Grilled Chicken, Avocado & Sweet Potato Bowls
Description
These nutrient-rich bowls are packed with lean grilled chicken, creamy avocado, roasted sweet potatoes, and a fresh mix of greens and grains. Perfect for meal prep or a hearty lunch, they offer a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Bowl:
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
1 ripe avocado, sliced
2 cups mixed greens (spinach, kale, arugula)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta (optional)
For the Dressing (Optional):
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Sweet Potatoes
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss cubed sweet potatoes in 1 tablespoon olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway until golden and tender.
Step 2: Grill Chicken
While potatoes roast, season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
Step 3: Make Dressing (Optional)
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl until emulsified.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Start with a layer of quinoa or brown rice.
Add grilled chicken slices, roasted sweet potatoes, avocado, mixed greens, tomatoes, and red onion.
Drizzle with dressing and top with feta if using.
Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Estimated based on standard ingredient quantities:
Calories: ~520 kcal
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 7g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Sugar: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 400mg
Note: Values may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare all components in advance. Store the dressing and avocado separately to keep them fresh. Assemble before serving or eat cold.
Q2: What can I use instead of chicken?
A: Great substitutes include grilled tofu, tempeh, chickpeas, or salmon for a pescatarian option.
Q3: How do I keep the avocado from browning?
A: Squeeze lemon or lime juice over the avocado slices, or slice them fresh before serving.
Q4: Is this bowl gluten-free?
A: Yes, if you use quinoa or a gluten-free grain, this recipe is gluten-free.
Q5: Can I use an air fryer for sweet potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through.