High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl

Name: High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen

I love creating meals that not only taste great but also fuel my body, and this High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl is one of my go-to recipes. Packed with lean chicken, colorful vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that keeps me energized. Whether I'm cooking for myself or hosting friends, I appreciate how this bowl comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With a perfect balance of protein and nutrients, it has become a staple in my meal prep routine.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:55:15.391Z

When I first whipped up this High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl, I was amazed at how easy it was to assemble such a nutritious and hearty meal. The combination of grilled chicken, quinoa, and fresh veggies gives me a wonderful mix of flavors and textures. Each bite is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it an excellent option post-workout.

One tip I’ve discovered is to marinate the chicken in advance, as it elevates the dish’s flavor profile. Using ingredients like lime juice and garlic really enhances the chicken, bringing a vibrant freshness that complements the hearty quinoa base. I always make extra to enjoy for lunch the next day!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
High in protein to fuel your workouts
Colorful vegetables for a nutrient-packed dish
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

Maximizing Flavor with Marinades

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step to infuse it with flavor and tenderness. The combination of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper not only enhances the taste but also helps to lock in moisture during cooking. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, but for an even deeper flavor, consider increasing the marination time to 30 minutes or more. This can make a noticeable difference, especially if you’re using fresh herbs or spices.

For a twist on the marinade, feel free to experiment with ingredients like lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. These can add a brightness or sweetness that complements the chicken nicely. If you are preparing this meal ahead of time, marinating the chicken early in the day allows the flavors to develop further while you go about your day.

Cooking Quinoa to Perfection

Cooking quinoa seems straightforward, but attention to detail can elevate its texture. Rinsing the quinoa before cooking is essential as it removes the natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. Once you achieve the right ratio of quinoa to chicken broth—usually 1 cup of quinoa to 2 cups of broth—the key is to bring it to a boil and then reduce the heat immediately. Look for just a slight bubbling; too much heat can cause the grains to break apart.

When it's ready, the quinoa should be fluffy with each grain separate. To achieve this, once it's done cooking, fluff it gently with a fork rather than a spoon. This prevents it from becoming mushy. If you have leftovers, cooked quinoa stores well in the fridge for 3-5 days, making it a fantastic base for other dishes throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delicious High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your meal:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes or until fluffy.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the quinoa cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the bell pepper and zucchini and sauté until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer the quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and sliced chicken. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

Enjoy your nutritious and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to top your chicken bowl with avocado or your favorite dressing. You can also swap out vegetables based on the season or what you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl can be customized to suit various dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, consider swapping out the chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh, which also takes well to marinades. Likewise, if you want to boost nutritional value, adding legumes like black beans or chickpeas can introduce extra protein and fiber into your bowl.

Serving this bowl warm is delightful, but it can also be enjoyed cold. If you have extra chicken or veggies, try mixing them into salads or wraps for lunch the next day. I love drizzling a bit of tahini or a yogurt-based sauce over the top when serving for an added flavor dimension.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is a meal prep dream due to its storage capabilities. Once assembled, you can store the chicken bowl in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just be sure to keep the quinoa and vegetables separate from the chicken until you’re ready to enjoy to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing is also an option! If you prep a larger batch, let the chicken cool completely before freezing in individual portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to prevent drying out. This makes it easy to enjoy a nutritious meal whenever you're pressed for time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I meal prep this chicken bowl?

Absolutely! This bowl keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it great for meal prep.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use brown rice, couscous, or farro as a substitute for quinoa in this recipe.

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work perfectly! Just add them to the skillet straight from the freezer and cook until heated through.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure your quinoa is certified gluten-free.