Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (170g) uncooked quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups (480ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) sea salt
  • 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) avocado oil
  • 1 tsp (2g) garlic powder
  • 1 tsp (2g) smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) salt
  • black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups (60g) baby spinach
  • 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup (100g) English cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup (30g) red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup (35g) fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 tbsp (45g) tahini
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) warm water
  • 1 small clove (3g) garlic, minced

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add rinsed, dry quinoa and stir for 2-3 minutes until it smells nutty and looks slightly golden.
  2. Pour in the broth and salt. Bring to a rapid boil, then immediately reduce heat to low.
  3. Cover with a tight lid and simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  5. Toss chicken cubes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  6. Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  7. Add chicken in a single layer. Sear without moving for 3-4 minutes per side until golden-brown and cooked through.
  8. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, and minced garlic. Add warm water one tablespoon at a time until a velvety consistency is reached.
  9. Assemble the bowls by layering the cooked quinoa and seared chicken at the bottom, then top with baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion, and chopped parsley.
  10. Drizzle the lemon-tahini sauce over the top and serve.