Quinoa Chicken Meal Prep Bowls
Quick and easy quinoa chicken bowls packed with healthy veggies and a zingy lemon-herb dressing. Perfect for make-ahead lunches and time-saving weekly planning.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups quinoa white or tri-color
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil divided (use extra-virgin for flavor)
- 2 lemons zested and juiced (choose firm, bright yellow lemons)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh, finely chopped)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 large red bell pepper diced (sub yellow or orange for sweetness)
- 1 medium cucumber seeded and chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (look for firm, glossy skins)
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced (soak in cold water for mildness)
- 2 cups baby spinach or mixed greens (optional for extra bulk)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (omit or swap for vegan feta)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Rinse quinoa under cold water and drain. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with water and salt. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer until fluffy. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Place marinated chicken on the baking sheet. Roast until fully cooked. Rest, then slice into strips.
- Toss bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and lemon juice in a bowl.
- Divide cooked quinoa among containers. Top with chicken, veggies, and spinach. Sprinkle with feta and fresh herbs. Drizzle with lemon-herb dressing.
- Cover and chill in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Notes
Pat chicken dry before marinating for better spice adherence. Toast quinoa in a dry skillet for extra flavor. Add nuts or pumpkin seeds for crunch before serving.
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