A hearty, balanced bowl packed with high-quality protein, vibrant vegetables, and satisfying whole grains. This Power Protein Bowl Deluxe is designed to fuel your day, whether you need a post-workout meal or a nourishing lunch that keeps you full and energized.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is customizable, nutrient-dense, and easy to prepare. It combines lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats in one bowl, making it ideal for meal prep or a quick, wholesome dinner. The flavors are bold yet balanced, and every component works together to create a filling meal without feeling heavy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the grain base
1 cup uncooked quinoa
2 cups water
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the protein
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 450 g total)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the vegetables
1 cup broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 medium zucchini, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the fresh toppings
1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 ripe avocado, sliced
1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the dressing
3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon tahini
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 small garlic clove, finely grated
2 tablespoons water
1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
While the quinoa cooks, prepare the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry and rub them with olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden on the outside. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Toss broccoli, bell pepper, and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread on a baking tray and roast for 15–20 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the bowls by dividing the quinoa between serving bowls. Top with sliced chicken, roasted vegetables, chickpeas, avocado slices, and cherry tomatoes.
Drizzle with the dressing and finish with chopped parsley before serving.
Store the components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the quinoa, chicken, and roasted vegetables in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add fresh toppings and dressing after reheating for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this bowl vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with grilled tofu, baked tempeh, or extra chickpeas for a plant-based protein option.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. This bowl is ideal for meal prep because the ingredients store well and reheat easily.
Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
Yes, brown rice, bulgur, or farro work well as substitutes with similar cooking methods.
How can I increase the protein content?
Add a boiled egg, extra chicken, or a spoon of hummus to boost the protein further.
Is the dressing adjustable?
You can thin the dressing with more water or lemon juice, or make it richer by adding more tahini.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of spicy sauce to the bowl.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Can I freeze this meal?
The cooked chicken, quinoa, and roasted vegetables can be frozen for up to 2 months. Fresh toppings should be added after thawing.
What vegetables can I substitute?
You can use cauliflower, carrots, green beans, or spinach depending on what you have available.
Can I serve this cold?
Yes, this bowl tastes great chilled, especially during warmer months.
Conclusion
The Power Protein Bowl Deluxe is a complete, nourishing meal that delivers flavor, balance, and flexibility in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for the week ahead or preparing a quick dinner, this recipe offers a satisfying way to fuel your body with wholesome ingredients and bold taste.
The Power Protein Bowl Deluxe is a nutrient-packed meal featuring quinoa, seasoned chicken, roasted vegetables, and fresh toppings with a creamy tahini-yogurt dressing. It’s ideal for meal prep, post-workout recovery, or a hearty lunch.
Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
Pat the chicken breasts dry and rub with olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Preheat oven to 200°C. Toss broccoli, bell pepper, and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking tray for 15–20 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, and salt until smooth.
Assemble bowls by dividing quinoa among 4 bowls. Top with sliced chicken, roasted vegetables, chickpeas, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
Drizzle with tahini-yogurt dressing and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Chill the dressing for 10 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
Roast extra vegetables for use in other meals throughout the week.
For vegetarian option, replace chicken with tofu or tempeh.
Customize with your favorite grains, proteins, or seasonal veggies.