Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that's as nutritious as it is delicious? Say hello to Chicken Quinoa Bowls with Peanut Sauce—a delightful fusion of Thai flavors that will leave you craving more! This easy-to-make recipe not only packs a protein punch but also combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa and vibrant mixed greens, all drizzled with a creamy, irresistible peanut sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option that will impress your friends, these bowls are a must-try. Dive into the recipe and discover how to create a culinary masterpiece in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 cup mixed greens
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the quinoa. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the chicken. Pat 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- While the chicken is resting, prepare the peanut sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of peanut butter, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and 1/4 cup of honey until smooth and well combined. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of warm water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked quinoa evenly among four bowls. Top each bowl with a generous handful of mixed greens (about 1 cup per bowl) and the sliced chicken.
- Drizzle the peanut sauce generously over the chicken and greens. You can add more sauce to taste if desired.
- For added flavor and texture, consider garnishing with chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you have them on hand.
- Serve the chicken quinoa bowls immediately, enjoying the combination of flavors and textures in each bite!
Tips
- Perfectly Fluffy Quinoa: Rinse your quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness. This step is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture that complements the dish perfectly.
- Chicken Cooking Tip: To ensure even cooking, let your chicken breasts rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before seasoning and cooking. This helps them cook more evenly.
- Peanut Sauce Consistency: If your peanut sauce is too thick, don't hesitate to add warm water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. A smooth sauce will coat the chicken and greens beautifully.
- Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a splash of lime juice to your peanut sauce for a zesty kick, or toss in some chopped cilantro for added freshness.
- Garnishing Ideas: Elevate your bowls with garnishes like chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, or sesame seeds. These not only add flavor but also provide a delightful crunch.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Prepare the chicken and quinoa in advance, and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble your bowls fresh when you're ready to eat.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out the mixed greens for your favorite leafy greens or add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition. Enjoy your cooking adventure with these tips, and savor every bite of your Chicken Quinoa Bowls with Peanut Sauce!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
