High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 pound grilled chicken breast, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 cup fresh spinach; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lime, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Recipes

I love making this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl when I need a healthy and satisfying meal. It's packed with protein, thanks to the grilled chicken and quinoa, which also provides a hearty base. The array of colorful veggies not only adds nutrients but also makes the dish visually appealing. I can whip this up in no time, and it's perfect for meal prep throughout the week. Whether for lunch or dinner, this bowl never disappoints and keeps me energized all day long.

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:19:36.171Z

When I first decided to create this bowl, I wanted it to be not only delicious but also filling and nutritious. I experimented with different variations and found that a medley of bell peppers, spinach, and avocado really made the flavors pop. Plus, adding a squeeze of lime at the end truly elevates the dish, giving it a fresh twist. Cooking the quinoa in chicken broth is a game changer, providing extra flavor that pairs perfectly with the grilled chicken.

This bowl has become a staple in my home because I can customize it easily based on what I have in my pantry. You can swap the veggies or even change the protein if you’re feeling adventurous. The combination of textures and flavors satisfies my cravings, and it’s something I genuinely look forward to enjoying. It’s perfect for busy days when health and taste are top priorities!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with protein for a filling meal
Colorful veggies add both nutrition and flavor
Customizable for different tastes and diets

Cooking Quinoa Perfectly

Cooking quinoa can be a bit tricky if you're not familiar with it, but the key to perfect results is rinsing the grains before cooking. This removes any residual saponins that can give a bitter taste to your dish. For this recipe, use a fine mesh strainer to rinse one cup of quinoa under cold water for about 30 seconds. Once rinsed, cooking it in chicken broth rather than water adds a deeper flavor, taking this bowl from ordinary to exceptional.

After bringing the quinoa and broth to a boil, reduce the heat and cover the pot, allowing it to simmer gently. This will help the grains cook evenly without burning. You'll know it’s ready when all the liquid has been absorbed and the quinoa appears fluffy. If you see small white tails on the grains, congratulations, your quinoa is perfectly cooked! Just be careful not to let it sit too long in the pot, as this can lead to a mushy texture.

Choosing and Preparing Vegetables

The choice of vegetables in this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl not only enhances its nutritional profile but also its visual appeal. Bell peppers add vibrant colors and a slight sweetness, while fresh spinach provides iron and vitamins. Feel free to swap the peppers for zucchini or cherry tomatoes based on seasonal availability or personal preference. If you prefer more crunch, add some raw veggies like shredded carrots or radishes just before serving for added texture.

When sautéing the bell peppers, it's crucial to keep the heat at medium to allow for gradual cooking without burning. Stir them occasionally until they're tender but still crisp, about five minutes. This will enhance their natural sweetness and prevent them from becoming mushy. If desired, finish with a splash of balsamic vinegar or sprinkle of crushed red pepper for an extra kick.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare the High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl:

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
2 cups chicken broth
1 pound grilled chicken breast, sliced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 cup fresh spinach
1 avocado, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lime, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your bowl:

Cook Quinoa

In a medium pot, combine quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.

Prepare Vegetables

While quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bell peppers and sauté for 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Compile the Bowl

In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, sautéed peppers, fresh spinach, and sliced grilled chicken. Top with avocado slices and drizzle with lime juice.

Season and Serve

Season your bowl with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine before serving. Enjoy your healthy, high-protein meal!

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any leftover vegetables or your choice of dressing for variation. This bowl is perfect for meal prepping
just store the components separately until ready to eat.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This High Protein Chicken Quinoa Bowl is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy healthy lunches all week. Once prepared, store the components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The quinoa and chicken can last up to four days in the fridge, while the fresh spinach and avocado should be added just before serving to prevent wilting and browning.

If you want to save time during the week, cook a larger batch of quinoa and grill multiple chicken breasts at once. You can then portion them out for easy assembly. For a quick lunch, simply assemble a bowl using the prepped ingredients and add your favorite dressing or sauce.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability! You can easily transform this bowl by changing the protein; for instance, try using roasted chickpeas or shredded tofu for a vegetarian option. Alternatively, swap the grilled chicken for teriyaki salmon for a delightful flavor twist that pairs beautifully with quinoa and veggies.

Dive into different culinary influences by adding some spices to the dish. Consider using curry powder for a fragrant twist or Mexican spices like cumin and chili powder to give it a south-of-the-border flair. Finish with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another grain instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa with farro, brown rice, or even couscous, depending on your preference.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy, healthy lunches.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a protein-rich vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before enjoying!