High Protein Chicken Meal Prep Bowls

Name: High Protein Chicken Meal Prep Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups cooked quinoa; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Fresh Inspirations

I love creating meal prep options that not only taste amazing but are also packed with protein to fuel my busy days. These High Protein Chicken Meal Prep Bowls are a complete game-changer for my weekly routine. The tender chicken paired with vibrant veggies and whole grains makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Plus, they are super easy to prepare in advance! I can simply grab a bowl and go, which makes healthy eating during the week hassle-free.

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-02-10T17:59:36.059Z

When I first experimented with meal prepping, I was amazed by how much it transformed my eating habits. Making these High Protein Chicken Meal Prep Bowls allowed me to ensure I always had a balanced meal ready to go. The combination of chicken, quinoa, and assorted vegetables not only tastes delicious but keeps me energized throughout the day.

One of my favorite tips is to marinate the chicken overnight using Greek yogurt and spices. This simple step infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it incredibly moist during cooking. It’s all about the layers of flavor and convenience!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with protein to keep you full and energized
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies and grains
Perfect for busy individuals and families looking for healthy meals

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is crucial for infusing flavor and keeping the chicken tender. Using Greek yogurt not only adds tang but also helps in moisture retention, making the chicken juicy after cooking. Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes is important, but for the best results, I recommend marinating it overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeper, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

When mixing the marinade, ensure all ingredients are well-combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors across the chicken. For a little extra kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or lemon juice; both work wonderfully to elevate the taste. If you're short on time, a quick 30-minute soak is still effective, but remember that longer marination yields the most flavorful results.

Vegetable Variations

The sautéed vegetables in this recipe are highly customizable, allowing you to incorporate your favorite seasonal produce. For instance, zucchini and asparagus can make excellent additions, adding freshness and crunch. When sautéing, remember to cook the broccoli and bell peppers until they're just tender yet still vibrant. Aim for a bright green color on the broccoli to signal doneness while preserving nutrients.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different spices while cooking the vegetables. A sprinkle of cumin or Italian seasoning can complement the overall dish beautifully. Just remember to add delicate ingredients like cherry tomatoes near the end of cooking to preserve their shape and sweetness. This will ensure each bite of your meal prep bowl bursts with flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your meal prep bowls:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups cooked quinoa
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you are set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your High Protein Chicken Meal Prep Bowls:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible.

Cook the Quinoa

While the chicken is marinating, rinse the quinoa. Cook it according to package instructions, typically about 15 minutes, until fluffy.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli and red bell pepper, sautéing for 5–7 minutes until tender. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, cook the marinated chicken over medium heat until no longer pink, about 6–7 minutes per side. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Assemble the Bowls

In meal prep containers, divide the cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and sliced chicken. Top each bowl with fresh avocado slices.

These bowls can be stored in the fridge for up to four days, making them a perfect meal prep option!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap the vegetables based on your preferences. You can also add different spices to the marination for varied flavors.

Storing and Reheating

These meal prep bowls are designed for convenience. After assembling your bowls, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. For the best texture, I suggest keeping the avocado separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent browning. If you're looking to prep ahead further, you can freeze portions without the avocado; they’ll hold well in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a bowl, simply remove it from the fridge and reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. You can also make a quick reheat mix in a skillet over medium heat if you prefer a little crispiness. Just be careful not to overheat the chicken to keep it from becoming dry.

Building Balanced Bowls

Each High Protein Chicken Meal Prep Bowl is a balanced meal, but if you're looking to enhance nutritional value or adjust macronutrient ratios, consider adding more greens or legumes. Adding chickpeas or lentils can increase fiber and protein content while enhancing satiety. Additionally, swapping quinoa for brown rice or farro provides various textures and flavors in your meal.

Finally, don’t forget to play with sauces to personalize your bowls! A light drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors significantly. Experimenting with different dressings each week keeps your meals exciting and gives you variety in flavor without altering the fundamental nutritious base of these bowls.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these meal prep bowls?

Yes, you can freeze the bowls without the avocado. Add fresh avocado when reheating.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

Brown rice or farro are great alternatives if you're looking for a different grain.

→ How long can I store these bowls in the fridge?

These meal prep bowls are best consumed within four days when stored in the fridge.

→ Can I use any other protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Turkey, tofu, or chickpeas can also be used as excellent protein options.