Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe: A Nutritious and Flavorful Meal for Any Time of Day

If you’re looking for a nourishing, balanced meal that’s both healthy and filling, this Chicken Quinoa Bowl is exactly what you need. Packed with lean protein from the chicken, fiber-rich quinoa, and fresh vegetables, this bowl is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick, nutritious dinner, this recipe is easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Why Chicken Quinoa Bowls Are So Popular

Chicken quinoa bowls have become a favorite among health-conscious eaters, and for good reason! They’re not only packed with essential nutrients, but they’re also customizable to suit any taste. The quinoa serves as a wholesome base, providing a complete source of protein and fiber, while the chicken adds lean protein to keep you feeling full longer. Add your favorite veggies, dressing, and toppings, and you have a versatile, delicious meal in a bowl.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about chicken quinoa bowls is how easily customizable they are. You can adjust the toppings, protein, and sauce to fit your dietary needs or cravings. Add roasted vegetables, switch up the protein for grilled shrimp or tofu, or drizzle on your favorite dressing. This recipe is a great template to build upon, making it perfect for any occasion.

How to Make Chicken Quinoa Bowl

This recipe is quick to prepare and only requires a few simple ingredients. It’s great for meal prep, and the chicken and quinoa can be cooked ahead of time. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Quinoa:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or broth (for cooking quinoa)
• Salt to taste

For the Bowl:

• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
• ¼ cup feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

this Recipe

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa:
   Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any excess starch. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add the quinoa and a pinch of salt, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   While the quinoa is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
   To assemble, place a base of quinoa in each bowl. Top with the sliced chicken, mixed greens, cucumber, bell pepper, avocado, and cheese (if using). Drizzle with the dressing and sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve immediately and enjoy a fresh, flavorful, and nutrient-packed chicken quinoa bowl. You can also meal prep by storing the components separately in airtight containers for later use.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Quinoa Bowl

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like cherry tomatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or shredded carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: For some heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, a drizzle of hot sauce, or some sliced jalapeños to the bowl.
• Make It Vegan: To make this bowl vegan, replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.
• Try Different Grains: If you’re not a fan of quinoa, you can easily substitute it with other grains like brown rice, couscous, or farro.

Print

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes! If you have leftover cooked chicken, you can skip the cooking step and simply shred the chicken to add to the bowl.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook the quinoa and chicken ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat.

3. How can I make the dressing spicier?
To add some heat to the dressing, whisk in a teaspoon of sriracha, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

4. What can I use instead of quinoa?
If you prefer a different grain, try substituting quinoa with brown rice, farro, bulgur, or couscous. Each offers a unique texture and flavor.

5. Can I add fruit to the bowl?
Yes! Adding fruits like pomegranate seeds, sliced apples, or even mango can add a refreshing sweetness that complements the savory ingredients.

6. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is already gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice. Just make sure any additional sauces or dressings are also gluten-free.

7. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, salmon, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.

8. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover components in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to avoid wilting the veggies.

9. Can I meal prep this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is great for meal prepping. Store the cooked quinoa, chicken, and toppings in separate containers, and assemble the bowls when ready to eat.

10. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, you can add spicy ingredients like sliced jalapeños, chili flakes, or a spicy dressing to give the bowl some heat.