This fresh and hearty quinoa bowl is packed with juicy chicken, crisp veggies, chickpeas and crunchy California walnuts, all tied together with a zesty garlic lemon yogurt sauce. Great for meal prep or as an easy, satisfying weeknight dinner.
1 cup quinoa
1 can chickpeas
2 chicken breast, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup cucumbers, chopped
1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
1⁄2 red onion, sliced
fresh herbs
1 cup California walnuts
2 avocados, chopped
1⁄2 cup Greek yogurt
1 lemon + zest
2 cloves garlic, chopped
Salt, pepper
Herbs
Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice and zest, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Adjust consistency with a splash of water if desired. Set aside.
While quinoa and chicken are cooking, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, roasted red peppers, onion, avocado, and fresh herbs.
Divide cooked quinoa evenly into 4 bowls. Top each with chicken, chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, roasted red peppers, onion, avocado, and ¼ cup California walnuts. Drizzle generously with garlic lemon yogurt sauce.
Garnish with additional herbs and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately.