Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? Introducing the "Healthy Chicken Salsa Verde Quinoa Bowl" – a vibrant Mexican-inspired meal that combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa, tender shredded chicken, and zesty salsa verde. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week, this bowl is a fiesta of flavors that will leave you craving more! With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you can enjoy a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a bowl of happiness!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- While quinoa is cooking, prepare the chicken. If not already cooked, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill, bake, or pan-sear until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let cool slightly, then shred using two forks.
- Drain and rinse black beans, and if using frozen corn, thaw and drain excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, salsa verde, black beans, and corn. Gently mix to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Dice the avocado into small, uniform cubes and chop fresh cilantro.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the quinoa mixture to add brightness and prevent avocado from browning.
- Divide the quinoa mixture evenly among four serving bowls. Top each bowl with diced avocado and freshly chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately while warm, or chill for a refreshing cold salad option. Can be stored in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can taste bitter.
- Flavorful Broth: Using chicken broth instead of water to cook the quinoa adds an extra layer of flavor, making your base even more delicious.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: If you’re cooking the chicken from scratch, ensure it’s seasoned well and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for optimal juiciness.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh avocado and cilantro for the best flavor and texture. Add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
- Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add other toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or cheese to suit your taste preferences.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.
- Serve Warm or Cold: Enjoy it warm right after preparation or chill it for a refreshing salad option on a hot day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg
