π₯ Chicken Quinoa Bowl: A Healthy, Flavor-Packed Meal in Minutes! π
Looking for a nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-make meal thatβs perfect for lunch or dinner? Meet the Chicken Quinoa Bowl! Packed with protein, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing, this bowl is a balanced meal thatβs as satisfying as it is colorful. Whether youβre meal-prepping or just craving something wholesome, this bowl has got you covered. Letβs dig in! π₯
Thank you for reading this post, don’t forget to subscribe!Why Youβll Love This Recipe π
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Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
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Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutesβperfect for busy days!
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Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or proteins.
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Meal-Prep Friendly: Stays fresh in the fridge for days.
Ingredients π
(Serves 2, but can easily be doubled!)
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa π
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, grilled or baked
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved π
- 1 avocado, sliced π₯
- 1 cup cucumber, diced π₯
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots π₯
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or kale) π₯¬
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice π
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Sesame seeds or crushed nuts (optional)
Directions π©βπ³
1. Cook the Quinoa
- Rinse 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa under cold water.
- Cook according to package instructions (usually 1 part quinoa to 2 parts water). Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices (like paprika or garlic powder).
- Grill, bake, or pan-sear until cooked through (internal temperature of 165Β°F/74Β°C). Slice into strips.
3. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Bowl
- Divide the cooked quinoa between two bowls.
- Top with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, carrots, red onion, and mixed greens.
- Drizzle with the zesty dressing and garnish with fresh herbs and sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions π½οΈ
- Add a Kick: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for some heat. πΆοΈ
- Go Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas or tofu. π±
- Extra Crunch: Add a handful of toasted nuts or seeds for texture.
Storage and Reheating Tips π₯‘
- Refrigerate: Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm the chicken and quinoa in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Add fresh veggies and dressing just before serving.
Why This Recipe Works π‘
- Balanced and Filling: The combination of quinoa, chicken, and veggies keeps you full and energized.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and cook time make it perfect for busy schedules.
- Customizable: Use whatever veggies or proteins you have on handβitβs a great fridge clean-out meal!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) π
(Approximate values)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 5g
Final Thoughts π
This Chicken Quinoa Bowl is the ultimate healthy mealβquick, easy, and packed with flavor and nutrients. Itβs perfect for meal prep, a light lunch, or a satisfying dinner. Plus, itβs so versatile, youβll never get bored!
So grab your favorite veggies, whip up that zesty dressing, and letβs build the ultimate bowl! π₯β¨
Tried this recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag us on social mediaβweβd love to see your bowl creations! πΈ