Chicken & Quinoa Protein Bowl with Tahini Maple Dressing
When you need a lunch that’s filling, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, this Chicken & Quinoa Protein Bowl delivers. It’s the kind of meal that keeps you energized through the afternoon without the mid-day slump. It works just as well for meal prep as it does for a quick dinner.
This bowl combines lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats in a way that supports metabolism, stabilizes blood sugar, and fuels busy days. The mix of savory chicken, sweet grapes, and creamy tahini dressing makes every bite satisfying.
The Power of a Balanced Bowl
A great power bowl starts with balance, and this one checks every box.
Protein:
Chicken breast provides lean, high-quality protein that supports muscle strength and helps you stay full longer.
Complex Carbs:
Quinoa is a gluten-free grain that contains fiber and all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete plant-based protein. It provides steady energy and helps keep blood sugar levels stable throughout the day.
Healthy Fats:
The tahini and olive oil in the dressing offer heart-healthy fats that help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. These fats also make the meal more satisfying so you feel full and fueled, not sluggish.
Fiber and Phytonutrients:
Butternut squash, red onion, and arugula add color, texture, and antioxidants that support gut health and reduce inflammation. Red grapes bring natural sweetness and a boost of polyphenols that benefit heart and brain health.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This bowl is full of flavor, texture, and nutrients that work together to create a satisfying, balanced meal. It’s high in protein, rich in fiber, and packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like olive oil, tahini, and colorful produce.
It’s also naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone looking for a meal that supports energy, digestion, and overall wellness.
Meal Prep Made Easy
This recipe is designed for flexibility and convenience. You can roast the butternut squash and cook the quinoa in advance, since both store well in the fridge for up to four days. The chicken can be grilled, baked, or pulled from a rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
Keep the components separate until you’re ready to eat, then toss with the dressing for a fresh, crisp texture.
Pro tip: Double the dressing. It’s delicious over roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or as a dip for raw veggies throughout the week.
Chicken & Quinoa Protein Bowl
Ingredients
2 cups cooked quinoa
4 cups cooked chicken breast (diced or shredded)
2 cups cubed butternut squash
½ cup red onion, sliced
8 cups arugula
1 cup red grapes, halved
3 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
Tahini Maple Dressing
¼ cup tahini
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1 garlic clove, minced
1½ cups water (to thin)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss butternut squash and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, until tender.
In a large bowl, layer arugula, quinoa, chicken, roasted vegetables, and grapes.
Whisk together dressing ingredients until smooth, adding water as needed for the desired consistency.
Drizzle dressing over bowls and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds. Serve immediately or store components separately for meal prep.
Simple, Nourishing, and Satisfying
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated. This Chicken & Quinoa Protein Bowl is proof that balanced meals can be nourishing, flavorful, and easy to make.
Whether you’re prepping lunches for the week or looking for a wholesome dinner option, this bowl has everything you need to stay fueled and satisfied.
Ready for more healthy, realistic meal ideas?
Explore our collection of recipes and nutrition tips designed to help you eat well without overcomplicating things. You can find more inspiration on our Freebies page!