High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1 cup spinach or mixed greens; 1 avocado, sliced; Your favorite dressing

Highlighted under: Nutritious Favorites

I absolutely love this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl! It's become a staple in my meal prep routine. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and fresh veggies not only fills me up but also keeps my energy levels high throughout the day. I appreciate how easy it is to customize with whatever greens or toppings I have on hand. Plus, it packs a flavorful punch that keeps me looking forward to lunchtime!

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:25:17.010Z

Making this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl has become one of my favorite meal prep activities. It's incredibly satisfying to see everything come together, and the aromas wafting from the kitchen are irresistible. I always start with marinating the chicken to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful, using a blend of spices that enhances the overall experience.

After perfecting my quinoa-cooking method, I've learned that rinsing the seeds before cooking removes excess starch and gives a better texture. I combine it with fresh veggies and a tangy dressing that adds brightness and compliments the protein perfectly. This bowl has turned out to be a wholesome and delicious option!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with protein for sustained energy throughout the day
Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients
A vibrant and nutritious option for meal prep or quick lunches

Perfecting the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat. The olive oil acts as a lubricant, ensuring that the spices adhere well. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes if you have the time, as this allows the seasonings to penetrate more deeply. If you prefer, you can marinate it overnight for an even richer taste, just be sure to keep it refrigerated.

When cooking the chicken, using medium heat in the skillet allows for even cooking without drying out the meat. Look for a golden-brown crust to form on the outside, which indicates that the chicken is searing properly. If you're unsure if the chicken is done, a meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the breast for optimal safety and juiciness.

Quinoa Tips and Tricks

Cooking quinoa properly is key to achieving the right texture. Rinsing it under cold water removes the natural saponins that can impart a bitter taste. The ratio of quinoa to vegetable broth is pivotal, as using broth instead of water adds depth of flavor. If you find that the quinoa isn’t tender after 15 minutes, it might need an additional 5 minutes. Just keep it covered and check for the fluffy, tail-like germ to appear, signaling it's ready.

For variety, you can easily swap the quinoa with other grains like farro or brown rice. Keep in mind that cooking times will differ; for example, farro usually takes about 30-40 minutes to cook. Each grain brings its unique texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment according to your preference.

Serving and Customization Ideas

This bowl is incredibly versatile. You can add a variety of toppings based on what’s in your fridge. Roasted bell peppers or steamed broccoli can be delightful additions. For a bit of extra crunch, consider topping it with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. And for those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can offer a nice kick.

If you're meal prepping, feel free to store the components separately to maintain freshness. The bowl can last in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just remember to dress the salads just before eating to prevent them from becoming soggy. If you want to freeze the cooked chicken and quinoa, divide them into portions in airtight containers and use them within three months for best quality.

Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients before getting started to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Quinoa Base

1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste

For Topping

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup spinach or mixed greens
1 avocado, sliced
Your favorite dressing

Having all your ingredients ready can help you manage your time efficiently while cooking.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the cooking process and create this delightful High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl!

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water then combine it with vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.

Cook the Chicken

While the quinoa is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.

Prepare the Bowl

In a bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, spinach, and avocado. Drizzle with your favorite dressing.

Enjoy your deliciously healthy High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl, perfect for any meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite seasonal veggies or swap the chicken for chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lower-carb alternative, try substituting quinoa with cauliflower rice. Simply pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice, then sauté them in olive oil for about 5-7 minutes until tender. This swap not only reduces carbs but also increases your vegetable intake.

For the protein source, if you prefer plant-based options, chickpeas or black beans can work beautifully. Canned beans are already cooked, so just rinse and toss them in the bowl. Each option brings a unique flavor profile while keeping the protein levels high.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the taste further, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the toppings before serving. Not only do these herbs bring a burst of freshness, but they also enhance the overall visual appeal of the bowl. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before eating can brighten all the flavors beautifully.

If you enjoy a creamier texture, replacing your favorite dressing with tzatziki or a yogurt-based dressing can add a tangy contrast to the savory chicken and grains. Additionally, for a burst of Mediterranean flavors, try adding olives or feta cheese – they can turn a simple bowl into a gourmet dish.

Meal Prep Mastery

This High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl is particularly suited for meal prepping. I like to cook a large batch of quinoa and marinated chicken at the beginning of the week. This way, I have everything ready to build my bowls quickly, making it convenient for busy days. Just be sure to let the chicken cool before freezing it to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to frostiness.

A good tip for keeping the bowls vibrant and fresh throughout the week is to layer the denser ingredients at the bottom and the delicate ones, like spinach and avocado, on top. This prevents the greens from wilting too quickly and keeps everything looking appetizing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! This bowl keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

Brown rice or farro are great alternatives if you're looking for a different grain.

→ How can I increase the protein content?

Adding beans or a sprinkle of feta cheese can boost the protein level significantly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is gluten-free, making this bowl a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.