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Healthy High-Protein Shredded Chicken Meal-Prep Bowls

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A quick and easy shredded chicken bowl recipe perfect for busy weekdays, featuring tender slow-cooked chicken, colorful veggies, and wholesome grains. High in protein and customizable to fit various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more moisture)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion (optional)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • Juice of 1 lemon or lime
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta or shredded cheese (optional)
  • 1 avocado, sliced (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning blend all over the chicken breasts, coating evenly. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Place the seasoned chicken in your slow cooker. Add about 1/4 cup (60 ml) water or chicken broth to keep moist. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Alternatively, pressure cook in an Instant Pot on high for 15 minutes, then natural release.
  3. Remove the chicken from the cooker and let rest until cool enough to handle. Shred the chicken using two forks or meat claws into bite-sized pieces. (About 5-7 minutes)
  4. While the chicken cooks, prepare grains according to package instructions (15-20 minutes). Steam or roast broccoli until tender but bright green. Chop bell peppers, shred carrots, halve cherry tomatoes, and dice red onion. Toss veggies together in a large bowl. (20-25 minutes)
  5. Assemble meal prep containers by layering cooked grains, shredded chicken, and mixed vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil and fresh lemon juice, sprinkle chopped herbs on top, and add optional feta cheese. Store sliced avocado separately to avoid browning. (10 minutes)

Notes

If shredded chicken seems dry, stir in some cooking juices or olive oil. For extra flavor, add hot sauce or smoked paprika before serving. Use hand mixer on low speed to shred chicken quickly but avoid overmixing to prevent mush. Store avocado separately to avoid browning. Can freeze cooked chicken and grains (without fresh veggies or avocado) for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: shredded chicken, meal prep, high protein, healthy lunch, slow cooker, easy recipe, chicken bowls, gluten-free, dairy-free option

Find it online: https://larameals.com/healthy-high-protein-shredded-chicken-meal-prep-bowls-easy-5-step-recipe-for-busy-weekdays/