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Creamy Avocado Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Name: Creamy Avocado Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed thoroughly; 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth; ½ teaspoon salt (for quinoa); ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for quinoa); 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for chicken); ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt (for chicken); ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for chicken); 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); ¼ red onion, thinly sliced; 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced; 1 red bell pepper, finely diced; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for bowl); 1 large ripe avocado, pitted and peeled (for dressing); ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream; ¼ cup olive oil (extra virgin, for dressing); 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 clove garlic, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder, for dressing); ½ teaspoon ground cumin (for dressing); ¼ teaspoon salt (for dressing); ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for dressing); Optional: 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin dressing); Optional: A pinch of cayenne pepper (for dressing)

If you’re looking for a dish that combines nutrition with incredible flavor, the Creamy Avocado Chicken Quinoa Bowl is a clear winner. Bursting with vibrant colors and textures, this wholesome meal provides a satisfying experience at every bite. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a bounty of fresh veggies all brought together with a creamy avocado dressing. You won’t just nourish your body; you’ll enjoy every delicious morsel in the process!

Why Make This Recipe

Loaded with protein and fiber, making it a heart-healthy choice.
Quick enough for a busy weeknight but fancy enough to impress guests.
The creamy avocado dressing ties everything together perfectly, enhancing the flavor of everything it touches.

The delightful combination of fresh ingredients and rich flavors makes this recipe a must-try for anyone craving a nutritious and visually appealing meal. Whether it’s for meal prep or a family dinner, this bowl will not disappoint.

Making Creamy Avocado Chicken Quinoa Bowl at Home

Creating your own Creamy Avocado Chicken Quinoa Bowl is easier than you might think. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have a satisfying, nutritious dish ready in no time. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own delicious bowl:

1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed thoroughly
2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
½ teaspoon salt (for quinoa)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (for quinoa)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder (for chicken)
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt (for chicken)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (for chicken)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
1 large cucumber, peeled and diced
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for bowl)
1 large ripe avocado, pitted and peeled (for dressing)
½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
¼ cup olive oil (extra virgin, for dressing)
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 clove garlic, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder, for dressing)
½ teaspoon ground cumin (for dressing)
¼ teaspoon salt (for dressing)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (for dressing)
Optional: 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin dressing)
Optional: A pinch of cayenne pepper (for dressing)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Avocado Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa

Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa thoroughly under cold water. Use a fine-mesh sieve to ensure all grit is washed away, and keep rinsing until the water runs clear. Next, in a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water or chicken broth. Add ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and let it simmer undisturbed for about 15 minutes. Afterward, remove the saucepan from the heat but keep it covered for another 5 to 10 minutes. Finally, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the quinoa is cooking, pat down 1 pound of chicken breasts with a paper towel until they are dry. In a bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Add your cubed chicken to the bowl and toss until well coated. You can let this marinate at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes or refrigerate it for up to 2 hours if you have the time.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Cover it loosely with foil and let it rest for another 5-10 minutes. After resting, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prep the Veggies

While the chicken cools, prep your vegetables. Begin by halving 1 cup of cherry tomatoes. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure to thaw 1 cup; if you’re using canned corn, just drain it. Rinse and drain 1 can of black beans. Thinly slice ¼ of a red onion, then peel and dice 1 large cucumber. Finely dice 1 red bell pepper and roughly chop ¼ cup of fresh cilantro. For the avocado, pit and peel it, then either cube or slice it, tossing it immediately with a squeeze of fresh lime juice to prevent browning.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

For the creamy avocado dressing, grab a blender or food processor. Add the pitted and peeled avocado along with ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. Include 1 minced clove of garlic, ½ teaspoon of ground cumin, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Blend until everything is smooth and creamy. If you find the dressing is too thick, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of water slowly until you reach your desired consistency. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings as necessary. If you’re feeling daring, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl

Now comes the fun part! Start with a generous portion of that fluffy quinoa—spoon it into individual bowls as a base. On one side of the bowl, artfully layer the sliced chicken. Around the bowl, arrange the halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, rinsed black beans, diced cucumber, finely diced red bell pepper, and thinly sliced red onion. Add the lime-tossed avocado pieces carefully. Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top, and just before serving, drizzle that delicious creamy dressing over all the components. Serve immediately and indulge in the vibrant flavors and textures!

Best Way to Store Creamy Avocado Chicken Quinoa Bowl

To keep your Creamy Avocado Chicken Quinoa Bowl fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Refrigerate for 3-4 days at 40°F to keep everything safe.
For optimal freshness, consume within 1-2 days if the avocado has been mixed in.
The quinoa, chicken, and veggies can be stored separately, allowing you to enjoy leftovers in various ways.
If you wish to store something for longer, consider freezing the quinoa and chicken for up to 2 months.
Keep the avocado dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain its creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Avocado Chicken Quinoa Bowl

This bowl is not only beautiful but versatile and can complement different occasions. Here are some ideas for how to elevate your bowl experience:

Pair it with a crisp side salad made with your favorite greens and a light vinaigrette.
Serve it alongside whole grain bread toasted with olive oil for a hearty meal.
For a bit of crunch, add some tortilla chips or crushed nuts as a topping.
It can also be made as a meal prep option, where you create several bowls at once, storing them in the refrigerator for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
For a bold flavor twist, top your bowl with pickled jalapeños or a sprinkle of feta cheese.

Tips to Make Creamy Avocado Chicken Quinoa Bowl Amazing

Flavorful Quinoa: Cook your quinoa in chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.
Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables for the best taste, especially when dealing with avocados.
Customize Your Bowl: Don’t hesitate to mix and match ingredients according to your preferences or whatever you have on hand.
Meal Prep Option: If cooking for the week, keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain its freshness.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to change up this recipe, consider the following:

Protein Swaps: Instead of chicken, you can use grilled shrimp or tofu to make the dish vegan-friendly.
Veggie Boost: Toss in additional seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
Dressing Alternatives: If you don’t have Greek yogurt, sour cream can work just as well, or replace it with tahini for a nutty flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the quinoa and chicken a day in advance, and mix the dressing right before serving.

Q: What if I prefer chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They will provide a juicier texture and can be cooked using the same methods.

Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: To amp up the spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Q: What’s the best way to ensure the avocado stays fresh?
A: Toss the avocado in lime juice, as it will help prevent browning. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and consume them within a day or two.

In conclusion, the Creamy Avocado Chicken Quinoa Bowl is truly a delightful culinary experience that can be easily crafted at home. With a balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, it’s a complete meal that feels indulgent yet is packed with nutrients. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the fresh flavors and vibrant textures of this delicious dish! Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t forget to let your creativity shine through each time you make it!