High Protein Meal Prep Bowls
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
These High Protein Meal Prep Bowls are perfect for a nutritious and filling meal that you can prepare in advance. Packed with protein and healthy ingredients, they are ideal for busy weekdays.
Meal prepping has never been easier with these high protein bowls! Not only do they taste great, but they also help you stay on track with your nutrition goals.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Packed with lean protein to fuel your day
- Versatile ingredients that can be swapped based on your preference
- Perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeks
Nutritional Benefits
These High Protein Meal Prep Bowls are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. With a base of quinoa, which is rich in protein and fiber, you’ll feel satisfied for hours. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an ideal choice for those looking to boost their protein intake without relying solely on animal products.
In addition to quinoa, the grilled chicken breast adds lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Black beans contribute additional fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. With the inclusion of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and corn, you’re also getting a variety of vitamins and minerals essential for a balanced diet.
Meal Prep Made Easy
Busy weekdays don’t have to mean sacrificing healthy eating. These meal prep bowls allow you to prepare your meals in advance, saving you time and effort during the week. By dedicating a couple of hours on the weekend to meal prep, you can enjoy home-cooked meals that are nutritious and satisfying without the daily hassle of cooking.
Simply store your assembled bowls in the fridge, and they’ll keep well for up to five days. The versatility of this recipe means you can mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences, making it easy to switch things up and avoid meal fatigue.
Tips for Customization
One of the best features of these High Protein Meal Prep Bowls is their versatility. Feel free to swap out the grilled chicken for another protein source like turkey, tofu, or even shrimp. This flexibility allows you to cater to various dietary preferences, whether you’re aiming for vegetarian, low-carb, or gluten-free options.
You can also modify the toppings and vegetables based on your seasonal favorites or what’s available at your local market. Adding roasted vegetables, different beans, or even a sprinkle of cheese can elevate these bowls and keep your meals exciting throughout the week.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Bowls
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 lb grilled chicken breast, diced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix and match ingredients based on your taste!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Quinoa
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Let rest before dicing.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Assemble the Bowls
In meal prep containers, layer cooked quinoa, chicken, black beans, cherry tomatoes, corn, and avocado. Drizzle with dressing and garnish with cilantro.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Storage and Reheating
To keep your High Protein Meal Prep Bowls fresh, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It’s recommended to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy. These meal prep bowls can last up to five days, making them perfect for your weekly meal planning.
When it comes to reheating, simply pop your bowl in the microwave for a couple of minutes, or enjoy them cold. The flavors meld beautifully over time, and you might find that they taste even better after a day in the fridge!
Serving Suggestions
These High Protein Meal Prep Bowls are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. They make for a hearty lunch at work or a quick dinner after a busy day. You can also serve them alongside a light salad or some roasted sweet potatoes for a more substantial meal.
For added flavor and nutrition, consider topping your bowls with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a squeeze of fresh lime, or even some hot sauce if you enjoy a little kick. This adds an extra layer of flavor that can make your meal even more enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Tofu, shrimp, or turkey can be great substitutes.
→ How long do these meal prep bowls last?
They can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
→ Can I freeze these meal prep bowls?
Yes, you can freeze them, but the texture of some vegetables may change upon thawing.
→ What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
High Protein Meal Prep Bowls
These High Protein Meal Prep Bowls are perfect for a nutritious and filling meal that you can prepare in advance. Packed with protein and healthy ingredients, they are ideal for busy weekdays.
Created by: Lucinda Price
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Bowls
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 lb grilled chicken breast, diced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Let rest before dicing.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
In meal prep containers, layer cooked quinoa, chicken, black beans, cherry tomatoes, corn, and avocado. Drizzle with dressing and garnish with cilantro.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 54g
- Dietary Fiber: 12g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g