Healthy Dinner Chicken And Quinoa Bowl

Name: Healthy Dinner Chicken And Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love this Healthy Dinner Chicken And Quinoa Bowl! It’s not just nourishing, but it also bursts with flavor and texture. With tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and vibrant veggies, this dish is a complete meal that resonates with freshness. I always keep the ingredients on hand, making it a go-to option for those busy weeknights. The best part? It’s packed with protein and essential nutrients that keep me feeling energized and satisfied. If you’re on the lookout for a wholesome dinner idea, this recipe should definitely be on your radar.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-02-28T01:21:35.532Z

When I first tried this Healthy Dinner Chicken And Quinoa Bowl, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it turned out. I marinated the chicken in a mix of lemon juice and herbs, which not only tenderized the meat but infused it with vibrant flavor. The combination of quinoa and roasted vegetables creates a heartiness that balances the dish perfectly.

One of my standout tips is to use seasonal vegetables – they not only enhance the bowl's presentation but also provide maximum flavor and nutrition. This meal is versatile, and I’ve successfully swapped out the chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version on busy nights.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with protein and nutrients for a wholesome meal
Versatile ingredients that can be swapped based on preference
Quick preparation ideal for weeknight dinners

Perfecting the Quinoa

Quinoa is a fantastic base for this bowl, offering a nutty flavor and satisfying texture. To achieve the perfect fluffiness, remember to rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer before cooking; this removes the natural coating known as saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. Cooking it in vegetable broth not only enhances the flavor but also infuses the quinoa with essential nutrients, making every bite a healthy choice.

When simmering the quinoa, keep an eye on the heat level. Start with high heat to bring the broth to a boil, then promptly reduce it to low for a gentle simmer. This allows the quinoa to cook evenly and absorb all the liquid. You'll know it's ready when you see little tails unraveling from each seed, a sure sign that it's perfectly cooked!

Step-by-Step Chicken Preparation

For the chicken, marinating is essential for flavor. By tossing the diced chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, you’re not only enhancing its taste but also helping to keep it moist during cooking. I suggest letting the chicken marinade for about 15-30 minutes if you have the time; this allows the spices to penetrate deeper. If you're in a rush, even a quick toss before cooking will still yield delicious results.

When cooking the chicken in the skillet, aim for a medium-high heat to achieve that golden-brown exterior. Make sure the skillet is preheated for about 2 minutes before adding the chicken, allowing it to sear properly. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 6-8 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it's both safe and juicy!

Sautéing Vegetables to Perfection

The colorful veggies not only add nutrition but also vibrancy to your bowl. When sautéing the bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, aim for a medium heat to avoid burning. You want the vegetables to be tender yet still crisp, usually taking about 5-7 minutes. A great tip is to add a pinch of salt early on, which helps draw out moisture and enhances the overall flavor.

If you prefer an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice to the skillet during the last minute of cooking. This will brighten the dish and complement the earthiness of the quinoa and chicken beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Healthy Dinner Chicken and Quinoa Bowl:

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your Healthy Dinner Chicken and Quinoa Bowl:

Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix diced chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add chopped bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, start with a base of quinoa, then top with sautéed vegetables and cooked chicken. Finish with sliced avocado and fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or additional vegetables to customize the bowl to your taste. This recipe is also great for meal prep
simply store in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

Storing and Reheating

This Healthy Dinner Chicken and Quinoa Bowl is perfect for meal prepping! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the components separate until you're ready to eat, ensuring the quinoa and chicken remain fresh without getting soggy.

When reheating, do so in the microwave in 30-second intervals to prevent overcooking. Alternatively, you can warm everything in a skillet on low heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist and prevent drying out. You might find that it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this recipe based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences! Swap quinoa for brown rice or farro for a different texture, or even use a mix of grains. For added protein, you might consider tossing in some chickpeas or black beans. These not only increase the protein content but also add more fiber.

You can also play with the vegetable mix; try adding sweet corn, spinach, or even some roasted sweet potatoes for a twist. If you’re looking for extra freshness, a sprinkle of feta cheese or a drizzle of tahini dressing right before serving can elevate this bowl to an even more delicious experience!

Serving Suggestions

This bowl can stand alone as a complete meal, but feel free to round out your dinner with a side of fresh greens or a light soup. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, providing a peppery contrast to the hearty bowl. If you're hosting, it makes for a fantastic buffet-style meal where everyone can assemble their own bowl.

For extra brightness, consider garnishing with fresh herbs. Chopped cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top can enhance the flavors significantly, making the dish even more appealing. Plus, it adds a pop of color that will make your dinner table look more inviting!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! Brown rice or farro would work well as alternatives.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you confirm that your vegetable broth is gluten-free, the dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ How can I make this bowl vegan?

Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth to keep it entirely plant-based.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this bowl is great for meal prep. Just store the components separately and assemble when ready to eat.