Looking to spice up your meal routine with a vibrant, healthy dish? The Spicy Chicken Tenderloin, Mango, and Quinoa Bowl is the perfect fusion of flavors that will leave you satisfied and energized. This meal combines tender chicken, sweet and juicy mango, and nutritious quinoa, creating a bowl full of dynamic tastes and textures.
Why This Recipe Works
This dish balances the spiciness of the chicken tenderloin with the natural sweetness of mango, while quinoa adds a fluffy and nutritious base. Fresh arugula (or rocket) and crunchy red bell pepper slices bring a crisp contrast, and the dish is finished with a refreshing splash of lime juice and aromatic cilantro.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 chicken tenderloins – lean and tender, perfect for absorbing bold flavors
- 1 ripe mango, diced – adds sweetness and a tropical touch
- 1 cup cooked quinoa – a high-protein, gluten-free grain that serves as a hearty base
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced – adds crunch and color
- 1 cup arugula (or rocket) – provides a peppery freshness
- 1 tablespoon lime juice – adds a zesty citrus twist
- Salt and pepper to taste – basic seasoning to enhance flavors
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for roasting and flavor
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce – for that spicy kick
- Chopped cilantro – for garnish, adding freshness and aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, olive oil, and hot sauce to infuse the meat with flavor. Place the chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender.
2. Prepare the Quinoa
While the chicken is baking, cook the quinoa following the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains and set it aside.
3. Assemble the Bowl
Start with a base of quinoa in your serving bowl. Add layers of arugula, red bell pepper slices, and diced mango to create a colorful and nutritious bowl. Once the chicken is ready, either slice it or leave it whole and place it on top of the vegetables.
4. Finish with a Citrus Zing
To bring everything together, drizzle the bowl with lime juice. Top it off with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and aroma.
Optional Add-ons:
- Toasted almonds or cashews for added crunch.
- Diced avocado for a creamy texture and extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions:
You can enjoy this bowl warm, right out of the oven, or at room temperature. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for busy days ahead. Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients to fuel your day.
A Nutritional Powerhouse
This bowl is more than just flavorful—it’s loaded with protein from the chicken and quinoa, vitamins and antioxidants from the mango and bell peppers, and healthy fats from olive oil and optional avocado. Together, they create a balanced meal that’s not only satisfying but also nourishing.
Whether you’re looking for a quick, wholesome dinner or a colorful lunch option, this Spicy Chicken Tenderloin, Mango, and Quinoa Bowl is the perfect choice. It’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavors, and flexible enough to adapt to your personal taste.
Enjoy the perfect harmony of spice, sweetness, and freshness in every bite!
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Spicy Chicken Tenderloin, Mango, and Quinoa Bowl
Description
Elevate your meal with this Spicy Chicken Tenderloin, Mango, and Quinoa Bowl. This vibrant dish combines zesty chicken, sweet mango, and fluffy quinoa, delivering a spicy, sweet, and nutritious meal that will tantalize your taste buds and rejuvenate your energy.
Ingredients
2 chicken tenderloins
1 ripe mango, diced
1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup arugula or rocket
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon hot sauce
Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, olive oil, and hot sauce.
Place the tenderloins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked thoroughly and tender.
Prepare the Quinoa:
Cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Once done, fluff it with a fork and set aside.
Assemble the Bowl:
In a bowl, create a base with cooked quinoa.
Layer arugula, red bell pepper slices, and mango on top.
Add the cooked chicken tenderloins, slicing them if desired.
Add the Finishing Touches:
Drizzle with lime juice for a fresh hint of citrus.
Garnish with chopped cilantro for added zest and aroma.
Serve:
Enjoy this bowl warm or at room temperature for a vibrant and wholesome meal perfect for any occasion.