Ingredients
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups chicken broth or water
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup baby spinach
– ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
– Olive oil, for cooking
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your flavorful Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowls:
1. Rinse Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer to remove its bitter coating.
2. Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and chicken broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Prepare Chicken: While the quinoa cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Slice Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then slice it into strips.
6. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, and baby spinach. Stir gently until well mixed.
7. Assemble Bowls: Divide the quinoa mixture into serving bowls. Top each with sliced chicken and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
8. Garnish: Add fresh basil leaves on top for an extra touch of flavor and color.
9. Final Touch: Drizzle with additional pesto if desired, and serve warm.
These straightforward steps will guide you in crafting an impressive yet easy meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 17g
- Protein: 30g