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Smoky Chicken Grain Lunch Bowls recipe

Smoky Chicken Grain Lunch Bowls

A smiling woman in a modern kitchen, wearing a brown apron, preparing a delicious dish with fresh ingredients.Sorrel Calver
A delicious and easy-to-make lunch bowl featuring smoky chicken, a variety of grains, and fresh corn. Perfect for meal prep and satisfying lunches.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine American
Servings 4 bowls
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 grill pan
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 Saucepan for cooking grains

Ingredients
  

Marinade

  • 2 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 cup fresh corn kernels
  • 2 cups mixed greens

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 avocado sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Mix until well combined.
  • Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

Cooking

  • While the chicken is marinating, cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Once cooked, set aside to cool slightly.
  • Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.
  • In a saucepan, boil the fresh corn kernels for 2-3 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.

Assembly

  • In each bowl, place a portion of quinoa, a generous helping of mixed greens, slices of grilled chicken, and a scoop of corn. Add any optional add-ins like avocado or feta cheese.
  • Serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a garnish of cilantro. Enjoy your smoky chicken grain bowl fresh for the best flavor.

Storage

  • Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble bowls just before serving to maintain freshness.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use smoked paprika for maximum flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: Swap chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
How to Serve: Best served fresh with a squeeze of lemon.
Storage & Freshness: Keep components separate until assembly.
Make-Ahead Tips: Marinate chicken overnight for deeper flavors.
Keyword Grain Bowl, Meal Prep, Smoky Chicken