Description
This Chicken Quinoa Bowl is a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired meal combining protein-packed chicken with fluffy quinoa and fresh vegetables. Bright lemon juice and herbs bring refreshing flavor, making it perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. Easy to make and customizable, it’s ideal for meal prep or a quick nourishing option.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Toppings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and allow it to sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam. Fluff with a fork before serving.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the quinoa cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 6 to 8 minutes until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked quinoa evenly into 4 bowls. Top each portion with the cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with the fresh lemon juice and garnish with the chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve the bowls warm or chilled, according to preference.
Notes
- For added creaminess, add a dollop of hummus or drizzle tahini dressing on top.
- Chicken can be substituted with grilled shrimp or tofu to suit dietary preferences.
- Perfect for meal prep—store cooked components separately and assemble fresh before serving.
