Healthy Chicken And Quinoa Bowl

Name: Healthy Chicken And Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups spinach, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, sliced; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy Kitchen Moments

I love creating meals that are not only nourishing but also bursting with flavor, which is exactly what this Healthy Chicken and Quinoa Bowl brings to the table. Packed with lean protein, wholesome grains, and fresh vegetables, this bowl has become a go-to for me on busy weeknights. The combination of spices and fresh herbs transforms this dish into a vibrant, satisfying meal. I find that preparing the components in advance makes it easy to assemble and enjoy whenever hunger strikes, making it a win-win in my kitchen!

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:38:36.701Z

When I first tried making a quinoa bowl, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how satisfying it was. I decided to incorporate tender grilled chicken, fresh spinach, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette for an unforgettable flavorburst. I found that marinating the chicken overnight infused it with maximum flavor, and the quinoa added the perfect texture to make each bite enjoyable.

Another tip I discovered was to roast the vegetables instead of steaming them. This small change not only caramelizes their natural sugars, enhancing their taste, but also provides a delightful contrast to the tender chicken. Trust me, this bowl not only nourishes the body but also pleases the palate!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious ingredients packed with flavor
Customizable to your taste preferences
Perfect meal prep option for busy weeks

Mastering the Quinoa

Cooking quinoa perfectly is essential to achieving the desired fluffy texture. Always rinse the quinoa well under cold water for about 60 seconds before cooking. This step removes any bitterness from the saponins. When simmering, keep the heat medium-low and make sure to cover the pot tightly to retain steam, which helps the grains expand. Once done, the quinoa should look slightly translucent and should have a tail - the germ - that separates from the grain, showcasing its readiness.

To enhance the flavor further, consider cooking quinoa in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water. This adds a depth of savory taste that complements the rest of the bowl beautifully. If you're preparing this bowl in advance, you can cook a larger batch of quinoa and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to five days, giving you a convenient base for several meals.

Perfectly Cooked Chicken

Marinating the chicken in olive oil and spices not only infuses flavors but also helps keep the meat moist during cooking. Aim for at least 15-30 minutes of marination, but if short on time, even a quick toss will do. Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this will yield that nice browning, which adds to the overall flavor profile. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

If you prefer a healthier method, consider grilling the chicken instead of pan-frying. This method allows excess fat to drip away while still achieving that beautiful charred exterior. For added convenience on busy nights, you can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken; just stir it in with your roasted veggies for a quick, satisfying assembly.

Vegetable Versatility

Roasting the bell peppers and cherry tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, creating a perfect contrast to the savory chicken and nutty quinoa. Keep an eye on the veggies while roasting; they should be tender and slightly blistered at the edges. If roasting a large batch, consider tossing in other vegetables like zucchini or asparagus according to your preferences or seasonal availability.

For meal prep enthusiasts, consider preparing a variety of roasted vegetables ahead of time and storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to four days and make for a quick addition to salads or wraps. A successful bowl is all about balance, so mix and match your favorite greens and sauces to keep your meals exciting and vibrant throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for your Healthy Chicken and Quinoa Bowl:

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
2 cups chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups spinach, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Now that you have your ingredients sorted, let's move on to the cooking steps.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your bowl:

Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then combine it with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the diced chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 8-10 minutes until it is browned and cooked through.

Roast the Vegetables

On a baking tray, toss together the bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the cooked quinoa at the bottom, followed by the grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, chopped spinach, and avocado slices. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious, healthy bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference. You can also use leftover chicken or quinoa to save time.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Healthy Chicken and Quinoa Bowl is a stellar option for meal prep. Cooked quinoa and chicken can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. To prevent the quinoa from drying out, drizzle a little olive oil before storing. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the components in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of water to the quinoa if necessary to restore moisture.

If you're looking to freeze components for longer storage, quinoa freezes beautifully. Spread it out on a baking sheet to cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Chicken can also be frozen but should be consumed within three months for optimal flavor and texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even cooking.

Customization Options

Feel free to customize this bowl to fit your taste or dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas. Additionally, you can experiment with different spices; for instance, a touch of cumin could elevate the flavor. Also, consider different toppings like feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy finish.

Incorporating seasonal ingredients is a great way to keep this bowl fresh and exciting. For a fall twist, add roasted sweet potatoes and kale; in summer, try incorporating zucchini or corn. The versatility of this dish allows for endless variations, turning it into a staple in your meal rotation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this bowl vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with black beans or chickpeas for added protein.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken, quinoa, and veggies ahead of time; then assemble the bowl when you're ready to eat.

→ What variations can I try?

You can add different grains like brown rice or farro, or replace vegetables based on what you have on hand.