You know, sometimes we just want something simple that still feels filling, and that’s where this Chicken and Quinoa Bowl really works. It’s basically a mix of tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a few vegetables all put together in one bowl, so it feels hearty without being heavy. The nice thing is that it doesn’t take much time at all, because you can cook everything in about half an hour, and if you already have leftover quinoa or chicken then it comes together even faster. It’s the kind of meal that works well for lunch or dinner, but honestly it can also be a quick option for a light snack when you want something healthy. It’s easy, flexible, and just comforting enough to enjoy any day.
What is Chicken & Quinoa Bowl?
A chicken and quinoa bowl is really just a simple mix of cooked quinoa, seasoned chicken, and a few vegetables all served together in one dish. It’s not fancy at all, but it feels filling and balanced because you get protein, fiber, and lots of nutrients in every bite. Most people eat it as a quick lunch or dinner since it comes together fast and doesn’t need complicated steps. You can also think of it like a grain bowl, which is a popular way of putting healthy ingredients together in one meal. It’s flexible enough that you can change the veggies or toppings depending on what you have at home, so it never feels boring.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to make: You don’t need to spend a long time in the kitchen because the whole dish comes together in about thirty minutes, which makes it really easy when you are busy and just want something filling without too much effort.
Simple ingredients: Most of the items are very basic pantry or fridge staples like chicken, quinoa, and a few vegetables, so you don’t have to go searching for anything complicated or unusual.
Easy to change up: You can swap the vegetables or even add different toppings depending on what you already have at home, so it never feels repetitive and you can make it fit your taste.
Beginner-friendly: The steps are very straightforward, so even if you don’t cook often you can still follow along and end up with a nice meal that looks and tastes good.
Works for any meal: It’s filling enough for lunch or dinner, but at the same time it can also be a lighter option if you just want a quick snack that feels healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients Needed:
When you look at this recipe, you’ll see that the ingredients are all very simple and easy to find, and each one has its own role in making the bowl taste good and feel balanced.
- Parsley – used at the end for garnish and a fresh touch.
- Quinoa – works as the base of the bowl and gives you protein and fiber.
- Chicken tenders – add lean protein and make the meal filling.
- Olive oil – helps with cooking and adds a little flavor.
- Paprika, turmeric, coriander, onion powder – bring seasoning and make the chicken taste more flavorful.
- Salt and black pepper – balance the taste and bring out the flavors.
- Kale – adds greens, texture, and extra nutrients.
- Cherry tomatoes – give freshness and a slight sweetness.
- Toasted almonds – add crunch and healthy fats.
You’ll find the full ingredient list with exact quantities in the recipe card below.
Step-By-Step Instructions to Make Chicken & Quinoa Bowl:
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Start by rinsing the quinoa so it doesn’t taste bitter, then place it in a pot with water or broth. Bring it to a gentle boil and let it simmer until the grains look soft and the liquid is absorbed. When it’s done, keep the lid on for a few minutes so the steam finishes the cooking. After that, fluff it with a fork so the grains separate and feel light instead of clumpy. Using broth instead of plain water can give it more flavor, and toasting the quinoa before cooking makes it smell nutty and taste richer.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Take the chicken and coat it with olive oil and the spice mix so every piece is covered evenly. If you have time, let it sit for a while so the flavors soak in better. Heat a skillet with a little oil and cook the chicken until the outside looks golden and the inside is no longer pink. Try not to move it too much so it gets a nice sear. Once it’s cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing, because that helps keep the juices inside and makes the meat taste tender.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the kale and sauté it until it looks wilted and slightly charred around the edges. This gives it a smoky flavor and makes it softer to eat. Remove the kale and then add the cherry tomatoes, cooking them until the skins start to wrinkle and they look juicy. You can do this with other vegetables too, like bell peppers or mushrooms, depending on what you have. Cooking them in the same pan as the chicken adds extra flavor because they pick up the seasoning left behind.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
Now it’s time to put everything together. Start with a layer of quinoa in each bowl, then add the sliced chicken on top. Place the kale and tomatoes around the chicken, and sprinkle the toasted almonds for crunch. Finish with a little parsley for freshness. The bowl should look colorful and balanced, with the grains at the bottom and the toppings spread out so every bite has a mix of textures.
Helpful Tips For The Best Results
Cook quinoa properly: Make sure to let the quinoa rest after cooking so the steam finishes the job, because that helps the texture stay fluffy instead of sticky.
