This Chicken & Quinoa Bowl is a healthy, protein-packed meal perfect for meal prep, clean eating, and quick weeknight dinners. Made with tender seasoned chicken, fluffy quinoa, and fresh vegetables, this balanced bowl is filling, flavorful, and easy to customize. Save this easy chicken quinoa bowl recipe for healthy lunches and family-friendly meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy to prepare
- Family-friendly and balanced
- Budget-friendly with pantry staples
- Fully customizable with your favorite veggies and sauces
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Quinoa
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
For the Bowl
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ avocado, sliced
Optional Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or tahini
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
- Add quinoa and broth to a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy.
- While quinoa cooks, season chicken with spices, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- Prepare vegetables and sauce while chicken rests.
- Assemble bowls with quinoa, chicken, vegetables, and sauce.
Equipment
- Saucepan with lid
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Tips & Variations
- Swap proteins: Use grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas.
- Add greens: Spinach or arugula adds freshness.
- Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Meal prep tip: Store components separately to keep textures fresh.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm or cold as a meal-prep bowl.
- Pair with a simple green salad or pita bread.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 14g
Conclusion
This Chicken & Quinoa Bowl is the perfect blend of nutrition, flavor, and convenience. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or putting together a quick dinner, this recipe delivers a satisfying, healthy option you’ll want to make again and again. Save it, share it, and enjoy a balanced bowl any day of the week.
FAQ Section
Can I freeze this recipe?
The chicken and quinoa freeze well, but fresh vegetables are best added after reheating.
How do I make it ahead?
Cook the chicken and quinoa up to 4 days in advance and assemble bowls as needed.
Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
Yes, rice, farro, or couscous work well as substitutes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely use tahini or a dairy-free dressing.