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Healthy Simple Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe for Easy High-Protein Meals

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A quick and wholesome chicken quinoa bowl packed with protein, fresh veggies, and a bright lemony dressing, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed well
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (optional)
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water for about 30 seconds and drain well. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  2. While quinoa cooks, season 1 lb chicken breast with minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear. Remove from pan and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
  3. Dice cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, thinly slice red onion, and chop parsley or cilantro. Place all in a large mixing bowl.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, 1 tbsp olive oil (optional), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in Greek yogurt if using for a creamy dressing.
  5. Add fluffed quinoa and sliced chicken to the bowl with veggies. Pour dressing over everything and toss gently to combine.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or chill for 10-15 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

Rinse quinoa well to remove bitterness. Pound chicken to even thickness for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy. Keep dressing separate if storing leftovers to maintain veggie crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken quinoa bowl, healthy chicken recipe, high protein meal, easy dinner, meal prep bowl, gluten-free, quick chicken recipe

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/healthy-simple-chicken-quinoa-bowl-recipe-for-easy-high-protein-meals/