Power-Packed Lunches: 11 Grab-and-Go Meals for the Work Week

Power-Packed Lunches: 11 Grab-and-Go Meals for the Work Week

Food Recipes Ideas

Hearty Chicken & Quinoa Power Bowl

A vibrant and satisfying power bowl featuring tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, fresh veggies, and a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette, perfect for meal prep.

5 from 1 review
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Total Time 40 mins
Servings 1
Calories 480 kcal

📝 Ingredients

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1
    Prepare the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa thoroughly. Combine quinoa and broth/water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed. Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  2. 2
    Roast the Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat chicken dry. Rub with 1 tsp olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let cool, then dice.
  3. 3
    Make the Vinaigrette: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  4. 4
    Assemble the Bowl: In a lunch container, layer the cooked quinoa. Top with diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, chickpeas, spinach/greens, and feta cheese (if using).
  5. 5
    Pack Separately: Store the vinaigrette in a small, lidded container. When ready to eat, pour dressing over the bowl, cover, and shake to combine.

💡 Notes

For meal prep, cook a larger batch of quinoa and chicken at the start of the week. Store dressing separately to prevent sogginess. This bowl is delicious served chilled or at room temperature. Feel free to swap veggies based on seasonal availability or preference.

🥗 Nutrition (per serving)

Calories 480 kcal
Protein 38g
Total Fat 20g
Saturated Fat 5g
Carbs 38g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 6g
Sodium 520mg
Cholesterol 85mg

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