Oil-Free Pesto chicken quinoa bowls are a wonderful and nutritious meal that combines the vibrant flavors of homemade pesto, tender chicken, and wholesome quinoa. This dish is delicious and oil-free, making it a healthy choice for any time of the day.
It originated in ITALY. but Pesto has found its way into many American kitchens. This recipe has gained popularity in the USA for its balanced flavors and versatility, suitable for both lunch and dinner.
Let’s dive into creating this mouthwatering dish!
What is the Specialty of Oil-Free Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowls?
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2. Marinated and grilled to perfection, the chicken in this dish is juicy and flavorful.
3. Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowls are highly customizable. You can add roasted vegetables, swap chicken for tofu, or incorporate your favorite toppings to make it uniquely your.
How To Cook Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowls
Pesto sauce originated in Italy and is famous worldwide for its vibrant flavors. The popularity of Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowls can be attributed to the perfect balance of taste, health benefits, and customization options. The combination of fresh ingredients and the versatility of pesto make it a favorite among American households.
Ingredients
Cooking Instructions
Step #1
At first, you need to start by marinating the chicken breasts. In marination combine lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper in a bowl. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step #2
Then while the chicken marries, rinse the quinoa in cold water to remove any bitterness. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
Step #3
Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed.
Step #4
After that, you need to remove it from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Gradually fluff the quinoa with a fork.
Step #5
After that, for the pesto sauce, combine fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese in a food processor. Pulse until well combined.
Step #6
While the processor is running, you need to gradually add the lemon juice until the mixture becomes smooth season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step #7
Next, you need to heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Then grill the marinated chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Step #8
After that, remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into thin strips.
Step #9
Then you need to assemble the bowls and divide the cooked quinoa among serving bowls.
Step #10
Finally, top with sliced pesto chicken, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. Then drizzle the homemade pesto sauce generously over the chicken and quinoa.
Pro Tips
Add roasted pine nuts and a squeeze of lemon juice as a finishing touch to your Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowls for an extra burst of freshness and flavor.
When the tomatoes come out of the oven, you should handle them carefully to prevent breaking them before adding them to your bowls. They will be hot and practically blistered.
Estimate Time
65minutes
45 minutes
20 minutes
480 Kcal
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Storage Information
These pesto chicken quinoa bowls can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days.
Try pre-portioning each ingredient into separate containers in advance for simple dinne! In this manner, you can quickly pack lunch by grabbing the pre-assembled bowl on your way out the door.
Substitutions and Variations
- To make vegetarian: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh.
- To make gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- To make nut-free: Use a nut-free pesto like this one.
health benefits of Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowls
Oil-free Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowls offer several health benefits due to their nutrient-rich ingredients and preparation method. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines the best Italian-inspired cuisine with a nutritious twist. Try it!!
Here are some of the health benefits:
Low in Saturated Fat
Traditional pesto sauce often contains a significant amount of olive oil, which is high in saturated fat.
Lean Protein
The grilled chicken in this dish is an excellent source of lean protein for muscle growth, repair, and overall bodily functions.
High in Fiber
Quinoa is rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Abundant Vitamins and Minerals
Basil, a key ingredient in pesto, is packed with vitamins and minerals to support bone health and the immune system.
Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe
Delicious Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe
Course: DINNER, LUNCHCuisine: American, Italian45
minutes20
minutes480
kcal1
hour5
minutesOil-free Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowls offer several health benefits due to their nutrient-rich ingredients and preparation method. et’s dive into creating this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
Two boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts
Two cloves garlic
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Cherry tomatoes for garnish
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions
- At first, you need to start by marinating the chicken breasts. In margination combine lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper in a bowl. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Then while the chicken marries, rinse the quinoa in cold water to remove any bitterness. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed.
- After that, you need to remove it from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Gradually fluff the quinoa with a fork.
- After that, for the pesto sauce, combine fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese in a food processor. Pulse until well combined.
- While the processor is running, you need to gradually add the lemon juice until the mixture becomes smooth season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Next, you need to heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Then grill the marinated chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- After that, remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into thin strips.
- Then you need to assemble the bowls and divide the cooked quinoa among serving bowls.
- Finally, top with sliced pesto chicken, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. Then drizzle the homemade pesto sauce generously over the chicken and quinoa.
Pro Tips
- Add roasted pine nuts and a squeeze of lemon juice as a finishing touch to your Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowls for an extra burst of freshness and flavor.
- When the tomatoes come out of the oven, you should handle them carefully to prevent breaking them before adding them to your bowls. They will be hot and practically blistered.
Conclusion
It’s important to note that while this dish offers several health benefits, portion control is still crucial, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Nutrition Facts
4 servings per container
Serving Size1g
- Amount Per ServingCalories480
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat
20g
31%
- Saturated Fat 4g 20%
- Cholesterol 95mg 32%
- Sodium 450mg 19%
- Total Carbohydrate
36g
12%
- Dietary Fiber 4g 16%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 37g 74%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
FAQ:
Can I use store-bought pesto sauce instead of making my own?
You can use store-bought pesto sauce for convenience, but homemade pesto enhances the flavor.
Can I substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version?
Absolutely! Grilled or pan-fried tofu is an excellent vegetarian alternative.
How long can I store the leftovers in the refrigerator?
Pieces can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I make the pesto sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the pesto sauce a day ahead.
Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
Certainly! You can use rice, couscous, or even cauliflower rice as a substitute.
Read More Tasty Breakfast Recipes:
- Easy Vegan Oatmeal Pancakes Recipe
- Oil-Free Peanut Butter Banana Toast Recipe
- Tropical Zucchini Bread with Pineapple Recipe
- Homemade Oil-Free SCD Yogurt Recipe
- How to Make A Delicious Crunchy Quinoa Recipe
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