Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl

Name: Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup basil pesto; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups spinach leaves; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love creating meals that are not only delicious but also packed with protein. This Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl is one of my favorites because it combines juicy grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and a flavorful pesto that ties everything together. I enjoy how easy it is to customize based on what I have on hand, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. It’s a complete meal that leaves me feeling satisfied and energized, ensuring I stay on track with my fitness goals.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:13:27.322Z

When I first tried making a high-protein bowl, I didn't expect it to become a staple in my meal prep. I stumbled upon the idea when looking for ways to make my lunches more filling and nutritious. The balance of grilled chicken and vegetables mixed with zesty pesto worked perfectly, creating a vibrant bowl that was both satisfying and healthy.

Over time, I've learned that using homemade pesto elevates the flavors significantly. It’s fresher and can be adjusted to suit my taste preferences. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving brings everything together beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for meal prep.
Packed with nutrients, keeping you full and energized.
Customizable with your favorite veggies and toppings.

Perfectly Grilled Chicken

For the best flavor in this Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl, ensuring the chicken is seasoned adequately is key. Use a generous amount of salt and fresh cracked pepper to enhance the natural taste of the chicken. Consider marinating the chicken breasts in the basil pesto for at least 30 minutes before grilling to infuse them with incredible flavors. This extra step not only enhances the chicken but also complements the dish beautifully.

When grilling, keep an eye on the chicken’s internal temperature. It’s important to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve this without overcooking. Additionally, if you do not have a grill, you can easily cook the chicken in a pan over medium-high heat, ensuring a golden sear that adds texture to each bite.

Flavorful Quinoa Base

Quinoa is not just a filling base; it also adds a nutty flavor and is packed with protein itself, making this dish a nutritional powerhouse. For the best results, rinse the quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove its natural coating, saponin, which can taste bitter. This small step significantly enhances the overall flavor of your bowl.

To add even more taste, consider cooking the quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water. This imparts an extra layer of flavor that complements the pesto and other ingredients. After cooking, you can stir in a touch of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, making the quinoa even more delightful and refreshing.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best aspects of this Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the spinach for other leafy greens like arugula or kale, which can add a peppery bite to your dish. You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or asparagus, which can be grilled or roasted alongside your chicken for added flavor and nutrients.

If you're looking to make the bowl vegetarian, consider substituting the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas. Both options will provide a satisfying texture and protein content. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of pesto—such as sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto—to give your meal a new twist each time you prepare it.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh and flavorful ingredients for your Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup basil pesto
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups spinach leaves
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have available!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a nutritious bowl that you will love.

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and grill them over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, add a base of quinoa, followed by spinach, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers. Top with sliced grilled chicken and drizzle generously with basil pesto.

Enjoy your nourishing and protein-packed meal!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider topping with nuts or seeds. If you'd like a little spice, add some red pepper flakes to the pesto.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This dish is ideal for meal prepping, and it stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. To ensure optimal freshness, store the components separately. Keep the quinoa, vegetables, and pesto chicken in separate containers. When you're ready to eat, simply heat the chicken and quinoa in the microwave until warm and then assemble your bowl again for a fresh taste.

If you want to freeze portions of this meal, it's best to freeze the cooked chicken and quinoa together. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to airtight freezer bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to revive the texture.

Serving Suggestions

When serving the Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl, consider garnishing it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat. Pair it with a light salad or some whole grain bread to round out your meal. You can also drizzle additional balsamic glaze over the top for a tangy contrast that elevates the dish.

For a family-style presentation, feel free to assemble the bowl as a platter. Arrange the quinoa, vegetables, and sliced chicken beautifully, allowing everyone to serve themselves. This can make dinner feel more communal and enjoyable, inviting everyone to customize their portions according to their preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works perfectly in this recipe if you're short on time.

→ How can I make this vegan?

You can substitute grilled chicken with roasted chickpeas or tofu and use a vegan pesto.

→ Can I prepare this bowl in advance?

Yes, you can meal prep this bowl! Just store the components separately to keep everything fresh.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, like zucchini, asparagus, or avocado.