As a busy chef, I know how tough it can be to stick to your healthy eating goals, especially after the indulgence of the holidays. But with this high-protein Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowl, you can reset your body and your taste buds in just a few minutes. It’s the perfect fuel to power you through the New Year.
Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowl for New Year Reset
This easy, one-bowl meal is a nutrition powerhouse that’s surprisingly quick to make. The combination of lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats will keep you feeling full and satisfied, so you can say goodbye to those pesky afternoon cravings. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable to suit your personal tastes or whatever you have in the fridge. Get ready to feel energized, nourished, and ready to tackle the new year.
Ingredients (Single-Serve)
You only need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this flavor-packed power bowl. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a lean protein boost, while quinoa adds filling fiber and complex carbs. Fresh veggies like spinach, tomatoes, and cucumbers provide a crunchy, refreshing contrast. And a drizzle of tangy balsamic dressing ties it all together.
- 4 oz – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup – Cooked quinoa
- 1 cup – Baby spinach
- 1/2 cup – Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup – Cucumber, diced
- 2 tbsp – Balsamic vinaigrette
Ingredient Substitutions
- Protein: Swap in chickpeas or tofu for the chicken for a vegetarian or vegan option.
- Grain: Use brown rice instead of quinoa if that’s what you have on hand.
How to Make High-Protein Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowl for New Year Reset
The beauty of this recipe is that it comes together in just a few simple steps, so you can get a nutritious meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Prep Work
Start by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions. While that’s simmering, season the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper. Microwave them for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Dice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Grab a large bowl and add the quinoa, chicken, spinach, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the top and give everything a good toss to coat. And just like that, your high-protein power bowl is ready to enjoy!
Step 4: Finishing Touches
For extra flavor and crunch, try topping your bowl with a sprinkle of toasted nuts, seeds, or a dollop of hummus.
Variations & Time-Saver Tips
- Use Leftover Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed tofu are perfect swaps to save even more time.
- Switch Up the Grain: Swap the quinoa for brown rice, farro, or cauliflower rice.
- Add More Veggies: Roasted sweet potatoes or bell peppers add a pop of color and sweetness.
- Meal Prep Like a Pro: Cook the quinoa and chicken in advance so you can assemble your power bowls in a flash.
Serving, Storage & Reheat
Serve with: A sprinkle of toasted nuts, seeds, or a dollop of hummus for extra flavor and crunch.
Storage: Store any leftover portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Microwave Reheat: This power bowl reheats beautifully in the microwave. Just give it a quick 30-60 seconds to warm through.
Make-Ahead: Prep the components in advance and assemble right before eating for an even quicker meal.
Nutrition Info
Each serving of this high-protein Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowl packs a nutritional punch with around 400 calories, 40g of protein, 40g of carbs, and 12g of healthy fats. It’s a perfectly balanced meal that will keep you feeling full and fueled.
- Serving Size: 1 power bowl
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 40 g
- Carbs: 40 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
FAQs
How can I make this recipe even quicker?
Cooking the quinoa and chicken in advance is a total time-saver. You can even use pre-cooked or frozen chicken to shave off a few extra minutes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The components can be prepped 2-3 days in advance. Simply store the quinoa, chicken, veggies, and dressing separately, then assemble right before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free quinoa, this power bowl is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu. And for a vegan option, skip the chicken and use a plant-based protein like roasted tempeh or edamame.
How can I make this recipe more filling?
To amp up the satiety factor, try adding a sprinkle of nuts, seeds, or a dollop of hummus or guacamole on top.
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High-Protein Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowl for New Year Reset
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Healthy Weight Management
- Method: Grilling or Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This High-Protein Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowl is a nutritious and delicious meal perfect for a New Year reset. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s designed to keep you full and energized.
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup spinach
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
2. In a pot, combine quinoa and water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. While quinoa cooks, season chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill or pan-sear chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
5. Once quinoa is done, fluff with a fork and set aside.
6. Slice the cooked chicken and assemble the bowl with quinoa, chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, spinach, and feta cheese.
Notes
This bowl can be customized with your favorite vegetables or dressings.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 70mg