Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl

Name: Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Simple Health Recipes

I absolutely love creating meals that are both nutritious and satisfying, and this Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl is a perfect example. Combining tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a medley of vibrant vegetables, this dish packs a flavorful punch while being healthy. I love to prepare it for lunch or dinner, knowing I’m fueling my body right. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or leftovers, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen any day of the week.

Created by

Ninas

Last updated on 2026-02-06T17:14:27.439Z

When I first made this dish, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to prepare while still being packed with flavor. The combination of quinoa and chicken is not just delicious but incredibly nutritious, fitting perfectly into my busy lifestyle. I remember trying different spices to enhance the experience, and lemon juice added a refreshing touch that made everything come together beautifully.

One tip I found especially helpful is to cook the quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water. This simple trick infuses the quinoa with more depth of flavor, elevating the entire bowl. It’s a small change, but it made a significant difference in taste.

        You Will Love This Recipe Because
        Nutritious ingredients that promote a healthy lifestyle
Customizable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs
Packed with protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied

      

The Role of Quinoa

Quinoa serves as the hearty foundation for this bowl, providing not only a satisfying texture but also essential nutrients. This ancient grain is packed with protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. When cooked properly, quinoa becomes fluffy and slightly nutty, complementing the other ingredients beautifully. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly to remove any bitterness, which can be a common pitfall for beginners when preparing quinoa.

For a little extra flavor, try toasting the quinoa in the saucepan before adding the vegetable broth. Just heat it over medium heat for a few minutes until you can smell a nutty aroma, then proceed to add the broth. This step infuses the quinoa with a depth of flavor that enhances the entire dish.

Perfecting Chicken Preparation

The chicken in this bowl can make or break your meal. Using diced, cooked chicken breast is a great way to add lean protein, but if you’re looking for more flavor, consider marinating it beforehand in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes; this makes a significant difference in flavor and juiciness. If you're using leftovers, simply warm them gently to avoid drying them out.

When sautéing the chicken, keep the heat at medium to ensure even cooking without burning the outside. You'll know it’s perfectly heated when the chicken is glowing and has a slight golden edge. Drizzling lemon juice at the end, just before serving, adds brightness to the dish and enhances the overall freshness of the bowl.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best features of this Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl is its versatility. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on the season or what you have on hand. For example, bell peppers, roasted sweet potatoes, or even steamed broccoli work well. Don't hesitate to change the dressing; a tahini sauce or yogurt dressing can provide a different flavor profile that keeps the dish exciting.

To make this recipe more plant-based, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or grilled tempeh. The cooking method remains largely the same; just sauté these alternatives in olive oil to warm them through before assembling your bowl. Additionally, if you're meal-prepping, you can store individual components separately for up to four days in the fridge, then combine them fresh each day for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
1 pound chicken breast, cooked and diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Mix and match vegetables as per your preference!

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy.

Prepare the Chicken

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sauté until heated through. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the cooked quinoa, sautéed chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado. Drizzle with additional olive oil if desired.

Serve immediately and enjoy your nutritious bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your choice of nuts or seeds for an added crunch and nutritional boost.

Storage Suggestions

Leftover components of the Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. This prevents the quinoa from getting soggy and helps maintain the textures of the fresh vegetables. When ready to eat, simply reheat the quinoa and chicken in the microwave, or enjoy them cold as a salad. Consider adding a fresh sprinkle of lemon juice before serving for that zingy flavor.

If you’re looking to store the bowl for longer, you can freeze the quinoa and chicken. Just make sure they’re cooled completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them gently in a pan or microwave.

Serving Ideas

Serving this quinoa bowl in colorful bowls not only makes it visually appealing but also enhances the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro on top for an extra pop of flavor and color. If you like a bit of crunch, consider topping the bowl with toasted nuts or seeds; sunflower seeds, for instance, add a delightful texture.

For those looking to enhance their meal with more flavors, a dollop of hummus or a scoop of Greek yogurt can elevate the nutrition and taste. This addition not only enriches the bowl but also provides a creamy contrast to the crunchy vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but cooking times may vary.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It holds up well in meal prep containers and is perfect for grab-and-go lunches.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based option.