Go Back

Healthy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bowls - A Simple, Balanced Meal

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 1 to 1.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
  • Quinoa: 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
  • Broccoli: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
  • Olive oil: 2 to 3 tablespoons, divided
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Lemon: Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • Low-sodium chicken broth or water: 2 cups for cooking quinoa
  • Spices for chicken: 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper: To taste
  • Optional add-ins: Red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon cumin, chopped parsley, sliced almonds, or a sprinkle of feta
  • Optional sauce boost: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or 1 teaspoon honey for a sweeter note

Method
 

  1. Cook the quinoa: Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. Add to a saucepan with 2 cups broth (or water) and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from heat and rest, covered, 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  2. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry. In a bowl, toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  3. Sear the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add chicken in a single layer. Cook 4–6 minutes, stirring once or twice, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  4. Cook the broccoli: In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil if needed. Add broccoli florets with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring, until bright green and crisp-tender. If you prefer softer broccoli, splash in 2 tablespoons water and cover for 1–2 minutes to steam.
  5. Make the lemon-garlic drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. For a tangy kick, whisk in Dijon. For a mellow sweetness, add honey.
  6. Combine: Return chicken to the skillet with broccoli. Pour in half the lemon-garlic drizzle and toss over low heat for 30–60 seconds to coat. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon.
  7. Assemble bowls: Divide quinoa among bowls. Top with chicken and broccoli. Spoon over the remaining drizzle. Finish with chopped parsley, sliced almonds, or feta if using.