Name: Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup quinoa (rinsed); 2 cups water or vegetable broth; Pinch of salt; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, sliced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional); Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp honey or maple syrup; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Looking for a wholesome, satisfying, and flavor-packed meal that’s super easy to put together? This Chicken Quinoa Bowl has got you covered! Imagine perfectly seasoned grilled chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a medley of fresh veggies all piled into a bowl that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it the ultimate balanced meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, dinner, or meal prep option, this Chicken Quinoa Bowl is versatile, nourishing, and full of vibrant flavors. Plus, it’s one of those meals that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, but it’s so simple to whip up. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Nutrient-Packed: With lean chicken, quinoa, and fresh vegetables, this bowl is loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats that’ll keep you full and energized all day long.

Customizable: This bowl is totally flexible! You can swap out veggies, add your favorite sauces, or even switch the protein. Want to go vegetarian? Try chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken. The possibilities are endless.

Quick and Easy: The whole thing comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead. No complicated steps—just simple, fresh ingredients.

Fresh and Flavorful: With the perfectly seasoned chicken, the nutty quinoa, and a drizzle of dressing or sauce, each bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, the crunch of fresh veggies adds a nice contrast to the tender chicken and quinoa.

Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch of this Chicken Quinoa Bowl for lunch or dinner throughout the week. It stores beautifully in the fridge and holds up well, making it a great make-ahead option.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this protein-packed, tasty Chicken Quinoa Bowl:

For the Bowl:

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the perfect lean protein for this bowl. Grill, bake, or pan-sear them for maximum flavor.
Quinoa: A gluten-free, high-protein grain that’s light yet filling. Quinoa serves as the hearty base of this dish.

Vegetables: Fresh, colorful veggies are a must! Think of adding sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and leafy greens like spinach or arugula for an extra burst of nutrition and crunch.
Avocado: Creamy, rich avocado adds healthy fats and a smooth contrast to the other textures.
Feta Cheese or Goat Cheese (Optional): A sprinkle of cheese adds a creamy, tangy note to the bowl, but feel free to skip it for a dairy-free version.

For the Chicken Marinade:

Olive Oil: Helps to marinate the chicken and add richness.
Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and a fresh tang to the chicken.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds savory depth to the chicken.

Dried Herbs: A combination of dried oregano, thyme, and paprika works perfectly to season the chicken.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the flavor of the chicken.
Honey (Optional): A touch of honey adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory seasoning.

For the Dressing (Optional):

Olive Oil: The base for the dressing.
Lemon Juice or Apple Cider Vinegar: For a tangy kick.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.

Honey or Maple Syrup: A hint of sweetness to balance out the acidity.
Garlic: Fresh garlic for extra zing.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to dive in? Let’s break down how to make this delicious Chicken Quinoa Bowl:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dried herbs, salt, pepper, and honey (if using). Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

While the chicken is marinating, rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa with water (or broth for extra flavor). Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook it on the grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

In each serving bowl, add a scoop of quinoa as the base. Arrange sliced chicken, fresh veggies, and avocado on top. If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle it on top for an extra creamy bite.

Step 5: Optional Dressing

If you’re making the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the assembled bowl, or serve it on the side for drizzling as you eat.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Chicken Quinoa Bowls immediately for a fresh, flavorful meal. Enjoy as a standalone dish or serve with a side of roasted veggies for an even heartier meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 450
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 400mg
Total Carbohydrate: 33g
Dietary Fiber: 6g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 35g
Vitamin A: 25%
Vitamin C: 40%
Calcium: 8%
Iron: 15%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Quinoa Bowl

On Its Own: This Chicken Quinoa Bowl is satisfying enough to stand alone as a meal. It’s a complete dish that’s both filling and nutrient-packed.

With a Side: Serve with a side of roasted sweet potatoes, a green salad, or some crispy roasted chickpeas for a crunchy contrast.

Meal Prep: Make a big batch of this bowl for meal prep! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and you can easily pack it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

With Extra Toppings: Add a dollop of hummus, a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds, or even a boiled egg for extra protein and texture.

Additional Tips

Grill or Pan-Seer the Chicken: For an even easier meal, you can pan-sear the chicken in a skillet if you don’t have access to a grill.

Add Roasted Veggies: If you want to mix things up, roast some veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts and toss them into the bowl.
Make It Spicy: Add some sriracha or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick!
Switch Up the Grain: If quinoa isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it for brown rice, couscous, or farro.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this Chicken Quinoa Bowl ahead of time?
A1: Yes, this bowl is perfect for meal prep! Cook the quinoa and chicken in advance, then store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the bowls right before eating.

Q2: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A2: Absolutely! Chicken thighs would add a bit more flavor and juiciness, though the cooking time may vary slightly. Just be sure to cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Q3: Can I make this bowl vegetarian?
A3: Yes! You can swap the chicken for grilled tofu, roasted chickpeas, or tempeh for a plant-based protein option.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the chicken and quinoa, or enjoy the bowl cold if you prefer.

Q5: Can I use quinoa flour for this recipe?
A5: No, quinoa flour would not work in this recipe. You need cooked quinoa for the base of the bowl.

Q6: Can I use frozen chicken?
A6: If using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before marinating and cooking it.

Q7: Can I add a dressing on top?
A7: Yes! You can use a tahini dressing, balsamic glaze, or even a creamy yogurt-based dressing for an extra burst of flavor.

Q8: Can I use a different grain besides quinoa?
A8: Yes! You can swap quinoa for brown rice, couscous, farro, or even a mix of wild rice for a different texture.

Q9: How do I make this dish spicier?
A9: Add some chili flakes to the chicken marinade, or drizzle some hot sauce or sriracha on top of the finished bowl for some extra heat.

Q10: What else can I add to this bowl?
A10: Feel free to add more veggies, like roasted zucchini, grilled asparagus, or even a handful of spinach. You can also sprinkle on nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Conclusion

This Chicken Quinoa Bowl is the perfect balanced meal for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying, wholesome dish that’s quick and easy to make. With its lean protein, fiber-rich quinoa, and fresh veggies, it checks all the boxes for a healthy meal. Plus, it’s totally customizable—so you can make it your own! Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a tasty dinner option, this bowl is a winner every time. Happy cooking!

Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe