its flavor and nutritional benefits. Quinoa has protein, is high in fiber, magnesium, and iron. If you prefer, you can use crispy rice instead, and it will work just as well. Just cook the rice then make it crispy using the crispy quinoa directions above.

The Spicy Cashew Dressing

Cashew Butter: The base of this dressing can be either cashew butter (or peanut butter if you prefer), it provides a creamy texture and rich flavor. Nut butter is an excellent sources of healthy fats.

Honey: For a touch of sweetness—add honey. Honey is rich in antioxidants! You can also use maple syrup if you prefer.

Rice Vinegar: This adds a sweet and mild vinegar taste to the dressing, balancing the richness of the nut butter.

Coconut Aminos: A gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, coconut aminos add a savory, slightly sweet flavor to the dressing. They are lower in sodium compared to traditional soy sauce and are also rich in amino acids.

Sesame Oil: This ingredient adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dressing, essential for an authentic Thai taste.

Lime: Lime is essential for its zesty, citrusy flavor that brightens the entire dish. 

Garlic: Adding minced garlic brings a robust and aromatic flavor to the dressing. Garlic is well-known for its health benefits, it may help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a zesty, slightly spicy flavor that elevates the dressing. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion.

Salt: This ingredient is essential to enhance the overall flavor of the dressing. Salt is a “to taste” ingredient, so add according to your preference—keep in mind dietary sodium intake recommendations.

Sriracha: To bring the spice to this spicy dressing, Sriracha is a must. It adds a kick of heat and a touch of sweetness, making the dressing more dynamic. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

Customize Your Copycat Sweetgreen Crispy Rice Bowl

Customizing your Copycat Sweetgreen Crispy Rice Bowl is easy and allows you to tailor the flavors and ingredients to your personal preferences. You can swap out the chicken thighs for chicken breast, tofu, or shrimp for a different protein option. If you prefer a different grain, try using brown rice, wild rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Add extra crunch with vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or snap peas, and enhance the flavors with toppings like avocado, roasted nuts, or seeds. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, increase the amount of sriracha in the Spicy Cashew Dressing or add a sprinkle of chili flakes. The versatility of this bowl makes it perfect for experimenting with your favorite ingredients while maintaining its delicious and nutritious flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions?

Enjoy Your Copycat Sweetgreen Crispy Rice Bowl!

This Copycat Sweetgreen Crispy Rice Bowl is a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with fresh vegetables, crispy quinoa, and a zesty Spicy Cashew Dressing, it’s sure to become a favorite! Whether you stick to the recipe or customize it to your taste, this bowl offers endless possibilities for a healthy and satisfying dish. Happy cooking, have the sweetest day, & tag me on Instagram when you make this recipe! @entirelyemmy