Description
This Peruvian Chicken and Quinoa Bowl with Green Sauce is a delicious and nutritious meal that combines tender marinated chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a flavorful green sauce. It’s a perfect balance of protein, whole grains, and fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- Pinch of salt
For the Peruvian Green Sauce
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Bowl
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium pot, combine rinsed quinoa and water (or broth) with a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Slice into strips.
- Prepare the Green Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked quinoa among serving bowls. Top with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and red onion. Drizzle generously with Peruvian green sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately while warm.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Oven
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 9 g
- Protein: 36 g
