Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Bowl

Name: Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love creating simple yet flavorful meals, and my Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Bowl is a perfect example. It’s quick to make and packed with protein, making it a nutritious option for lunch or dinner. Each ingredient plays a role in building flavor, from the juicy grilled chicken to the vibrant veggies. I can't get enough of how the nutty quinoa complements the smoky chicken, creating a delightful harmony of tastes and textures that keeps me coming back for more. Perfectly balanced and oh-so-satisfying!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-13T11:31:30.162Z

When I first made this Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Bowl, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. Grilling the chicken adds a beautiful smoky flavor, and I learned that marinating it while preparing the rest of the ingredients really enhances the taste. The result is a juicy chicken that pairs perfectly with the nutty quinoa and fresh veggies.

Another tip I discovered is to let the quinoa sit covered after cooking. This way, it becomes fluffy as it finishes steaming, making the bowl even more delightful. It’s now a regular in my kitchen, showcasing how healthful meals can be both easy and delicious!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A healthy and filling option that's perfect for meal prep
Packed with protein and nutrients from both chicken and quinoa
A burst of flavors from the fresh vegetables and herbs

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Grilling

Grilling the chicken properly is crucial for achieving that juicy, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the quinoa. I recommend preheating your grill to medium-high, around 400°F (200°C), before placing the marinated chicken on it. This temperature allows for the perfect sear, resulting in those desirable grill marks. Make sure not to flip the chicken too often; letting it cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes per side locks in moisture and flavor, creating a deliciously tender chicken breast.

A meat thermometer can be a fantastic tool for ensuring your chicken is perfectly cooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before removing it from the grill. Remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling; this allows the juices to redistribute, so each slice remains moist and flavorful.

The Magic of Quinoa

Quinoa is not only a nutritious grain packed with protein, but it also absorbs flavors beautifully. Cooking it in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water infuses the quinoa with rich, savory notes. As you bring the broth to a boil, be sure to swirl the quinoa in for even cooking; this will help separate the grains and prevent them from becoming gummy. After simmering for 15 minutes, allow it to rest covered. The steam will finish cooking the quinoa and help it achieve that fluffy texture I always strive for.

If you're looking for a nutty flavor, consider toasting the quinoa in a dry skillet for a few minutes before boiling. This step enhances the natural earthiness of the grain and adds depth to the overall taste of the dish. Quinoa is also gluten-free, making this bowl an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious bowl:

For the Grilled Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Quinoa Bowl

1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

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

Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add quinoa, lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Heat a grill over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, fluff the quinoa with a fork. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and parsley. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and toss gently.

Serve

Divide the quinoa mixture into bowls and top with sliced grilled chicken. Enjoy!

Your Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Bowl is now ready to be served!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top before serving.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the vegetables in your quinoa bowl based on what you have on hand or what's in season. Roasted zucchini, sautéed kale, or even sweet corn could add a delightful twist. For added crunch, consider tossing in some toasted nuts or seeds such as almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds. This not only enhances the texture but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.

For a vegetarian version, swap out the grilled chicken for marinated and grilled tofu or tempeh. The marinating process will work the same way, and grilling will give a similar texture that complements the other fresh ingredients in the bowl.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Bowl is fantastic for meal prep! After cooking, store the quinoa and grilled chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the vegetables separate until you're ready to eat to maintain their freshness and texture. When you're ready for a quick lunch or dinner, simply reheat the chicken and quinoa in the microwave or a skillet over low heat, adding a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.

If you want to make the meal ahead of time, you can also freeze the grilled chicken. Cut it into slices once it has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat for a quick assembly of your bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice; just adjust the cooking time as it usually takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, grilled chicken can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

Feel free to mix in any seasonal vegetables you enjoy, such as spinach, corn, or kale!