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This High-Protein Chicken Quinoa Power Bowls recipe is a quick, easy, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a New Year reset. It’s packed with lean protein, wholesome carbs, and fresh veggies to keep you feeling full and energized. As a busy chef, I know how tough it can be to eat well when life gets hectic. That’s why I’ve designed this recipe to be a total time-saver – it comes together in just a few minutes, and you can even prep the components in advance for a grab-and-go meal. Say goodbye to boring salads and hello to a cozy, satisfying bowl that will have you feeling great all year long.

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Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Chicken Quinoa Power Bowls for a New Year Reset

This recipe is a total game-changer for busy people looking to reset their eating habits in the new year. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients to support your health and weight management goals. The combination of protein-rich chicken, fiber-rich quinoa, and a rainbow of fresh veggies will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Plus, the versatile nature of this dish means you can customize it to your taste and dietary needs. Whether you’re trying to lose weight, build muscle, or just eat a little healthier, these power bowls are a fantastic option for a quick, no-fuss meal. And with the option to prep the components in advance, you can have a stress-free, nutritious meal ready to go on even the busiest of weeknights. Get ready to ditch the takeout and embrace the cozy, comfort-food vibes of this delicious and wholesome recipe.

Ingredients (Single-Serve)

To make these High-Protein Chicken Quinoa Power Bowls, you’ll need a few simple, wholesome ingredients: boneless, skinless chicken breasts, quinoa, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a simple lemon-garlic dressing. The chicken provides a lean source of protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied, while the quinoa offers complex carbs, fiber, and a host of essential vitamins and minerals. The fresh veggies add a crunchy, flavorful element and plenty of additional nutrients. And the zesty dressing ties it all together for a delicious and nourishing meal.

4 oz (115g) – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup (90g) – Cooked quinoa
1 cup (30g) – Baby spinach
1/2 cup (100g) – Cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup (40g) – Diced cucumber
2 tbsp (20g) – Thinly sliced red onion

Ingredient Substitutions

Protein: Swap the chicken for baked tofu or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Grain: Use brown rice, farro, or bulgur in place of the quinoa.

How to Make High-Protein Chicken Quinoa Power Bowls for a New Year Reset

To get started, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Season the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper, then place them on the prepared baking sheet. Roast the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Once the chicken is done, let it cool slightly, then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 1: [Prep Work]

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the quinoa according to the package instructions. Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and set it aside.

Step 2: [Main Cooking Process]

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked quinoa, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Toss everything together until well mixed.

Step 3: [Final Steps/Assembly]

To make the lemon-garlic dressing, simply whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Pour the dressing over the chicken and quinoa mixture, and toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 4: [Finishing Touches]

If desired, you can top the power bowls with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Variations & Time-Saver Tips

Prep Ahead: Cook the quinoa and chicken ahead of time, then simply assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping on the weekend or having a stress-free, nutritious meal ready to go on busy weeknights.
Add-Ins: Toss in some fresh herbs, like chopped parsley or cilantro, or a sprinkle of your favorite spices, such as cumin or chili powder, for extra flavor and nutrition.
Switch Up the Dressing: Experiment with different dressings, like a creamy avocado-lime or a zesty balsamic vinaigrette.
Vegetarian/Vegan Swaps: For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for baked tofu or roasted chickpeas. For a vegan option, use a plant-based protein source and adjust the dressing to be vegan-friendly.

High-Protein Chicken Quinoa Power Bowls for a New Year Reset

Serving, Storage & Reheat

Serve with: A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts.

Storage: Store the cooked chicken, quinoa, and veggies separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Microwave Reheat: Reheat the chicken and quinoa before assembling the power bowl.

Make-Ahead: Cook the quinoa and chicken ahead of time for an even quicker meal.

Nutrition Info

This High-Protein Chicken Quinoa Power Bowls recipe is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with lean protein, complex carbs, and a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. Each serving contains approximately 400 calories, 40 grams of protein, 40 grams of carbs, and 12 grams of healthy fats. The combination of chicken, quinoa, and fresh veggies provides a well-balanced, nutrient-dense meal that will keep you feeling full and energized.

Serving Size: 1 power bowl
Calories: 400 kcal
Protein: 40 g
Carbs: 40 g
Fat: 12 g
Sodium: 400 mg

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! One of the best things about this dish is that you can prep the components in advance for an even quicker meal. Cook the quinoa and chicken ahead of time, then simply assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping on the weekend or having a stress-free, nutritious meal ready to go on busy weeknights.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this High-Protein Chicken Quinoa Power Bowls recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it uses quinoa as the grain base. Quinoa is a gluten-free pseudocereal that is packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply swap out the chicken for baked tofu or roasted chickpeas. For a vegan option, omit the chicken and use a plant-based protein source, such as roasted chickpeas or lentils. You can also adjust the dressing to be vegan-friendly by using a plant-based oil and omitting the honey (if using).

How long will the leftovers last?

The cooked chicken, quinoa, and veggies will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the chicken and quinoa, then assemble the power bowl and toss everything together with the dressing.

Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! While quinoa is a great option, you can easily substitute other whole grains, such as brown rice, farro, or bulgur, in this recipe. Simply cook the grain of your choice according to the package instructions and use it in place of the quinoa.

High-Protein Chicken Quinoa Power Bowls for a New Year Reset