Looking for a deliciously nutritious meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying? Say hello to the Chicken Ranch Kale Quinoa Bowls! Packed with protein, vibrant greens, and the creamy goodness of ranch dressing, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of flavor. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a wholesome dinner that delights the whole family. Curious how to create this culinary masterpiece? Keep reading for the step-by-step guide and tips that will elevate your cooking game!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- While quinoa is cooking, prepare the chicken by either poaching, grilling, or baking the chicken breast until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash kale and remove stems, then chop into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside.
- When quinoa is finished, fluff with a fork and let rest for 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped kale, shredded chicken, and cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the mixture and gently toss to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Divide the mixture evenly into four serving bowls.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each bowl.
- Serve immediately while warm, or refrigerate for a cold salad-style meal.
Tips
- Rinse Your Quinoa: Don’t skip rinsing the quinoa! This step removes the saponins, which can give the grains a bitter taste. A thorough rinse ensures a nutty, pleasant flavor.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: For the juiciest chicken, consider poaching it in seasoned water or broth. This method keeps the meat moist and tender, making it easier to shred.
- Kale Prep: If you're not a fan of tough kale stems, make sure to remove them before chopping. This will give you a more tender bite in your bowls.
- Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out the ranch dressing for a different dressing to suit your taste. Avocado, bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of nuts can add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls are perfect for meal prep! Make a batch on the weekend and store them in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Serve Warm or Cold: Enjoy them warm right after preparation or refrigerate for a refreshing cold salad option. They taste great both ways!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg
