Name: Meal Prep Chicken Quinoa Fried Rice Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked white quinoa, rinsed (Make sure to rinse thoroughly.); 1 1/4 – 2 cups chicken broth (Adjust the amount based on desired flavor.); 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks (Can substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.); 2 large eggs, whisked (Use non-stick skillet for easier cooking.); 1/2 medium onion, finely diced; 2-3 large carrots, peeled and finely diced; 1/2 cup frozen peas (Can use fresh peas if available.); 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger; 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1/2 tablespoon Sambal Oelek (Add more for extra heat.); 2-3 tablespoons avocado or olive oil (For sautéing.); to taste Salt and pepper

Why you’ll love this dish

Meal Prep Chicken Quinoa Fried ‘Rice’ Bowls combine the hearty texture of quinoa with protein-packed chicken and vibrant veggies, making it a wholesome option for any meal. This dish is especially fantastic for busy individuals and families who want a nutritious meal ready to grab and go. It’s easy to make in bulk, perfect for meal prep, and ensures you have a delicious homemade option at your fingertips throughout the week. You may also find Tofu Meal Prep Bowls useful.

"I tried this recipe last week, and it has quickly become a family favorite. The flavors blend beautifully, and it feels good to enjoy such a nutritious meal." You may also find Avocado Chicken Quinoa Bowl useful.

The cooking process explained

Making Meal Prep Chicken Quinoa Fried ‘Rice’ Bowls is straightforward and rewarding. You start by cooking quinoa in chicken broth, which infuses it with great flavor. While the quinoa cooks, you sauté chicken and veggies in a skillet, adding a delightful aromatics mix of garlic and ginger. The last step involves folding in the cooked quinoa with the chicken and vegetables, creating a harmony of textures and tastes. This method not only highlights each ingredient but also ensures a well-balanced final dish.

To complement your meal prep routine, you might want to check out these healthy lemon garlic chicken meal prep bowls for a variety of flavors in your weekly lineup.

What you’ll need

Here’s a list of ingredients to gather for your Meal Prep Chicken Quinoa Fried ‘Rice’ Bowls:

1 cup uncooked white quinoa, rinsed
1 1/4 – 2 cups chicken broth
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
2-3 tablespoons avocado or olive oil
1/2 medium onion, finely diced
2 large or 3 small carrots, peeled and finely diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1/2 tablespoon Sambal Oelek
2 large eggs, whisked
1/2 cup frozen peas
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions to follow

Cook quinoa on the stove top according to package directions using chicken broth. You’ll need about 3 cups of cooked quinoa, which you’ll cool on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, and Sambal Oelek.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet, add the chicken, and cook until browned. This should take about 6-8 minutes, after which you should set the chicken aside.
In the same pan, heat an additional 1/2 tablespoon of oil, add the onion and carrot, and cook until translucent. Then add garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the cooked quinoa and the sauce mixture, allowing this to cook for about 3 minutes.
Create a well in the center of the mixture, pour in the whisked eggs, cook for about a minute, then mix into the quinoa.
Finally, add the peas and the chicken back into the pan, stir, and heat through for about 2-3 minutes before serving.
You can serve immediately or store in meal prep containers for later.

These bowls are truly versatile. If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider trying meal prep unstuffed pepper bowls to change things up!

How to serve Meal Prep Chicken Quinoa Fried ‘Rice’ Bowls

To enjoy your Meal Prep Chicken Quinoa Fried ‘Rice’ Bowls at their best, consider garnishing with freshly chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch. These bowls can be served warm or cold, making them ideal for packed lunches or quick dinners. Pairing with a side salad or steamed broccoli can round out the meal beautifully, helping you adhere to wholesome eating while still enjoying delightful flavors.

Storage and reheating tips

When it comes to storing your Meal Prep Chicken Quinoa Fried ‘Rice’ Bowls, keep them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you prefer longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just be mindful of proper food handling practices to ensure freshness upon reheating. You can easily reheat them in the microwave or on the stove until they are warmed through.

If you enjoy meal prep, you might also explore high-protein grilled chicken breast meal prep bowls for more delicious options.

Tips to make

For an even better outcome, consider these tips:

Make sure to rinse your quinoa thoroughly to remove any bitterness from its outer coating.
Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preference; bell peppers and zucchini make great additions.
Use a non-stick skillet for easier cooking and cleanup, especially when incorporating eggs into the mixture.

Variations

If you want to experiment with flavors, consider the following variations:

Swapping out chicken for tofu or another protein can cater to different dietary preferences.
For a spicy kick, add more Sambal Oelek or some chopped red chili peppers to the mix.
Make it a vegetarian dish by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables or beans for protein.

FAQ

What is the prep time for this recipe?
Typically, the prep time is around 10-15 minutes, followed by about 20 minutes of cooking time.

Can I use brown quinoa instead?
Yes, you can use brown quinoa, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly.

How do I ensure the quinoa is fluffy?
Make sure to rinse the quinoa well before cooking, and allow it to rest for a few minutes off the heat after it’s cooked; this will help with fluffiness.

Conclusion

Meal Prep Chicken Quinoa Fried ‘Rice’ Bowls stand out as a delicious and highly nutritious meal option that can simplify your weeknight dinners and work lunches. For additional meal prep ideas, you might like to check out these Chicken Quinoa Fried Rice recipes, which offer a delightful twist, or take a look at this creative preparation from Peas and Crayons for further inspiration.