High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked quinoa; 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Meals

I absolutely love this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl because it's not only packed with protein but also incredibly flavorful. Preparing this dish quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, nutritious quinoa, and vibrant veggies creates a satisfying meal that fuels my day. Plus, it's easy to customize with whatever vegetables I have on hand. This recipe is perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner after a long day, making it a go-to for healthy eating. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

Odette Fairbanks

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:53:35.917Z

When I first made this bowl, I was pleasantly surprised by how satisfying it was without being heavy. The secret lies in the cooking technique: I marinate the chicken in a zesty blend of spices and lemon juice before grilling, which infuses each bite with flavor. Pairing it with fluffy, cooked quinoa creates a nutritious base that holds all the toppings beautifully.

One of my favorite moments was when I served this bowl to friends, and they couldn't believe how wholesome it was while still being so delicious. I recommend preparing extra quinoa to use throughout the week—it's a perfect meal prep hack!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Wholesome ingredients packed with nutrients
Versatile and can be customized to your taste
A perfect balance of flavors and textures

The Role of Quinoa

Quinoa is a remarkable ingredient in this bowl, serving not only as a base but also as a significant source of protein and fiber. When cooked, it should exhibit a fluffy texture with each grain remaining separate, which enhances the overall mouthfeel of the dish. For the best results, make sure to rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness from saponins, which can affect the flavor. This little step is crucial for achieving a pleasant and nutty taste that pairs perfectly with the other fresh ingredients.

In addition to its nutritional benefits, you can easily modify quinoa's flavor profile. Cooking it in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water can add an extra depth of flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding spices like cumin or turmeric during the cooking process; they can enhance the dish's overall aesthetic and provide a warm color, elevating both the visual and tasting experience.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best parts of this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl is its versatility. Depending on your pantry, you can swap out the vegetables for whatever is in season or available. Want to add some crunch? Replace cucumber with radishes or use a colorful mix of bell peppers. If you're seeking a different flavor profile, consider adding roasted sweet potatoes or even sautéed leafy greens, which will also provide an excellent source of nutrients while introducing a contrasting texture.

For those looking for dietary swaps, the chicken can be substituted with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option. Simply marinate the tofu the same way and grill until crispy, or use canned chickpeas for a quicker route, tossing them in the marinade and baking until slightly crispy. These modifications ensure that this dish remains a staple, accommodating both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike while retaining that signature protein punch.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl:

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked quinoa
2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Marinade

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Grill the marinated chicken on medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.

Prepare the Quinoa

If you haven’t cooked the quinoa yet, rinse it and boil it in a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio. Cook until fluffy, about 15 minutes, and then fluff with a fork.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer cooked quinoa, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and avocado. Top with fresh parsley.

Serve

Enjoy your High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl warm, or refrigerate it for a healthy meal prep option!

Now you're ready to dig in! Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any other seasonal vegetables you love. Roasted sweet potatoes or greens are excellent additions.

Storing and Meal Prep Tips

This High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl is an excellent option for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. When preparing in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate until you serve the bowl to avoid sogginess and maintain the freshness of your vegetables. Use airtight containers to keep everything fresh and ready to enjoy at a moment's notice, truly making healthy eating convenient and enjoyable.

If you're looking to extend the life of this dish, consider freezing the marinated chicken separately. You can freeze it in the marinade for up to three months, allowing the flavors to deepen further during storage. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and grill it as instructed for a quick meal that tastes freshly made.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue faced while cooking quinoa is getting the texture just right. If your quinoa turns out mushy, it may be due to overcooking or an incorrect water-to-quinoa ratio. Always stick to the 2:1 ratio for best results and keep an eye on it in the last few minutes of cooking to ensure it’s perfectly fluffy. If this happens, do not fret; simply cooling it in a wide dish can help remove excess moisture, allowing you to use it in salads or bowls effectively.

When preparing the chicken, a frequent mistake can be undercooking or overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption, with juices running clear upon slicing. If you find the chicken is getting too charred on the outside before cooking through, consider lowering the grill to medium heat, which will allow for more even cooking without burning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quinoa that I made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked quinoa works perfectly in this bowl.

→ What other proteins can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3 days.

→ Can this recipe be made in advance?

Yes, it's great for meal prep! You can prepare all the components and assemble when ready to eat.