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:
- 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.
- Pour in the broth and salt. Bring to a rapid boil, then immediately reduce heat to low.
- Cover with a tight lid and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Toss chicken cubes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add chicken in a single layer. Sear without moving for 3-4 minutes per side until golden-brown and cooked through.
- 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.
- 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.
- Drizzle the lemon-tahini sauce over the top and serve.