Grilled Chicken Tenderloin and Avocado Quinoa Bowl

Looking for a meal that’s as delicious as it is nourishing? Say hello to the Grilled Chicken Tenderloin and Avocado Quinoa Bowl! This wholesome dish brings together a mix of lean protein, vibrant veggies, and creamy avocado over a base of fluffy quinoa. Ideal for a quick lunch or satisfying dinner, this bowl packs a punch of flavors and nutrients to fuel your day. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe, perfect for personalizing to your taste.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through how to prepare each component of this dish, from the zesty grilled chicken to the fresh, veggie-packed quinoa base, and tips to make this bowl your own!

Ingredients Overview:

This recipe’s main stars are grilled chicken tenderloin, avocado, and quinoa—each bringing a unique flavor and nutritional benefit to the bowl:

• Chicken Tenderloin: Marinated with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, the chicken is grilled to tender, juicy perfection.
• Quinoa: This gluten-free grain is rich in protein and fiber, providing a nutritious base.
• Avocado & Fresh Veggies: Creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, and nutrient-dense spinach add vibrant colors and textures to the bowl.
• Lemon Dressing: A tangy, light lemon dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Ingredients List:

1. For the Chicken Tenderloin:
   • 4 chicken tenderloin pieces
   • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
   • 2 garlic cloves, minced
   • 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
   • 2 tbsp olive oil
   • Salt and pepper, to taste
2. For the Quinoa Bowl:
   • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
   • 2 cups water or chicken broth
   • 2 ripe avocados, sliced
   • 1 cucumber, diced
   • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
   • 1 large carrot, shredded
   • 2 cups fresh baby spinach or mixed greens
   • ¼ red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
3. For the Lemon Dressing:
   • Juice of 1 lemon
   • 2 tbsp olive oil
   • 1 tsp honey or Dijon mustard (optional)
   • Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Quinoa:
   • Rinse the quinoa to remove any bitterness.
   • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil.
   • Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
   • Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
2. Marinate and Grill the Chicken Tenderloin:
   • In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, fresh herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   • Brush the marinade onto the chicken tenderloin pieces.
   • Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side or until fully cooked with a nice char. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Bowl:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrot, and baby spinach.
   • Slice the avocados and add them to the mixture.
   • Optional: Thinly sliced red onion adds extra flavor and crunch.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey or Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Dress and Serve:
   • Drizzle the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture and toss gently.
   • Divide the salad into individual bowls, placing a grilled chicken tenderloin piece atop each one.
   • Garnish with fresh herbs, a wedge of lemon, or a sprinkle of seeds or nuts for added texture.

Tips & Customizations:

• Add More Veggies: Roasted sweet potatoes, steamed broccoli, or bell peppers work well in this bowl, adding extra color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade if you enjoy a bit of heat.
• Protein Boost: Top with a sprinkle of pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added protein and crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Grilled Chicken Tenderloin and Avocado Quinoa Bowl is a celebration of fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re meal-prepping or crafting a family dinner, this recipe is designed to impress with minimal fuss. Plus, it’s packed with essential nutrients from high-quality protein, heart-healthy fats, and fiber-rich veggies, making it an ideal choice for a balanced, filling meal.