Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowls with Lemonherb Chicken

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever get stuck wondering how to eat healthy during the week? This Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl with Lemon Herb Chicken recipe is your ticket! It is a top tier protein food prep idea.

Seriously, the flavor is incredible.

Brief Overview

This recipe takes inspiration from the Mediterranean diet meal prep traditions. It is super easy to make, and only takes around 45 minutes.

It makes 4 generous bowls, perfect for a week of lunches or dinners. It is perfect for high protein meal prep .

Main Benefits

Packing about 45 grams of protein , these bowls are great for keeping you full and energized. These power bowls are ideal for meal prep for weight loss or just a wholesome protein packed lunch .

What makes them special? The combination of zesty lemon herb chicken, fluffy quinoa, and fresh veggies!

Why I'm Obsessed with These Mediterranean Bowls

Honestly, these quinoa power bowls have been a lifesaver. I am always looking for healthy meal prep recipes that are quick, tasty and pack a punch.

The first time I made it, I was blown away by how much flavor was packed into one bowl! I love that it ticks all the boxes for a high protein lunch ideas .

It is also surprisingly versatile. You can easily swap out the veggies or cheese based on what you have on hand or what you are craving.

The Star of the Show: Lemon Herb Chicken

This lemon herb chicken recipe is so simple, yet so delicious. The marinade is the key to making the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Don't skip the marinating time! I learned that the hard way. The first time I made it, I was in a rush and only marinated the chicken for like, 15 minutes.

It was still good, but it wasn't amazing . Now, I always marinate it for at least 30 minutes, sometimes even longer.

It makes all the difference. It is really a easy protein meal prep .

Ingredients & Equipment For Protein Food Prep Greatness

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need. This Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl recipe is all about fresh, flavorful ingredients. Honestly, it's one of my fave healthy meal prep recipes .

Main Ingredients: Your Protein Packed Lunch Base

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless breasts. Look for chicken that's pink and firm.
• Quinoa: 1 cup (180g) . Give it a good rinse before cooking!
• Veggie Broth: 2 cups (475ml) , low sodium.
• Olive Oil: You’ll need about 6 tablespoons (90ml) total.

Seasoning Notes: Flavour Central

For the chicken, we’re using oregano, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. It's a classic combo that just works! Don't have fresh garlic? A teaspoon of garlic powder will do in a pinch.

The lemon vinaigrette is key . Fresh lemon juice is a must! The vinaigrette uses olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

This lemon herb chicken recipe will soon be a staple.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You'll need a large bowl for marinating. A medium saucepan with a lid for the quinoa is also essential. A grill pan (or your BBQ if you're feeling fancy!).

Measuring cups and spoons are also needed. Don't forget your knife and cutting board. Oh, and protein meal prep bowls ! Seriously, that’s about it.

No need for fancy gadgets.

This easy protein meal prep is so versatile. This makes it a high protein meal prep win.

If you want high protein lunch ideas , the Mediterranean quinoa bowls are really easy, healthy, and are good for meal prep for weight loss diets.

This protein food prep is quick to prepare and tastes amazing! It's perfect for a Mediterranean diet meal prep . These quinoa power bowls are a delightful addition to any protein food prep diet.

Cooking Method: Grilling Goodness into Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowls

Honestly, sometimes the hardest part about eating healthy is just the planning. That's why I love these Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowls.

They're perfect for protein food prep and will make your week so much easier. Think of it as a protein meal prep bowls that actually taste amazing.

Let's get grilling, shall we?

Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission

First, let's get organized. This is the essential mise en place . Chop all your veggies, measure out your spices, and cube your chicken.

It seems like a chore, but this saves so much time later. Honestly, it is a fantastic healthy meal prep recipes , this dish comes together so fast when you're organized.

Make sure you wash all of your vegetables properly, using tap water.

Next, whisk together your marinade. This is crucial. The longer the chicken sits in it, the more flavour you'll get.

Aim for at least 30 minutes , but you can leave it for up to 4 hours in the fridge.

Safety first! Always wash your hands after handling raw chicken.

step-by-step Grilling Process

1. Marinate those chicken cubes in the lemon herb mixture.
2. Cook quinoa as you would rice: bring vegetable broth to boil, simmer covered for 15 minutes .
3. Preheat your grill to medium high heat. That means 375° F ( 190° C) .
4. Grill chicken for 5- 7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature hits 165° F ( 74° C) . Nobody wants salmonella!
5. Whisk together your lemon vinaigrette it's so easy!
6. Assemble your bowls. Layer quinoa, chicken, veggies, feta, and olives.
7. Drizzle with vinaigrette.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley, if you are feeling fancy.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Bowl Game

Want a shortcut? Buy pre-cooked quinoa. No shame in that game! Looking for amazing high protein lunch ideas ? Marinate your chicken the night before for maximum flavour.

This is a fantastic way to incorporate Mediterranean diet meal prep into your week. Be careful not to overcook your chicken.

Overcooked chicken is dry and sad. Grilling is great for meal prep for weight loss because it adds such nice flavour without a lot of extra fat.

Oh my gosh. Easy protein meal prep can be this fun!

Recipe Notes

Alright, so you're about to dive into these Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowls with Lemon Herb Chicken, yeah? Let’s get into some deets to make sure it's a smashing success.

Here are some things you should keep in mind.

Serving Suggestions

Plating is everything, darling! Pile your Mediterranean diet meal prep high in a bowl. Think vibrant colors. Maybe add a sprig of fresh parsley if you're feeling fancy.

For sides, pita bread or naan are lush with this! Grab some Tzatziki sauce to boot, you know what I'm saying? Pairs beautifully with a glass of ice tea or a chilled Pinot Grigio.

This protein food prep is restaurant worthy, honestly.

Storage Tips

These bowls are perfect for healthy meal prep recipes ! Once assembled, they'll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Just make sure to use airtight containers. The vinaigrette is better stored separately. This stops everything from getting soggy. Freezing cooked chicken is an option.

Though the texture might be slightly different when defrosted. To reheat, microwave until heated through ( 165° F / 74° C internal temperature, folks!).

Make sure to check this important number on a thermometer!.

Variations

Want to shake things up? Try halloumi for a vegetarian kick. Chickpeas work well too. Looking for something spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

To keep it grain free substitute the quinoa with cauliflower rice for a lower carb option. These quinoa power bowls are super versatile, you see? Turkey is a lush alternative to chicken, and goat cheese is super for an alternative to Feta.

Nutrition Basics

Okay, let's talk numbers. Each bowl rocks around 550 calories, give or take. You're looking at roughly 45g of protein, 25g of fat, and 40g of carbs.

Plus, a hefty 8g of fiber! These high protein lunch ideas are amazing if you’re meal prep for weight loss .

These are the best protein packed lunch you can get. It's a yummy easy protein meal prep that fuels you properly.

The best high protein meal prep I've ever had.

So there you have it! With this lemon herb chicken recipe and these tips, you're set for some amazing protein meal prep bowls .

Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Go on, give it a bash!