Description
A hearty, 30-minute quinoa chicken bowl loaded with protein and fiber foods satisfying, bright, and perfect for balanced meals.
Ingredients
1 cup cooked quinoa (from 1/2 cup dry)
1 (6–8 oz) chicken breast, grilled and sliced
1/2 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed & drained
1 cup roasted broccoli florets
1/2 cup diced cucumber or red bell pepper
2 tbsp crumbled feta (optional)
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Cook quinoa in salted water; drain well and fluff.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic; grill or pan-sear 4–6 minutes per side, rest, then slice.
3. Toss broccoli with a little oil and salt; roast at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes until browned (or steam).
4. Whisk olive oil and lemon juice for a quick dressing.
5. Assemble bowls with quinoa, chicken, chickpeas, broccoli, and cucumber/pepper.
6. Drizzle dressing; add feta and parsley.
7. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon.
Notes
Story (about 100 words): Welcome to my kitchen: where burnt toast turns into a lesson, a dash of spice becomes a story, and every meal is a chance to make someone smile. Hi, I’m Natalie, raised in a small Midwestern town where potlucks and Sunday roasts felt like community rituals. I learned at my grandmother’s elbow—she could stir gravy with one hand and share wisdom with the other. Meals like this bowl remind me why I cook: simple, generous food that brings people together. Good food is for everyone, and every plate is a chance to share love, laughter, and tradition.
Make-ahead: Cook quinoa/veggies up to 4 days ahead; add fresh herbs and dressing at serving.
Swaps: Use salmon, turkey, tofu, or tempeh; try farro or brown rice; swap broccoli for zucchini or green beans.
Tip: Add avocado for creaminess or a spoon of hummus for extra fiber and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 65mg