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Healthy High-Protein Loaded Chicken Bowl Meal Prep Easy 5-Step Recipe

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A nutritious, filling, and easy-to-pack chicken bowl loaded with protein and wholesome ingredients, perfect for busy schedules and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
  • 3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1 avocado sliced, chopped nuts or seeds (pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water until water runs clear. Combine with 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  2. Pat dry 1 lb chicken breasts. In a bowl, mix 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken evenly. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
  3. Halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, dice 1 medium cucumber, shred 1/2 cup carrots, and chop 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro. Toss gently in a large mixing bowl.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  5. Divide quinoa evenly among meal prep containers or plates. Top with sliced chicken and mixed veggies. Drizzle with yogurt dressing. Add optional toppings like feta, avocado slices, or nuts if desired.

Notes

Marinate chicken for 30 minutes before cooking for extra tenderness. Keep dressing separate if prepping meals for more than two days to avoid soggy bowls. Fluff quinoa well after cooking to avoid mushiness. Use broth instead of water for more flavor. Rest chicken after cooking to keep it juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: high-protein, chicken bowl, meal prep, healthy, quinoa, easy recipe, gluten-free, dairy-free option