High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups water or vegetable broth; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, carrots); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Nutritious Delights

I absolutely love this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl because it's not only nutritious, but it's also incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and fresh vegetables makes for a delicious meal that fuels my body and keeps me energized throughout the day. Plus, it's quick to prepare, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or simply looking to eat healthier, this bowl is a lovely addition to your meal prep rotation.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:58:11.444Z

Creating this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl has been an exciting journey for my taste buds. I experimented with various spices and vegetables, and I found that marinating the chicken in lemon juice and garlic really elevates the flavor. The texture of perfectly cooked quinoa complements the chicken beautifully, creating a satisfying base that leaves me feeling full and happy.

I also love how versatile this bowl is. You can add any seasonal veggies you have on hand. For a delightful crunch, I often toss in some roasted almonds or sunflower seeds right before serving. This extra layer not only enhances the taste but also adds a nutritional boost!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with protein to fuel your day.
Fresh ingredients create a vibrant and delicious meal.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for meal prep.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Chicken

Achieving perfectly cooked chicken is all about the right cooking method. I recommend using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This prevents both undercooking and drying out the chicken. If you don't have one, look for juices that run clear when pierced; that's a good visual indicator that it's done.

Letting the chicken rest after cooking is crucial. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a tender, moist chicken that enhances the overall flavor of your quinoa bowl.

Vegetable Variations You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with the mixed vegetables in this recipe. If you have seasonal vegetables on hand, such as zucchini or asparagus, they can be sautéed alongside the bell peppers and broccoli for added flavor and nutrition. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if your chosen vegetables require different treatment; for instance, softer options like zucchini might only need 3-4 minutes.

You can also use frozen mixed vegetables; they are a convenient substitute. Just ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture. This makes for a quick weeknight meal where the veggies can be sautéed directly from the package, making your preparation time even shorter.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips

This High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl is an excellent candidate for meal prep. Cooked chicken and quinoa can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows you to quickly assemble bowls for lunch or dinner throughout the week without losing quality or flavor.

If you're someone who likes to prepare meals ahead of time, consider portioning out individual servings into meal prep containers. That way, when you're ready to eat, you can simply reheat the bowl in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. This method ensures you maintain the dish's deliciousness while saving you time during busy weekdays.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or vegetable broth
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until grains are fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove and let it rest before slicing.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until tender. You can season them with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Bowl

In each serving bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, sliced chicken, and sautéed vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this bowl with your favorite vegetables or dressing. Adding a drizzle of tahini or lemon vinaigrette elevates the flavors even more!

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Needs

If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, quinoa is already a fantastic choice, but you can also swap it for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Each has a unique texture and flavor profile, so choose according to your preference. Brown rice will take longer to cook, usually about 45 minutes, while cauliflower rice cooks within just a few minutes on the stove.

For those who want to reduce their meat intake, consider replacing the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Both options provide a good protein source and can be seasoned similarly to the chicken to maintain a cohesive flavor in the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This quinoa bowl is versatile! Try topping it with avocado slices, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of your favorite sauce, such as tahini or sriracha, for an exciting flavor boost. These toppings not only enhance the dish aesthetically but also add extra layers of creaminess and spice that elevate the overall meal experience.

For an added crunch, consider garnishing your bowl with toasted nuts or seeds like almonds or pumpkin seeds. Their crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the softness of the cooked ingredients, providing a delightful eating experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes, brown rice can be used, but cooking time will vary slightly. Make sure to check the package instructions.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth.

→ Can I make this bowl vegan?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option, and use vegetable broth.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.