High Protein Dinner Bowls

Name: High Protein Dinner Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups quinoa, cooked; 1 cup brown rice, cooked; 1 lb chicken breast, grilled and sliced; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

High protein dinner bowls are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a balanced meal.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2025-12-24T17:54:40.507Z

These high protein dinner bowls are perfect for anyone looking to increase their protein intake without sacrificing flavor. Loaded with wholesome ingredients, they're satisfying and can be customized to suit your taste.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein to keep you full and satisfied
Versatile ingredients that you can mix and match
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

      

Nutritional Benefits

High protein dinner bowls are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that promote overall health. The combination of quinoa and brown rice provides a complete protein source, rich in amino acids that are crucial for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, these grains are high in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

The inclusion of a variety of vegetables adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals to your meal. Bell peppers, for example, are high in vitamin C, while broccoli is loaded with antioxidants that support your immune system. This colorful mix ensures that each bite is not just satisfying but also incredibly nourishing.

Meal Prep Friendly

These high protein dinner bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts. You can easily prepare a large batch of the base, protein, and vegetables at the beginning of the week, allowing you to assemble quick meals on busy nights. Store the components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness, and simply combine when you're ready to eat.

This approach not only saves time but also allows for variety throughout the week. You can switch up the proteins or vegetables according to your preferences or seasonal availability, making it a versatile option for any palate.

Customizable Options

One of the best things about high protein dinner bowls is how customizable they are. Feel free to experiment with different proteins, such as tofu, shrimp, or even beef, depending on your dietary preferences. You can also add additional toppings like avocado, nuts, or seeds to enhance flavor and texture.

Moreover, the dressing can be adjusted to suit your taste. Try adding herbs like cilantro or parsley for freshness, or incorporate spices like cumin or paprika for a kick. This adaptability makes these bowls a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Ingredients

Base

2 cups quinoa, cooked
1 cup brown rice, cooked

Protein

1 lb chicken breast, grilled and sliced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed

Vegetables

1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your favorite ingredients to create your perfect bowl!

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa and brown rice. Mix well and set aside.

Cook the Protein

Grill the chicken breast until cooked through, then slice it. For a vegetarian option, use black beans and chickpeas instead.

Add Vegetables

Top the rice and quinoa mix with diced bell peppers, steamed broccoli, and cherry tomatoes.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the bowls.

Assemble and Serve

Layer the protein on top of the vegetables and serve immediately.

Enjoy your high protein dinner bowls as a healthy and satisfying meal!

Storage Tips

To maximize the freshness of your high protein dinner bowls, store each component in separate containers in the refrigerator. Cooked quinoa and brown rice can last up to a week when properly stored, while grilled chicken should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and safety.

If you’re preparing these bowls for meal prep, consider portioning them out into individual servings. This way, you can simply grab a bowl from the fridge and heat it up when hunger strikes, making healthy eating hassle-free.

Serving Suggestions

These high protein dinner bowls can be served hot or cold, making them incredibly versatile. For a warm meal, simply reheat the ingredients in a microwave or stovetop. If you prefer a refreshing cold bowl, allow the ingredients to cool before assembling and enjoy it as a nutritious salad.

Pair your dinner bowls with a side of whole-grain bread or a light soup for a more filling meal. You can also serve them with a glass of infused water or herbal tea to complement the flavors and enhance your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can use tofu or just the beans and chickpeas as your protein source.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, these bowls are great for meal prep! Just assemble and store in portioned containers.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add avocado, nuts, or seeds for extra flavor and crunch.