High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked quinoa; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, diced; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Wellness Meals

When I first tried making a high protein chicken quinoa bowl, I was genuinely surprised by how satisfying it turned out. Combining tender chicken, nutty quinoa, and fresh veggies, this bowl not only pleases the palate but also keeps me feeling full longer. I love how easy it is to prepare and how I can customize it with different ingredients. This meal has become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I'm looking for something nutritious yet delicious.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:10:13.211Z

My journey with the high protein chicken quinoa bowl started when I was looking for a meal that combined nutrition and flavor. As I experimented with various ingredients, I selected quinoa, which is packed with protein and fiber, making it a fantastic base. The method of cooking the chicken with spices not only enhances the flavor but also ensures it stays juicy.

One tip I found particularly helpful is to let the quinoa cool slightly before assembling the bowl. This allows it to soak up the flavors of the dressing while still maintaining a delightful texture. Trust me, this small step makes a world of difference in taste and freshness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with protein to fuel your day
Fresh and vibrant flavors in every bite
Customizable to suit your taste preferences

The Role of Quinoa

Quinoa serves as the heart of this bowl, providing not only a satisfying, nutty flavor but also a wealth of nutrients. Packed with protein and fiber, quinoa is a complete grain that helps keep you full longer. When cooked properly, it has a fluffy texture with a slight crunch. To ensure optimal cooking, remember to rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness from the saponins on its outer layer.

Choosing the right quinoa is also important. You can often find white, red, or black quinoa at your local grocery store. Each type varies slightly in flavor and texture, with red quinoa having a earthier taste. This can add visual appeal and flavor complexity to your bowl, so feel free to mix different varieties for a stunning presentation.

Perfectly Seasoned Chicken

The seasoning of the chicken is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor of the bowl. Using garlic powder and paprika adds depth to the chicken without overpowering the freshness of the vegetables. When cooking, aim to let the chicken sear in the skillet for a few minutes before stirring; this will create a nice golden crust that enhances the flavor. Make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as overcooking can lead to dry chicken—ideally, it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

If you’re looking for alternatives, boneless skinless thighs can be a tastier, juicier option compared to breasts, as they remain moist during cooking. Additionally, marinating the chicken in a mixture of the dressing ingredients before cooking can further infuse flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

One of the best aspects of the High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl is its meal-prepping potential. You can cook the quinoa and chicken in advance to save time on busy days. Store the quinoa and chicken separately from the vegetables and dressing in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. This not only keeps the textures intact but also allows you to customize each serving with fresh veggies just before eating.

When ready to enjoy, you can reheat the chicken and quinoa in the microwave for a minute or two until warmed through, or enjoy them cold for a refreshing twist. Just be sure to add the fresh ingredients and dressing at the last minute to maintain their freshness and crunch.

Ingredients

Chicken and Quinoa Base

2 cups cooked quinoa
1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Fresh Vegetables

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, chopped

Dressing

2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

Rinse quinoa under cold water. Combine 1 cup quinoa and 2 cups water in a saucepan. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Chicken

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes or until fully cooked and no longer pink.

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, and red onion. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.

Pro Tips

To make this bowl even more nutritious, consider adding some leafy greens like spinach or kale for added vitamins and minerals.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize your bowl with different toppings and ingredients based on your preferences. Adding grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers can enhance the dish's flavor while providing additional nutrients. Your favorite cheese, such as feta or crumbled goat cheese, can give a creamy, tangy finish that complements the freshness of the bowl.

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. Alternatively, for a Mediterranean twist, you could swap the balsamic dressing for a tahini-based sauce to complement the other fresh ingredients perfectly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your quinoa comes out mushy or too sticky, it could be due to using too much water during cooking. Always follow the 1:2 quinoa-to-water ratio and let it rest after cooking to absorb any remaining moisture. If you’d prefer a slightly firmer texture, reduce the cooking time by a couple of minutes.

When cooking chicken, the main issue is often overcooking, which leads to dryness. To prevent this, ensure that your skillet is preheated before adding the chicken, and monitor the cooking closely. If you notice the chicken is turning too dark before being fully cooked, reduce the heat slightly to maintain an even cooking temperature.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl further, consider serving it alongside a piece of warm, crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette-dressed salad can complement the bowl well and provide additional textures. Additionally, pairing the bowl with a refreshing drink like sparkling water with lemon adds a nice touch.

For a fun presentation, serve the bowl ingredients layered in a clear dish. This not only makes for a visually appealing dish but also allows guests to mix the ingredients together according to their preference, thereby enjoying a personalized meal experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled or roasted chicken works great in this bowl.

→ Is this bowl gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this bowl a perfect option for gluten-sensitive diets.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes! This bowl stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add peppers, corn, or any seasonal veggies you enjoy!