Name: High-Protein Minimal-Prep Meal Plan: Grilled Chicken & Quinoa Bowls
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 (6 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp ground black pepper; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 cup quinoa (uncooked); 2 cups water; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 large cucumber, diced; 1 ripe avocado, sliced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional); 1 lemon, zested and juiced

High-Protein Minimal-Prep Meal Plan: Grilled Chicken & Quinoa Bowls

SweetBanana8605

This meal plan is designed for maximum protein, minimal fuss, and seasonal freshness—perfect for Oklahoma’s late-summer weather. Grilled chicken brings smoky, savory flavor and lean protein, while fluffy quinoa provides a wholesome base. Fresh tomatoes and cucumber add crunch and hydration, balanced by creamy avocado and bright lemon. The bowls are ideal for meal prep, holding up well in the fridge and tasting just as good cold as warm. With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a week’s worth of nourishing, satisfying meals—no processed ingredients, just real food!

Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Brush chicken breasts with 1 tbsp olive oil, then season evenly with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, and smoked paprika.
Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until deeply golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Rest 5 minutes, then slice.
Meanwhile, rinse quinoa well under cold water. Add quinoa and 2 cups water to a saucepan with 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Let sit 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Toss cherry tomatoes and cucumber in a bowl with remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, and the lemon zest and juice.
To assemble each bowl, layer quinoa, sliced grilled chicken, tomato-cucumber salad, and avocado. Sprinkle with feta if using.
Serve immediately, or pack in airtight containers for meal prep. Store in the fridge up to 4 days.