High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup spinach, fresh; 1 avocado, sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Meal Inspirations

I absolutely love making this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl. It's my go-to meal for a delicious and nutritious lunch or dinner that keeps me energized. The combination of tender chicken, hearty quinoa, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying dish that doesn't leave me feeling sluggish. Plus, I appreciate how quickly it comes together, allowing me to enjoy a healthy meal even on my busiest days. This bowl is packed with flavor and protein, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to boost their nutrition.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:55:12.107Z

When I first made this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl, I was surprised at how quickly the vibrant flavors came together. The marinated chicken was perfectly grilled, providing a smoky richness that paired wonderfully with the nutty quinoa. I discovered that allowing the quinoa to rest after cooking helps enhance its flavor and light texture, which I now always do.

One specific tip I’ve learned is to customize the bowl with seasonal vegetables. Recently, I added roasted bell peppers and spinach, which not only brightened the dish but also pumped up its nutritional value. Trying new veggies keeps the meal exciting every time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich in protein and perfect for muscle recovery
Fresh ingredients that add vibrant flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for meal prep

      

Mastering Quinoa Cooking

Cooking quinoa correctly can elevate your bowl, transforming it from a mere ingredient into a star player. Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. After rinsing, combining it with chicken broth enhances the flavor. When cooking, keep the heat at a gentle simmer; too high a temperature can lead to uneven cooking, where the quinoa might burn at the bottom while remaining crunchy on top.

Once your quinoa is done, allow it to sit for about five minutes before fluffing. This resting period lets the grains absorb any remaining liquid, ensuring every bite is tender and fluffy. Use a fork to gently separate the grains and avoid mashing them, which could result in a gummy texture. Properly cooked quinoa should be slightly chewy yet tender, and you’ll notice the little germ spirals that indicate it’s perfectly cooked.

Perfectly Grilled Chicken

When grilling the chicken, maintaining a consistent medium heat is crucial for achieving even cooking and preventing dryness. If your grill tends to flare up, consider using an indirect heat method; this means placing the chicken away from direct flames while still cooking it through. I recommend using a meat thermometer—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for optimal safety and juiciness. Allowing the chicken to rest post-cooking for about 5 minutes helps retain its juices, giving you moist, flavorful slices every time.

For flavor variations, consider marinating the chicken beforehand with spices or citrus zest. A simple blend of herbs like thyme or rosemary could add aromatic depth. If you don’t have a grill, a stovetop grill pan would work just as well—just ensure it's preheated to prevent sticking and promote those enticing grill marks that add visual appeal to your bowl.

Serving and Storing Tips

Assembling your High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl is about showcasing fresh ingredients. Layer your bowl starting with quinoa, followed by chicken, and top with colorful vegetables such as bright cherry tomatoes and vibrant spinach. The avocado adds a creamy richness, balancing the dish's textures. For an extra kick, you might garnish with a sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of nuts for added crunch and flavor. This design not only looks appealing but also ensures a balanced bite with each forkful.

If you’re meal prepping, this bowl stores remarkably well in the fridge for up to four days. Keep the dressing in a separate container to maintain freshness, drizzling it just before eating. To reheat, use a microwave for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through. For those seeking a cold option, serve the quinoa and chicken chilled with additional fresh greens, making it refreshing for warm weather meals. You can also add roasted vegetables for a cozy twist.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 cup quinoa
2 cups chicken broth
2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach, fresh
1 avocado, sliced

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients to create a filling and nutritious meal!

Instructions

Cook Quinoa

In a pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Prepare Chicken

Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove from grill and let rest before slicing.

Assemble Bowl

In a bowl, layer quinoa, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Top with avocado slices.

Make Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the assembled bowl prior to serving.

Enjoy your wholesome and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies to tailor this bowl to your tastes!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for ingredient substitutions, quinoa can be replaced with farro or brown rice if you prefer a different grain texture. Both alternatives maintain a hearty feel while adding unique nutty flavors. For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice would be an excellent substitute, and it cooks quickly—just sauté it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s tender without turning mushy.

For the protein, turkey or firm tofu can serve as great alternatives to chicken. If using tofu, press it first to remove excess moisture and then marinate. Skewered and grilled or sautéed, it can infuse bold flavors, just like the chicken. Likewise, canned chickpeas offer a quick protein boost—drain, rinse, and toss them in with the vegetables before serving.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl by changing up the veggies based on the season or your preferences. Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even seasonal asparagus can add delicious flavors and nutrients. Additionally, you can mix in different greens like arugula or kale for unique taste profiles—just remember to massage tougher greens like kale to soften them before adding.

To switch up the dressing, consider a tahini-based sauce or a balsamic reduction for a different flavor dimension. Adding sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds enhances the dish's crunch while also boosting the protein content. You can also incorporate spices such as smoked paprika or cumin for a unique twist that takes this bowl to the next level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely! This bowl stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use quinoa that is already cooked?

Yes, you can! Just substitute 1 cup of pre-cooked quinoa and skip the cooking step.

→ What other vegetables go well in this bowl?

You can add bell peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, or any seasonal greens you enjoy!

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.