Looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized? Dive into the vibrant world of Healthy Chicken Quinoa Beet Bowls! This colorful dish not only pleases the palate but also packs a powerful punch of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a wholesome meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for this delightful bowl of goodness!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Healthy
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup cooked beets, diced
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh greens for serving
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer 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 cooks, prepare chicken by seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon olive oil, about 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once chicken is cooked, let rest for 5 minutes, then shred using two forks.
- Dice pre-cooked beets into small, uniform cubes. If using fresh beets, roast or boil until tender before dicing.
- Toast chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Assemble bowls by first placing a base of cooked quinoa, then topping with shredded chicken, diced beets, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Sprinkle toasted walnuts over the bowl and drizzle with remaining olive oil.
- Garnish with fresh greens and add additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately while ingredients are still warm, enjoying the blend of textures and flavors.
Tips
- Rinse Your Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural bitter coating, ensuring a pleasant flavor in your dish.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: To ensure juicy chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let it rest before shredding for the best texture.
- Beet Preparation: If you prefer fresh beets, roasting them will enhance their sweetness. Wrap them in foil and roast at 400°F for about 45-60 minutes until tender.
- Toast Your Walnuts: Toasting walnuts not only enhances their flavor but also adds a delightful crunch to your bowls. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
- Layering is Key: When assembling your bowls, layer the ingredients starting with quinoa, then chicken, beets, and feta. This keeps the flavors distinct while allowing for a beautiful presentation.
- Customize Your Greens: Feel free to mix and match your greens! Spinach, arugula, or mixed greens can add a fresh touch and extra nutrients.
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve your bowls immediately while everything is warm, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 90mg
