High Protein Dinner Bowls

Name: High Protein Dinner Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups quinoa, rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup Greek yogurt (for serving); 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Elevate your dinner game with these delicious high protein dinner bowls that are perfect for a nutritious meal.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2025-12-24T16:57:40.286Z

These high protein dinner bowls are a fantastic way to pack in nutrients while enjoying a delicious meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, these bowls can be customized to your taste!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein to keep you full and satisfied
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables and grains
A perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite

      

Nutritional Benefits

These high protein dinner bowls are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Quinoa serves as a complete protein source, providing all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent base for your meal. Combined with chicken and black beans, you can achieve a protein-rich dinner that supports muscle growth and keeps you feeling full longer.

In addition to protein, this recipe includes a variety of vegetables, which contribute vital vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The colorful combination of red bell peppers, corn, and cherry tomatoes not only enhances the visual appeal of your dish but also boosts its nutritional profile. These veggies are loaded with antioxidants, promoting overall health and well-being.

Customizable for Your Taste

One of the best aspects of these dinner bowls is their versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite proteins, such as tofu or shrimp, and mix and match vegetables according to what’s in season or what you have on hand. This flexibility allows you to create a unique dish every time, catering to your preferences and dietary needs.

Additionally, you can adjust the level of spice or add different herbs to the dressing to create a flavor profile that excites your palate. Whether you prefer a zesty kick or a milder taste, these high protein dinner bowls can be tailored to suit any occasion, making them a staple in your meal prep rotation.

Meal Prep Made Easy

These high protein dinner bowls are perfect for meal prepping. You can cook a large batch of quinoa and chicken at the beginning of the week, allowing you to assemble individual bowls quickly throughout the week. Store the ingredients separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness, and simply combine them when ready to eat.

Moreover, these bowls reheating well, making them an ideal option for busy weeknights or lunch at the office. Just pop them in the microwave for a few minutes, and you’ll have a nutritious meal ready to go, reducing the temptation to opt for less healthy fast food options.

Ingredients

For the Base

2 cups quinoa, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth

For the Protein

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup Greek yogurt (for serving)

For the Vegetables

1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients!

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

Bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a pot. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy. Set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and cook the diced chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the quinoa and chicken are cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the red bell pepper, slice the avocado, and halve the cherry tomatoes.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Bowls

In each bowl, layer the quinoa, chicken, black beans, corn, and vegetables. Drizzle with the dressing and top with a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Enjoy your delicious high protein dinner bowls!

Serving Suggestions

For an added crunch, consider topping your high protein dinner bowls with some toasted nuts or seeds, such as pumpkin seeds or almonds. These not only enhance the texture but also provide healthy fats that can improve heart health. Alternatively, you could sprinkle some feta cheese for a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Pair these bowls with a refreshing side salad or some roasted vegetables to create a complete and satisfying meal. The combination of warm and cold elements can elevate your dining experience, making it more enjoyable and visually appealing.

Storage Tips

When storing leftovers, it's best to keep the dressing separate to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy. Use small containers to portion out the dressing and store it in the refrigerator. The bowls themselves can be kept in airtight containers for up to four days, ensuring you have delicious meals ready to go.

If you're looking to freeze the components, quinoa and chicken freeze well, while the vegetables can be blanched before freezing to maintain their vibrant colors and textures. This way, you can enjoy your high protein dinner bowls even on the busiest of days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or any protein of your choice.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the chicken and add more beans or tofu for protein.

→ Can I meal prep these bowls?

Yes! These bowls store well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.

→ What can I use instead of quinoa?

You can substitute quinoa with brown rice, farro, or any grain you prefer.