Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl

Name: Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups water; 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1 cup bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup spinach or mixed greens; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons vinegar (balsamic or apple cider); 1 teaspoon honey (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Borderless Food

I love creating dishes that not only taste great but also nourish my body, and this Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl is a fantastic example. Packed with protein and colorful veggies, it’s my go-to meal for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner. The combination of juicy grilled chicken and fluffy quinoa, tossed with fresh greens and a zesty dressing, makes each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing for endless adaptations based on what I have in the fridge. You’ll absolutely want to give this one a try!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-06T16:57:27.571Z

When I first experimented with quinoa, I was amazed by its nutty flavor and incredible health benefits. This Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl quickly became one of my favorite meals to prepare. I discovered that marinating the chicken in a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic not only enhances its flavor but also keeps it juicy while cooking. From that moment on, it became my staple recipe.

Another fantastic tip I can share is to always rinse the quinoa before cooking it. This removes its natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. I find that rinsing helps achieve that light and fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and fresh vegetables in this dish.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and fiber for a satisfying meal
Bright, fresh flavors that energize your day
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies and sauces

      

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl not only adds unique flavor but also plays a vital role in nutrition. Quinoa, for instance, is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. It’s also rich in fiber, which aids digestion and provides a feeling of fullness. When preparing the quinoa, make sure to rinse it thoroughly beforehand to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste if not washed off.

The choice of veggies in this bowl is incredibly flexible. I love using cherry tomatoes for their sweetness and crunch, but feel free to swap them out for roasted zucchini or seasonal vegetables. This recipe also accommodates dietary preferences; for a vegan option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or grilled tofu. These swaps maintain the protein content and ensure the dish remains satisfying.

Perfecting the Chicken

Marinating the chicken enhances its moisture and flavor, so don't skimp on this step! A good marinade should ideally range from 30 minutes to 2 hours; however, if you're short on time, even a brief 10-minute soak will still impart some flavor. If you prefer a smoky taste, consider using a grill or a grill pan to achieve those lovely char marks and a slight crispiness on the outside, while keeping the inside juicy.

When cooking the chicken, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Remember, resting the chicken after grilling is crucial; this allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is tender. Slicing too early can result in dryness, so let it rest for at least 5 minutes on the cutting board before you dig in.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious bowl:

For the Chicken Bowl

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup bell pepper, chopped
1 cup spinach or mixed greens
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons vinegar (balsamic or apple cider)
1 teaspoon honey (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure everything is prepped and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl:

Prepare the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and spinach. Top with sliced chicken.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the bowl and toss gently to combine.

Enjoy your vibrant and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any leftovers or additional ingredients you have, such as avocado or nuts, to enhance the flavors and textures.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the quinoa and chicken in advance, storing both in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. The dressing can also be made ahead of time; just keep it separate until you're ready to assemble the bowl. This not only preserves the freshness of the ingredients but also speeds up the process when you're ready for lunch or dinner.

To reheat the chicken without drying it out, consider using the microwave with a splash of water to create steam. This helps retain moisture and keeps the chicken flavorful. For the quinoa, a quick reheat in the microwave or on the stove will restore its fluffy texture. Just add a little water if it seems dry!

Serving Suggestions

This bowl is delicious as-is, but you can elevate it further with toppings. A sprinkle of feta cheese or avocado adds creaminess, while a handful of nuts or seeds introduces a satisfying crunch. For a spicy kick, consider drizzling some sriracha or adding jalapeños; these additions make it a more exciting dish for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

If you’re looking to transform this bowl into a more filling meal, serve it alongside a warm flatbread or a side of lentil soup. The combination of flavors from both dishes can create a delightful culinary experience, turning your Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl into a heartier feast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quinoa without rinsing it?

Yes, but rinsing helps remove bitterness from saponins, improving the flavor.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

Tofu or chickpeas are great vegetarian alternatives that work well.

→ How long does leftover quinoa last?

Cooked quinoa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked quinoa and chicken separately for up to 2 months.