High Protein Comfort Bowls

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Discover the ultimate comfort food with a healthy twist in these High Protein Comfort Bowls, perfect for nourishing your body and satisfying your cravings.

Ottilie James

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2025-12-25T17:28:14.512Z

These high protein comfort bowls are a delicious way to enjoy a hearty meal while fueling your body with essential nutrients. Packed with protein-rich ingredients like chicken, quinoa, and beans, these bowls will keep you satisfied and energized.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Nutritious ingredients that keep you full and satisfied
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings
  • Perfect for meal prep and quick weeknight dinners

Nourishing Ingredients for a Balanced Meal

These High Protein Comfort Bowls are packed with wholesome ingredients that not only taste great but also provide essential nutrients. Quinoa serves as a fantastic base, offering a complete source of protein and fiber, which helps keep you full and energized throughout the day. The inclusion of cooked chicken adds an extra protein punch, making this dish ideal for those looking to fuel their bodies after a workout or a long day.

In addition to the protein sources, the colorful array of vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes and avocado, contribute vitamins and antioxidants that are vital for overall health. Avocado, in particular, is rich in healthy fats, which support heart health and help with nutrient absorption. The black beans and corn add a delightful texture and additional fiber, ensuring that each bite is both satisfying and nutritious.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best aspects of these High Protein Comfort Bowls is their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you're vegetarian or looking to reduce meat intake, simply replace the chicken with more beans or grilled vegetables for a hearty plant-based option. For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra kick.

The toppings are where you can really let your creativity shine! Experiment with different ingredients like fresh spinach, roasted sweet potatoes, or feta cheese to create variations that keep your meals exciting. This flexibility not only makes meal prep easier but also allows you to use up any ingredients you have on hand, reducing food waste.

Perfect for Meal Prep

These High Protein Comfort Bowls are ideal for meal prepping. Preparing a large batch at the beginning of the week means you’ll have a nutritious meal ready to go, saving you time and effort on busy weeknights. Simply store the components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness, and assemble your bowls when you’re ready to eat. This method preserves the textures of the ingredients and keeps your meals looking vibrant.

Additionally, these bowls can be easily reheated, making them a convenient choice for lunch or dinner. Just pop them in the microwave, and you’ll have a healthy meal in minutes. Whether you're at home or on the go, these bowls provide a satisfying and nourishing option that can help you stick to your health goals.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious comfort bowls.

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or broth
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Spice Mix

  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Get all the ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create your high protein comfort bowls.

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Chicken and Beans

In a skillet over medium heat, add shredded chicken, black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Assemble the Bowls

In serving bowls, layer the cooked quinoa, chicken and bean mixture, cherry tomatoes, and avocado slices. Top with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious high protein comfort bowls!

Storage Tips

To keep your High Protein Comfort Bowls fresh, store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The quinoa and chicken mixture can last up to four days, while the fresh veggies should ideally be consumed within two days for the best flavor and texture. When you're ready to enjoy a bowl, simply reheat the quinoa and chicken mixture and add the fresh ingredients just before serving.

If you want to extend the shelf life, consider freezing the quinoa and chicken mixture. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will last for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat for a quick meal.

Serving Suggestions

These High Protein Comfort Bowls are wonderfully versatile and can be served as a main dish or a side. Pair them with a light salad or a side of steamed veggies for a complete meal. If you're hosting a gathering, consider setting up a build-your-own bowl bar where guests can customize their bowls with a variety of toppings and sauces.

To elevate the flavor even further, try drizzling a homemade dressing or sauce over the assembled bowls. A simple lime vinaigrette or a spicy yogurt sauce can add an exciting twist and enhance the overall taste. This adaptability makes the bowls perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or additional beans for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I meal prep these bowls?

You can prepare the quinoa and chicken mixture in advance and store them separately in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze the comfort bowls?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and bean mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to eat.

→ What toppings can I add?

You can add toppings like cheese, salsa, or sour cream to enhance the flavor of your bowls.

High Protein Comfort Bowls

Discover the ultimate comfort food with a healthy twist in these High Protein Comfort Bowls, perfect for nourishing your body and satisfying your cravings.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Ottilie James

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Base Ingredients

  1. 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  2. 2 cups water or broth
  3. 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  4. 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  5. 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
  6. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  7. 1 avocado, sliced
  8. 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  9. Lime wedges, for serving

Spice Mix

  1. 1 tsp cumin
  2. 1 tsp paprika
  3. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Step 02

In a skillet over medium heat, add shredded chicken, black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Step 03

In serving bowls, layer the cooked quinoa, chicken and bean mixture, cherry tomatoes, and avocado slices. Top with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 10g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 35g