Ingredients:
- 1 cup (185g) uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups (480ml) low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp (3g) sea salt
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 tbsp (15ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp (2g) garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp (1g) smoked paprika
- 2 cups (60g) baby spinach or shredded kale
- 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup (100g) cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup (75g) red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup (60g) crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tbsp (45ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp (30ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp (15ml) maple syrup
- 1 tsp (5ml) Dijon mustard
- 1 clove (3g) garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Combine rinsed quinoa, broth, and salt in the saucepan.
- Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then immediately reduce to a low simmer.
- Cover with the lid and cook for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the grains look translucent.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff quinoa with a fork to separate the grains.
- Pat the cubed chicken breast dry with paper towels to ensure a proper sear.
- Toss chicken with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add chicken and sear until golden and cooked through.
- In a small whisk or mason jar, combine 3 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
- Assemble bowls by layering quinoa, spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Top with seared chicken, crumbled feta cheese, and drizzle with the dressing.