Are you ready to ignite your taste buds with a burst of flavor? The Spicy Chicken Nourish Bowl is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that combines succulent chicken, nutrient-packed quinoa, and vibrant greens, all drizzled with a touch of spice! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you'll be savoring every bite in no time. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a wholesome, delicious bowl that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 avocado
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve to remove any bitterness. This step is important for enhancing the flavor of the quinoa.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices for maximum flavor.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown crust. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- In the same skillet, add the spinach and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until wilted. This will enhance the flavor of the spinach and make it tender.
- To assemble the nourish bowls, divide the cooked quinoa evenly between two bowls. Top each bowl with the sliced chicken, sautéed spinach, and half an avocado, sliced. You can also add additional toppings if desired, such as cherry tomatoes or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra spice.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Spicy Chicken Nourish Bowl!
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Don’t skip rinsing the quinoa! This crucial step removes the natural coating called saponin, which can give the quinoa a bitter taste. Rinse it well under cold water before cooking.
- Perfectly Seasoned Chicken: For maximum flavor, let the seasoned chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe avocados will enhance the flavor and nutrition of your bowl. Opt for organic produce if possible for the best taste.
- Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add your favorite toppings! Cherry tomatoes, sliced radishes, or a sprinkle of feta cheese can elevate your nourish bowl to the next level.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Make a larger batch of quinoa and chicken to enjoy throughout the week. Just store in airtight containers in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
