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Healthy Quinoa Chicken Bowl Recipe Easy Balanced Macros Meal Prep

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A quick, healthy, and delicious quinoa chicken bowl packed with fresh veggies and balanced macros, perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 ounces), trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, avocado slices, toasted pumpkin seeds or slivered almonds

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. Add quinoa, 2 cups water or broth, and a pinch of salt to a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry. Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub seasoning evenly over chicken.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is golden brown. Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  4. Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, shred carrots, chop herbs, and thinly slice red onion if using. Toss together gently in a bowl.
  5. Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
  6. Divide quinoa into bowls. Top with sliced chicken, fresh veggie mix, and drizzle with dressing. Add optional toppings if desired.
  7. Gently toss or serve as is for presentation. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for juiciness. Rinse quinoa to remove bitterness. For meal prep, store chicken and veggies separately and consume within 4 days. Dressing can be shaken in a jar for convenience. Variations include swapping chicken for roasted chickpeas or tofu for vegetarian options.

Nutrition

Keywords: quinoa chicken bowl, healthy meal prep, balanced macros, quick dinner, fresh veggies, easy recipe, gluten-free

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/healthy-quinoa-chicken-bowl-recipe-easy-balanced-macros-meal-prep/