Don’t rush the chicken: Keep the heat at medium so the chicken cooks evenly, since too high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw.
Rest the chicken before slicing: Letting the chicken sit for a few minutes keeps the juices inside, which makes the meat taste tender.
Swap broth for water: Cooking quinoa in broth instead of plain water adds extra flavor without needing more spices.
Use flexible veggies: If you don’t have kale or tomatoes, you can easily use spinach, peppers, or mushrooms, and they will still taste good.
Tasty Variations to Try:
- Mediterranean style: Add olives, feta cheese, and cucumber for a fresh and tangy flavor.
- Tex-Mex twist: Mix in black beans, corn, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a colorful bowl.
- Asian-inspired: Swap almonds for cashews, add soy sauce, and drizzle sesame oil for a different taste.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, seasoned the same way, for a plant-based version.
- Seasonal veggies: Use roasted sweet potatoes in fall or zucchini in summer to keep the bowl interesting.
- Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or hot sauce if you like a little heat with your meal.
Serving Suggestions:
1. Perfect for lunch or dinner:
This bowl works really well as a main meal during the day or evening, because it feels filling without being too heavy, and it gives you a good balance of protein and vegetables.
2. Serve with bread or pita:
If you want to make it a little more satisfying, you can add a slice of crusty bread or warm pita on the side, since that pairs nicely with the quinoa and chicken.
3. Pairs well with a light soup:
A simple vegetable or lentil soup can go along with this bowl, making the meal feel complete and cozy.
4. Great for meal prep:
You can pack it into containers and keep it ready for busy days, so it’s easy to grab for lunch at work or dinner at home.
5. Serve with a fresh drink:
A glass of iced tea, lemon water, or even a light smoothie can make the meal feel refreshing and balanced.
Storage & Reheating:
- How long it keeps: You can store the chicken and quinoa bowl in the fridge for about three to four days, and it usually stays fresh enough to enjoy during that time.
- Best storage method: Keep everything in an airtight container so the flavors don’t fade and the quinoa doesn’t dry out too quickly.
- Simple reheating advice: Warm it up in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth, which helps bring back the moisture and keeps the chicken from tasting dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
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Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can easily swap quinoa with rice, couscous, or even bulgur, and the bowl will still taste good, though the texture will feel a little different.
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Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the quinoa and chicken earlier in the day or even the night before, then store them separately in containers so they stay fresh until you are ready to assemble the bowl.
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Why does my quinoa feel mushy?
This usually happens if too much water is used or if it isn’t fluffed after cooking, so letting it rest and then separating the grains with a fork helps keep it light.
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Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, and as long as you check your seasonings and toppings, this bowl works well for gluten-free diets.
Chicken Quinoa Power Bowl
Description
This chicken and quinoa bowl is a simple, balanced meal that mixes fluffy quinoa, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables all in one dish. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for lunch or dinner when you want something hearty but still healthy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse 1 ½ cups uncooked quinoa, then place in a saucepan with 2 ¼ cups water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the liquid is absorbed. Let rest for about 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon olive oil with ½ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon turmeric, ¼ teaspoon coriander, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Coat 1 pound chicken tenders evenly in the mixture.
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden and juices run clear. Remove from skillet, let rest, then slice into strips.
- In the same skillet, sauté 6 cups chopped kale until softened and slightly charred, about 3-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add 1 pint cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until softened and skins begin to wrinkle, about 3-5 minutes.
- Assemble bowls by dividing the quinoa, chicken, kale, and tomatoes evenly among 4 servings. Top with ½ cup toasted slivered almonds and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use chicken broth instead of water when cooking quinoa for extra flavor.
- Resting the chicken before slicing keeps it juicy and tender.
- Swap kale with spinach or bell peppers if you prefer different vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1 bowl
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 447kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 19g30%
- Saturated Fat 2g10%
- Sodium 346mg15%
- Potassium 1205mg35%
- Total Carbohydrate 58g20%
- Dietary Fiber 7g29%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 17g34%
- Vitamin A 10742 IU
- Vitamin C 148 mg
- Calcium 229 mg
- Iron 6 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000‑calorie diet, and your daily needs may be higher or lower depending on your lifestyle. Nutrition information is shared only as a general estimate and may not always be fully accurate. If you follow a special diet or have specific health concerns, it’s best to check with a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.
