High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl

Name: High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup quinoa or brown rice; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 avocado, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Kitchen Favorites

I love creating meals that are not only delicious but also nutritious, which is why this High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl has become a staple in my kitchen. Packed with tender grilled chicken, vibrant veggies, and a satisfying grain base, it keeps me fueled throughout the day. What's great is that it's easily customizable with whatever ingredients I have on hand, making it perfect for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a hearty bowl that delights the senses and nourishes the body.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:19:09.763Z

Creating this High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl has been a delightful journey for me in the kitchen. I experimented with a variety of grains and seasonings until I found the perfect balance that enhances every bite. The chicken is marinated with herbs and spices, giving it a flavorful punch that pairs wonderfully with the fresh vegetables and wholesome grains.

One tip I discovered is to let the chicken rest after grilling. This simple step ensures that the juices remain locked in, resulting in a succulent and tender meal. I also love the versatility of this recipe—you can switch out the veggies based on what’s in season!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
High protein content for muscle repair and energy.
Customizable with your favorite grains and vegetables.
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights.

Mastering the Chicken

The key to achieving tender and juicy grilled chicken breasts lies in the marination process. By allowing the chicken to sit in the marinade of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 10 minutes (or even up to 30 minutes if time allows), the flavors penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste. This brief marination also helps to keep the chicken moist during grilling, preventing dryness and ensuring each bite is flavorful.

When grilling, maintain a medium-high heat to achieve a nice char without overcooking the chicken. Ideally, you want the grill pan to be hot enough that the chicken sizzles when placed on it, typically around 375°F to 400°F. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. A meat thermometer is an invaluable tool here, allowing for accurate cooking without the risk of cutting into the chicken prematurely.

Selecting and Cooking the Vegetables

In this High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl, the vegetables add not only color but also a range of nutrients that balance the meal. Red bell peppers are packed with vitamin C and have a natural sweetness that complements the savory spices of the chicken. When sautéing, aim for a vibrant color and a tender yet crisp texture; about 5 minutes is usually perfect. If you prefer a bit of char, you can increase the heat slightly towards the end of cooking, just until the edges start to caramelize.

If broccoli isn't your favorite or isn't available, feel free to substitute with seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or asparagus. These alternatives can be cooked in the same way, and they will still bring a nice crunch to the bowl. A tip I often use is to add a splash of soy sauce to the sauté near the end for extra umami flavor without overwhelming the existing ingredients.

Customizing Your Bowl

While this recipe uses quinoa or brown rice as the base, you can easily switch it up with farro, barley, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative. Each grain offers a different texture and flavor profile, allowing you to customize the dish according to your dietary preferences and what you have on hand. If you choose to use cauliflower rice, simply sauté it for a few minutes until tender but not mushy, avoiding overcooking for the best result.

For added creaminess, incorporating a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of tahini can elevate the bowl even further. Season either addition with a pinch of salt and lemon juice to brighten the flavors. This is a great way to integrate healthy fats and probiotics into the meal while enhancing the overall flavor complexity without taking away from the main stars of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup quinoa or brown rice
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are prepped before cooking for a smooth experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl:

Prepare the Grains

Cook the quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, set aside and keep warm.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated with the marinade. Let them sit for about 10 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the diced red bell pepper and broccoli florets. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until they are tender yet crisp.

Assemble the Bowl

Slice the grilled chicken and place it atop a serving of quinoa or rice. Add the sautéed vegetables and avocado slices. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Serve your bowl warm and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute different proteins like tofu or shrimp to suit your dietary preferences. For added flavor, consider using a squeeze of lemon juice or your favorite sauce on top.

Make-Ahead Tips

This High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl is perfect for meal prep. You can grill extra chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This allows you to quickly assemble the bowls throughout the week, saving time on hectic evenings. Just reheat the chicken in a microwave or on the stove until warmed through, ensuring it remains juicy.

Cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure to cool them before refrigerating to prevent sogginess. If you’re prepping in bulk, consider freezing excess grains in individual portions; they can be easily reheated and will still maintain a pleasant texture.

Serving Suggestions

This bowl is highly versatile and can be adapted to various serving styles. Serve it in keeping with the bowl format, or place the ingredients on a large platter for a family-style meal where everyone can build their own bowls. This interactive element makes it fun for gatherings and engages everyone in the meal preparation process.

To complete the dish, consider offering a side like a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a refreshing cucumber salad. These sides will add a nice crunch and brightness that complements the flavors of the bowl. Don't forget to provide various garnishes, such as nuts or seeds, to add an extra layer of texture and nutrition.

Storing and Freezing

Leftover bowls can be stored in airtight containers for up to three days in the refrigerator. However, for optimal freshness, it’s best to store the components separately if possible, especially the avocado, which can brown quickly. Squeeze a little lemon juice over the cut avocado to slow the oxidation process and preserve its color and flavor.

If you have leftover grilled chicken, it freezes well too. Store it in portions, and when ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This method ensures that you can enjoy this nutritious meal even on your busiest days without having to start from scratch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of protein?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the chicken bowl?

Yes, you can freeze the components separately, but it's best to consume them fresh for optimal flavor.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta to enhance the taste!