High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl

Name: High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked quinoa; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach; Optional toppings: avocado, feta cheese, or nuts

Highlighted under: Healthy Home Plates

I love coming up with healthy yet satisfying meals that fuel my workouts and taste amazing. This High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl is a favorite in my house! Packed with lean chicken, vibrant veggies, and a flavorful dressing, it's not only easy to prepare but also perfect for meal prep. Whether I'm powering through a busy week or enjoying a relaxing weekend dinner, this bowl gives me the energy I need while keeping my taste buds happy. You can customize it to your liking, making it a versatile go-to for any night of the week.

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:13:22.341Z

When I first created this chicken bowl, I was on a mission to combine nutrition with flavor. I experimented with different marinated chicken recipes and discovered that a simple blend of garlic, lemon, and herbs really brings the chicken to life. After a quick sear in a hot pan, it stays juicy and tender, which makes all the difference in this satisfying dish.

To add texture and nutrients, I included a colorful array of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and fresh spinach. Not only do they taste great, but they also make the bowl visually appealing. I always encourage people to use what’s in season or what they have on hand to make it their own!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
High protein content to fuel your workouts
Rich flavors from fresh herbs and spices
Customizable with your favorite vegetables

Perfecting the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step for flavor infusion. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano creates a tender and juicy result. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes if time allows. This extra time allows the flavors to penetrate more deeply. If you're short on time, even a quick 15-minute soak will help; just ensure the chicken is evenly coated for optimal taste.

Cooking the chicken on medium heat is essential to achieve that golden brown exterior without drying it out. Keep an eye on it and turn the pieces occasionally for uniform cooking. Since chicken breast can quickly become rubbery when overcooked, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness – aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Vegetable Variations

While bell peppers and zucchini are excellent choices, feel free to mix in or replace them with seasonal vegetables like asparagus or sweet potatoes for variety. Just remember that denser vegetables may require a longer sautéing time; for example, sweet potatoes should be pre-cooked or roasted beforehand to ensure everything is tender by serving time.

When sautéing vegetables, don't overcrowd the pan. This allows them to brown properly, enhancing their natural sweetness. If necessary, sauté in batches to avoid steaming. If you prefer crunchier veggies, you can add those that cook quicker, like spinach, towards the end of cooking time so they retain more texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your High Protein Dinner Chicken Bowl:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked quinoa
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
2 cups fresh spinach
Optional toppings: avocado, feta cheese, or nuts

Make sure to wash and chop your vegetables before cooking for a smoother prep experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious chicken bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the bell pepper and zucchini. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they're tender. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.

Assemble Your Bowl

In a large bowl, layer cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and the cooked chicken. Top with your favorite toppings.

Enjoy your bowl warm, and feel free to store leftovers in the refrigerator for a quick meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider grilling the chicken instead of pan-searing. You can also substitute the protein with tofu or beans for a vegetarian option.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep

This chicken bowl is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and sauté the vegetables ahead of time, then store them separately in airtight containers for up to four days in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, just reheat everything in the microwave or skillet until warmed through. I often pack the quinoa and chicken together for a quick grab-and-go meal.

If you're looking to freeze portions, do so before adding any fresh ingredients or toppings like spinach or avocado. Store individual servings in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating; this ensures even warming and maintains texture.

Serving and Customization Tips

This bowl is incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit various dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu, ensuring you adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you want to lower the carb content, try replacing quinoa with cauliflower rice; just sauté it in the skillet for a couple of minutes to warm it through.

Don’t forget the optional toppings! A dollop of creamy avocado can enhance the richness, while feta cheese adds a salty tang that complements the dish beautifully. Nuts or seeds can provide necessary crunch and additional healthy fats. Play around with different combinations until you find your perfect version.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. The options are endless!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This chicken bowl is perfect for meal prep and can be made in advance for a quick and nutritious meal.