Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl

Name: Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups water or chicken broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh spinach; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Wholesome & Clean Eating

I’ve recently discovered how incredibly satisfying a Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl can be. The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant pesto, and hearty grains makes for a nourishing meal that’s both quick and easy to prepare. I love how this dish balances protein and flavor while being customizable with your favorite vegetables. It’s become a staple in my kitchen for busy weeknights or meal prep days, and I think you’ll find it just as delightful as I do!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:30:28.018Z

When I first decided to create a Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl, I was looking for a way to incorporate more protein into my meals without sacrificing flavor. I experimented with various ingredients, and I landed on a mix of tender chicken breast, homemade basil pesto, and a base of quinoa. This combination not only elevates the taste but also adds a delightful texture to the bowl.

What I learned through my trials is that letting the chicken marinate in the pesto for even 15 minutes enhances its flavor significantly. The key is to use fresh ingredients for the pesto, as this elevates the dish beyond a simple meal into something completely satisfying. I often add roasted vegetables for an extra layer of nutrition and taste!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with high-quality protein for lasting energy
Fresh basil pesto adds a burst of flavor
Customizable with your favorite veggies and grains

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of the Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl is the boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They're not only an excellent source of lean protein, but they also absorb the aromatic flavors of the pesto during marination, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to cut down on preparation time, ensuring you still enjoy this balanced meal even on the busiest nights.

Quinoa is the perfect base for this high-protein bowl. It's a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. Rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove the natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitter flavor. Cooking it in chicken broth instead of water intensifies the flavor, making the dish even more satisfying.

Cooking Techniques for Success

When marinating the chicken, aim for at least 15 minutes, but if you have more time, letting it sit for an hour will deepen the flavor even further. If using homemade pesto, ensure it's well blended until smooth, which will help it coat the chicken evenly. Keep an eye on the chicken while cooking; you want it to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for optimal food safety and juiciness. A good visual cue is a golden brown exterior, which indicates a nice sear has developed.

For the quinoa, after it simmers, let it rest with the lid on for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. This step allows it to finish cooking through steam, ensuring your quinoa is light and fluffy rather than gummy. You can enhance this dish further by tossing in seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers when you sauté the chicken, providing not only added nutrition but a pop of color.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl:

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

You can also add your choice of roasted vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken breasts and basil pesto. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of quinoa and 2 cups of water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden brown.

Assemble the Bowl

Once the chicken is cooked, slice it and arrange it on top of the quinoa. Add fresh spinach and halved cherry tomatoes for color and freshness.

Serve and Enjoy

Drizzle any remaining pesto over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy your nourishing Pesto Chicken High-Protein Bowl!

This dish can be served warm or cold for meal prep options throughout the week.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out quinoa for brown rice or couscous, and add any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. The key is to keep the flavors fresh and the textures interesting!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This high-protein bowl is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the quinoa and chicken in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat the chicken in a skillet for a couple of minutes to restore its juiciness before assembling your bowl. Fresh veggies like spinach and tomatoes should be added just before serving to maintain their crispness and vibrant flavor.

If you want to freeze portions, do so without the fresh vegetables. Store the chicken and quinoa together in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this bowl is delicious as is, you can easily customize it based on seasonal produce or dietary preferences. Try adding roasted sweet potatoes for some sweetness and additional fiber, or switch the quinoa for farro or brown rice for a different texture. A sprinkle of feta cheese or sliced avocado on top adds creaminess and richness that complements the pesto beautifully.

For a bit of heat, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha. You could also transform the bowl into a wrap by using a large lettuce leaf or whole-grain tortilla, providing a portable option that’s great for lunches or picnics.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the pesto from scratch?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto is simple to make using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I use other proteins?

Yes, this bowl works well with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ What's the best way to cook quinoa?

Use a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to water or broth, and let it simmer covered until fluffy for perfect results.