High-Protein Chicken & Shrimp Power Bowls Recipe

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Are you ready to dig into a dish that’s not just delicious but also packed with protein and vibrant flavors? Let me introduce you to High-Protein Chicken & Shrimp Power Bowls! Imagine sinking your fork into a bed of fluffy quinoa, topped with tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a rainbow of fresh veggies. There’s something comforting about the creaminess of the dish, yet it’s light and perfect for any season. This recipe feels like a warm hug that lifts your spirits without weighing you down—perfect for boosting your energy and filling you up!

Cooking these power bowls is a breeze and can be whipped up in no time. You don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Everything you need is likely sitting in your pantry or fridge. This dish is great for meal prep, so you can save time during a busy week or wow your friends at a get-together. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again. It checks all the boxes: creamy without cream, satisfying, and loaded with nutrients. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love High-Protein Chicken & Shrimp Power Bowls (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)

You might be wondering, “Why should I even try making High-Protein Chicken & Shrimp Power Bowls?” Well, let me give you the scoop! This dish combines the best of both worlds: the satisfying crunch of fresh veggies and the softness of perfectly cooked proteins. Plus, it’s super versatile. You can adjust it according to your tastes or what you have in your kitchen.

Here are just a few reasons you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:

  • Speedy Preparation: You can whip this dish up in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Creamy Without Cream: It achieves a luscious, creamy texture thanks to the vibrant ingredients.
  • Pantry-Friendly: Most ingredients are likely already in your pantry or fridge.
  • Ideal for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it all week long without getting bored.
  • Dietary Notes: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies—a balanced meal in a bowl.
  • Kid-Friendly: The fun colors and flavors can make it appealing to picky eaters!
  • Customizable: Feel free to swap proteins or veggies to fit your preferences!

Chicken, Shrimp, Quinoa, Bell Peppers, Cherry Tomatoes, Fresh Spinach, Toasted Almonds, Feta Cheese (Optional), Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper for High-Protein Chicken & Shrimp Power Bowls

Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to make these delightful power bowls:

  • Chicken Breast – Lean protein that keeps you energized and full.
  • Shrimp – Adds a touch of sweetness and a tender bite that’s always satisfying.
  • Quinoa – A nutty base that’s full of protein and gives your dish a lovely texture.
  • Bell Peppers – Crunchy, colorful bites that bring a pop of freshness.
  • Cherry Tomatoes – Juicy little bursts of flavor that brighten up each spoonful.
  • Fresh Spinach – Packs vitamins and adds a lovely green color.
  • Toasted Almonds – Crunchy! They give a delightful texture and nutty flavor.
  • Feta Cheese (Optional) – A sprinkle of tangy cheese for added creaminess.
  • Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps bring everything together.
  • Salt & Pepper – Basic seasoning enhances all those yummy flavors.

Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below!

How to Make High-Protein Chicken & Shrimp Power Bowls

Phase 1 – Prep

  1. Gather Your Ingredients: Make sure you have all the items on hand listed above.
  2. Cook Quinoa: Rinse and cook quinoa according to package instructions. It should be fluffy and slightly nutty.
  3. Chop Vegetables: Dice bell peppers and halve cherry tomatoes. Rinse spinach and set it aside.

Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble

  1. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breast, seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add Shrimp: Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the bell peppers and tomatoes. Cook until the veggies are tender.

Phase 3 – Serve

  1. Layer the Bowls: Start with a base of quinoa, then add the chicken and shrimp mix.
  2. Top It Off: Sprinkle spinach and toasted almonds, and add feta cheese if you like.
  3. Drizzle and Enjoy!: Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper if needed!

Pro Tips for the Best Results

  • Swaps: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, try using tofu or your favorite white fish.
  • Cooking Technique: Ensure the pan is hot before adding your chicken to get a nice sear.
  • Storage Time Saver: Chop your veggies ahead of time and store them in the fridge to make dinner prep even faster.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking shrimp, which can turn them rubbery and tough. To avoid this, watch the shrimp closely while cooking; they should turn a lovely pink and curl slightly when done.

Another mistake can be undercooking quinoa, leaving it crunchy instead of fluffy. Always rinse the quinoa before cooking, and use the correct water-to-quinoa ratio for a perfect texture.

Lastly, don’t skip the seasoning! A little salt and pepper elevate the flavors significantly. Taste as you go—it’s the best way to ensure every bite is delightful.

Recipe Variations

  • Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure no cross-contact with gluten in the kitchen.
  • Dairy-Free: Omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
  • Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or some red pepper flakes for a kick!
  • Herbal: Toss in some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
  • Cooking Method: You can easily make this in an Instant Pot or air fryer if you prefer!

How to Serve High-Protein Chicken & Shrimp Power Bowls

Best Pairings: Pair with a simple green salad or whole-grain bread for a heartier meal.

Toppings: Sprinkle with extra almonds, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon for freshness.

Garnishes: A dollop of hummus or tzatziki can add an exciting twist.

Make Ahead & Storage

Can I Meal Prep This?

Yes! These power bowls are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. They taste great cold or reheated!

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled bowls for up to 2 months. Just make a note that some veggies may lose crunchiness upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. You can also warm it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to keep things moist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking for an even texture.

How to make it extra creamy without cream?

Try adding more feta cheese or a drizzle of tahini for creamy goodness.

Can I double it?

Yes! This recipe scales well, just ensure you have a large enough skillet.

How to fix a too-thick soup?

Add a splash of broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Enjoy the delightful symphony of flavors in these High-Protein Chicken & Shrimp Power Bowls! They’re creamy without cream and filled with nutrients to fuel your day. Don’t forget to rate and comment if you try it out or check out our other related recipes!

High-Protein Chicken and Shrimp Power Bowls recipe with fresh ingredients.

High-Protein Chicken & Shrimp Power Bowls

A nutritious and delicious meal featuring quinoa, chicken, shrimp, and fresh veggies, perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course, Meal Prep
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Proteins

  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Lean protein that keeps you energized and full.
  • 1 pound Shrimp Adds sweetness and tenderness.

Base

  • 1 cup Quinoa Provides protein and texture.

Veggies

  • 2 whole Bell Peppers Diced for crunch and color.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved for juicy bursts of flavor.
  • 4 cups Fresh Spinach Adds vitamins and color.

Toppings

  • 1/2 cup Toasted Almonds Provides texture and nutty flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Feta Cheese (Optional) For added creaminess and tang.

Cooking Essentials

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For cooking and richness.
  • to taste Salt Enhances flavors.
  • to taste Pepper Enhances flavors.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Gather your ingredients.
  • Rinse and cook quinoa according to package instructions.
  • Dice bell peppers and halve cherry tomatoes. Rinse spinach and set aside.

Cooking

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breast, seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in bell peppers and tomatoes and cook until the veggies are tender.

Serving

  • Start with a base of quinoa, then add the chicken and shrimp mix.
  • Top with spinach, toasted almonds, and feta cheese if desired.
  • Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and additional salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

Great for meal prep; can be stored in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This dish is customizable—substitute proteins or veggies as desired.
Keyword Chicken, healthy recipe, High-Protein, Quinoa, Shrimp

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