High Protein Balanced Bowls

Name: High Protein Balanced Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups mixed greens; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

High protein balanced bowls

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T19:01:14.947Z

These high protein balanced bowls are not only nutritious but also delicious. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, they can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein to fuel your day
Versatile and customizable to suit your taste
Healthy ingredients that are both satisfying and nourishing

      

The Benefits of High Protein Meals

High protein meals are essential for maintaining a balanced diet, especially for those who lead active lifestyles. Protein plays a critical role in repairing tissues, building muscle, and supporting overall health. Incorporating protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas and chicken into your meals can help keep you feeling full longer, reducing the likelihood of unhealthy snacking throughout the day.

Moreover, high protein diets have been linked to increased metabolism, which can aid in weight management. By choosing ingredients that are not only high in protein but also rich in vitamins and minerals, you're making a smart choice for your health. This balanced bowl recipe is an excellent way to fuel your body with the nutrients it needs to thrive.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of high protein balanced bowls is their versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on your dietary preferences and what you have on hand. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and add more chickpeas or other legumes. Feel free to experiment with different greens or grains, such as farro or brown rice, to keep your meals exciting.

Additionally, you can switch up the vegetables according to the season or your taste. Roasted sweet potatoes, steamed broccoli, or even sautéed zucchini can add a unique flavor and texture to your bowls. This flexibility not only makes the recipe more enjoyable but also allows you to incorporate a variety of nutrients into your diet.

Meal Prep Made Easy

These high protein balanced bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts. By preparing a larger batch of quinoa and protein, you can assemble individual bowls for the week ahead. Store the components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness, and simply combine them when you're ready to eat. This not only saves time but also ensures that you have healthy options readily available during busy weekdays.

When meal prepping, consider varying the dressings or toppings to keep things interesting. A simple change in flavor can make a big difference, ensuring you never get bored with your meals. Plus, having these nutritious bowls on hand can help you resist the temptation of takeout or unhealthy snacks.

Ingredients

For the Base

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups mixed greens

For the Protein

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Vegetables

1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to substitute any ingredients to match your preference!

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Assemble the Bowls

In each bowl, layer the mixed greens, cooked quinoa, chickpeas, chicken, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Drizzle with dressing.

Serve

Enjoy your high protein balanced bowls immediately, or store in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Feel free to experiment with different toppings and dressings!

Storage Tips

To keep your high protein balanced bowls fresh, store the ingredients separately until you're ready to eat. This prevents the greens from wilting and ensures that your quinoa remains fluffy. Use airtight containers for both the protein and vegetables, and keep the dressing in a small jar or container to maintain its flavor and consistency.

If you're planning to keep the bowls for more than a couple of days, consider freezing some components, like the chickpeas or cooked chicken. They can be defrosted and used later, providing you with a quick and easy meal option without sacrificing nutrition.

Nutritional Information

These high protein balanced bowls not only taste great but also provide a wealth of nutrients. On average, one serving can contain around 25 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake. The combination of quinoa, chickpeas, and chicken ensures that you're getting a complete amino acid profile.

Additionally, the inclusion of fresh vegetables adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your meal. This bowl is a well-rounded option that supports both your health and energy levels, making it suitable for lunch, dinner, or even as a post-workout meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Just omit the chicken and add more chickpeas or tofu.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! Brown rice or farro would work well too.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free oats and other certified ingredients.