Description
Mediterranean-inspired chicken quinoa bowl delivers a symphony of flavors dancing across a nourishing landscape of protein-packed quinoa and tender grilled chicken. Fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and creamy feta elevate this wholesome dish, inviting you to savor each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Cooking Fat:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth and salt, bringing to a rolling boil over high heat. Introduce rinsed quinoa, reduce temperature to low, cover, and allow to simmer for approximately 15 minutes until grains become tender and liquid completely absorbs.
- Remove quinoa from heat, gently fluff with a fork, and set aside to cool slightly.
- Massage chicken breasts with olive oil and a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring even coating.
- Heat skillet to medium-high temperature, positioning chicken breasts carefully to prevent overcrowding. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, monitoring internal temperature until reaching 165°F.
- Transfer cooked chicken from skillet, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain into uniform strips.
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl, adjusting seasonings to personal preference.
- Layer cooked quinoa as foundational base in serving bowls, creating a hearty canvas.
- Arrange fresh spinach or mixed greens alongside sliced chicken.
- Strategically place cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and corn around the bowl for visual appeal and balanced flavor profile.
- Drizzle prepared dressing generously over the entire composition.
- Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs for additional texture and aromatic complexity.
- Serve immediately to preserve optimal temperature and ingredient integrity.
Notes
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove bitter coating and ensure fluffy texture.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt content and enhance natural flavors.
- Choose free-range or organic chicken for better taste and nutritional profile.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help spices adhere and create perfect crispy exterior.
- Allow chicken to rest after cooking to retain juicy moisture and prevent dryness.
- Customize dressing by swapping lemon juice with lime or adding honey for sweetness.
- Make bowl vegetarian by replacing chicken with grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas.
- Prep ingredients in advance for quick weeknight meal assembly.
- Store dressing separately to prevent salad ingredients from getting soggy.
- Add extra protein with hard-boiled eggs or canned beans for more substantial meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 355 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 39 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg