Print

Easy High-Protein Chicken Quinoa Meal Prep Bowls Perfect for Weight Loss

high-protein chicken quinoa meal prep bowls - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick, healthy, and filling meal prep bowl featuring juicy chicken, fluffy quinoa, and fresh veggies, perfect for busy weeks and weight loss goals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Optional Dressing:
  • 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free coconut yogurt)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa, 2 cups chicken broth or water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam.
  2. While quinoa cooks, pat dry 1 lb chicken breasts. Rub with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium heat; when hot, add chicken. Cook 5-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 5 minutes, then slice into strips or cubes.
  3. While chicken rests, halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, dice 1 cup cucumber, shred 1/2 cup carrots, and chop 1/4 cup parsley. Slice 1 ripe avocado just before assembling to prevent browning.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste (optional).
  5. Fluff quinoa with a fork. Divide quinoa evenly into meal prep containers. Top with chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, and parsley. Add sliced avocado on top. Drizzle with lemon juice and optional dressing if using.
  6. Seal containers and refrigerate. These bowls keep well for up to 4 days.

Notes

Rinse quinoa to avoid bitterness and let it steam after cooking for fluffiness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F. Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a good sear. Add lemon juice before serving to brighten flavors. Store bowls in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Add avocado fresh to prevent browning. Reheat chicken and quinoa gently and add fresh veggies after warming.

Nutrition

Keywords: high-protein, chicken quinoa bowl, meal prep, weight loss, healthy dinner, easy recipe, gluten-free, low-carb option

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/easy-high-protein-chicken-quinoa-meal-prep-bowls-perfect-for-weight-loss/